welcome to GAINESVILLE

Enjoy world-class museums, performing arts, and live music. Explore 8 state parks with more than 100 miles of trails for biking, birding, and hiking, or cool off in crystal-blue freshwater springs. When you’re done with your day, kick back at a craft brewery and savor innovative cuisine and specialty cocktails at inspired local restaurants.

where nature and culture meet

information provided by stpete.org

Located in North Central Florida, Gainesville and Alachua County is a unique family-friendly, university community, well known for its exciting blend of cultural, historic and natural attractions as well as fine arts and sporting events. Home of the University of Florida “Gators”, the area draws business and convention travelers from throughout the world to state-of-the-art research, medical and conference facilities. Careful preservation and use of natural and manmade resources help preserve for the leisure visitors the County’s unique eco-systems and cultural assets. Tourism is an important contributor to economic development in Alachua County and is woven into the fabric of the community in a way that enhances the residents’ quality of life and the visitor experience.

explore THE BEST GAINESVILLE neighborhoods

b1d08cfbdedd170ceb44348ef98bf666l-m2924335953od-w480_h360_x2.jpg

DUCKPOND

If you want to be transported back in time to see what Gainesville might have been like before it became a popular and modern area, then move to the quiet neighborhood of Duckpond. Deemed the first neighborhood of Gainesville, Duckpond is a vibrant community that is recognized for its distinct character and charm. Thought to be one of the most “Defining Neighborhoods of Gainesville,” the residential area of Duckpond can be found on the National Register of Historic Places.

HAILE PLANTATION

With construction starting in the 1970s, this urban planned community is a new development located in the southwest corner of the city. Featuring 2,600 homes, many residents are flocking to this neighborhood for its family-friendly residential living. Featuring walking and biking trails, an equestrian center, and multiple parks, those that live in Halie Plantation like to live an active and healthy lifestyle.

SUBURBAN HEIGHTS

With a small population of 1,500 people, enjoy peaceful living in this suburban neighborhood that was built in the late 1960s. With an average age of 59 years, residents like to flock to this community for retirement. Located close to Interstate 75, have easy access to the top healthcare facilities such as The UF Health Shands Hospital and the North Florida Regional Medical Center. Only steps away from popular shops and restaurants indulge in all that Gainesville has to offer in a more relaxed environment. For those living in the neighborhood with school-aged children, Suburban Heights feeds into Little Elementary School, Fort Clarke Middle School, and Buchholz High School. Brentwood School is also a popular private school option. In our opinion - Suburban Heights is one of the best neighborhoods in Gainesville, Florida.

UNIVERSITY PARK

This historic neighborhood is home to many private homes with Mediterranean or Spanish-style architecture. Within its boundaries are 146 historic buildings, but history isn’t the only draw. Fans of the outdoors head to the park from which this neighborhood takes its name to enjoy royal palms, oaks, and lush flower gardens. Booker Creek runs through the area, offering more natural beauty.

PLEASANT STREET HISTORIC DISTRICT

Packed with office high rises, including the tallest in town, One Progress Plaza, downtown St. Petersburg is home to the Tampa Bay Times, The Mahaffey Theater complex, and the Morean Arts Center. There are also dozens of art galleries and the renowned Haslam's Bookstore.

HIGHLAND COURT MANOR

Just west of downtown St Petersburg, the Grand Central District is a bustling entertainment enclave packed with galleries, restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. Along Central Avenue, there’s a wide range of cafes, coffee shops, and stores. Jannus Live is an outdoor music venue that takes full advantage of Florida’s warm climate. The American Stage Theatre Company is the spot for live regional productions of drama and musicals.

HAZEL HEIGHTS

A mix of apartments, triplexes, single-family homes, and condominiums, this neighborhood is also home to shops, parks, a variety of restaurants, galleries, and bars. Thai, Cuban and Austrian cuisine are among the options for dining. It’s adjacent to the Mangrove Bay Golf Course, a public par-72 course, and the 9-hole Cypress Links, making it a prime spot for duffers.