Gainesville, Florida, is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor recreationalists. The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail offers 16 miles of hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Paynes Prairie is a bird-watcher's paradise, with more than 271 species of birds, including Sandhill Cranes during their fall migration; visitors will also see alligators, bald eagles, and bison. Tourists can explore Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park and its 500-foot-wide sinkhole and waterfalls. The historic Haile Homestead at Kanapaha Plantation is one Gainesville attraction that shouldn't be missed; the antebellum house is covered with more than 12,500 words written by the original owners.

Gainesville Regional Airport is conveniently located just 15 minutes from downtown.