20 Attractions to Explore Near Gainesville Raceway

The Lubee Bat Conservancy is devoted to protecting bats and their habitats, both domestically and internationally. The conservancy has significantly grown over the decades, now containing more than 40 acres of lush tropical forest and meadows. The site serves as a research lab and educational center that educates visitors about the importance of bats to our ecosystem. Through rehabilitating injured and orphaned bats as well as breeding endangered species, they strive to protect these animals.

Newnans Lake State Forest is an outdoor recreation paradise. Known for its gorgeous scenery, excellent swimming and boating opportunities, and dense native forests, it provides a wide variety of experiences that can be enjoyed year round. The lake's varied wildlife attracts dedicated viewers and birdwatchers alike while its thick forests offer the perfect location to embark on a guided hike or find ample places to set up camp. Additionally, the park offers access to nearby springs.

Morningside Nature Center occupies a 416-acre park. Along with the farm and nature centre, Morningside Nature Center's hiking trails explore sandhill ecosystems, pine Flatwoods, bayhead swamps, and cypress domes.

Alfred A. Ring Park is a 77-acre paradise of natural beauty featuring open fields, grassy meadows, large shade trees, and a 5-acre lake. Visitors to the park can partake in activities such as canoeing on the lake, walking/cycling along 1.7 miles of trails within the park, fishing for largemouth bass & bluegill, or birdwatching within the diverse environment. Other facilities include picnic areas, playgrounds with swings and slides, a public restroom and an outdoor theater stage area.

Possum Creek Park is a beloved outdoor escape for residents of Gainesville and beyond. With over 400 acres of wilderness and wetlands to explore, the park admirably serves those looking to take advantage of the great outdoors. There are two large lakes that allow boaters to enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. If simply walking or jogging is more your speed there are boardwalks and nature trails on offer as well.

San Felasco Park is a 1,169-acre paradise of winding trails, forests and canopies of trees for hikers and bikers. Throughout the park are sinkholes, creeks and springs that attract wildlife like bobcats, hawks and owls. For campers there are primitive campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and restrooms nearby. Whether you're into adventurous biking or picnicking and camping in one of twenty individual sites near level terrain while enjoying the spectacular scenery of nature at its finest.

Matheson History Museum building, formerly an American Legion hall, opened in 1994 as a museum

James Douglas Matheson and Augusta Florida Steele Matheson, the daughter of Florida pioneer Augustus Steele, who founded Hillsborough County and Cedar Key, lived at Matheson House.

Lake Alto, is breathtaking for both locals and tourists alike with its calm, crystal-clear water surrounded by lush vegetation. It is a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. It also makes for a nice peaceful walk or jog around the shore. Those looking to take advantage of the natural beauty can take part in boating tours available from local businesses which give access to smaller lakes connected to Lake Alto as well as some notable landmarks located on its shore.

Gainesville, is an amazing place to live or visit. Located near some of the nation's best beaches, It offers an array of activities and attractions. The University of Florida is located here, allowing students access to world-class education. Nature lovers can take advantage of the beautiful springs nearby while adventurers can take part in numerous outdoor activities like camping and kayaking. It also has a well-developed arts scene with venues ranging from small galleries to large theaters.

Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park is only 71 acres (29 ha), but three distinct ecological environments exist in the park, depending on the amount of sun, fire, and water it receives.

Depot park is a vibrant and colorful place to explore. Located in the heart of Gainesville, the park offers something for everyone – from scenic jogging trails and picnic areas to kayaking on a sparkling lake. It also features an amphitheater used for outdoor concerts and a “Sprayground” with interactive water features perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. Depot Park encourages exploration, exercise, learning and connection while respecting nature preservation.

The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention is named after Dr. Robert Cade, the lead inventor of Gatorade, and reflects his philosophy of combining science and art in a way that is "purposeful creativity".

Newnans Lake is a gorgeous natural paradise. Its crystal-clear waters span 1520 acres, with 13 miles of shoreline fringed by lush vegetation and flourishing wildlife. Home to bass, bream and catfish, it's the perfect spot for keen anglers. Within this picturesque setting lies Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Poised on the edge of the lake, visitors can enjoy a range of activities from bird watching to horseback trails. Primitive campsites are also available.

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, is one of the most iconic stadiums in the University of Florida's athletic history. Affectionately known as “The Swamp” by locals and fans alike, this stadium has been home to countless thrilling football games over the years. The stadium has hosted several notable alumni from the University of Florida such as Steve Spurrier, Emmitt Smith, Percy Harvin and Tim Tebow. Not only is it a popular spot for Gators football games, it also hosts various special events.

Westside Park is a great outdoor escape for anyone looking to explore the beauty of nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy; whether it's kayaking or biking on one of the many trails, fishing off the dock, playing sports such as football and frisbee in dedicated fields, or simply relaxing under a shady tree amidst the park's lush greenery, also With its playgrounds, picnic areas, sand volleyball court and gazebo.

Loblolly Woods Nature Park covers 48 acres of lush nature preserve, providing a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Featuring a variety of walking trails and boardwalks, a scenic lake with observation deck, the park is popular with both locals and tourists alike. Visitors have the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat - or take part in educational programs such as bird-watching or native plant walks.

Sweetwater Preserve is a unique conservation area spanning over 6,800 acres of land, the preserve includes of multiple habitats including pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, sinkholes and sandhills. It is home to an abundance of wildlife species like wild turkeys, sandhill cranes, and owls that benefit from the diversity of habitats found here. Sweetwater Preserve also features trails for exploration and can be used for fishing, hiking, nature viewing and camping.

Wilmot Gardens is a perfect place for visitors to relax and appreciate nature. Situated on the banks of the Santa Fe River, the lush grounds of Wilmot Gardens boast a variety of native trees and plants, including magnolias, camellias, azaleas, and dogwoods. This peaceful spot offers the opportunity to observe wild animals like whitetail deer, turkeys, and birds in their natural habitats. Stroll along walking trails or take a guided canoe tour along the river to appreciate its unique beauty.

UF Bat Houses, serves as a haven for over 400 bats from 13 different species. Established by the University of Florida in the summer of 1991 and supported by volunteers, the site is now a successful example of conservation. A nightly monitoring program is responsible for data collection such as birth rates, death rates and population size. UF Bat Houses work to protect and conserve these species for generations to come by providing shelter, food and resources along with professional research.