15 Outdoors- Other to Explore in Alachua County

Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History is a stunning and immersive experience. This indoor rainforest habitat features hundreds of wild butterflies in free flight around lush vegetation grown to simulate their natural environment. A paved walkway allows visitors an up-close viewinng experience with the colorful and exotic butterflies. Along with a multitude of species of butterflies, visitors can also find vibrant birds and frogs within this lush ecosystem.

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.

Gainesville Raceway, is one of the best drag racing tracks in the United States. With a 1/4 mile E.T. Drag Strip and a championship road course circuit, it offers a thrilling experience for passionate racers looking to put their driving skills to the test. The 3,000-foot all-concrete drag strip has seen some of the greatest drivers collect wins since its opening in 1969 and mesmerizing crowds along the way. It's also been home to countless NHRA national events.

Lake Wauburg provides an enjoyable outdoor recreational area for the University of Florida community and other visitors. The crystal clear waters are great for swimming, fishing, and boating. There are five miles of trails along shoreline with ample wildlife like raccoons and turtles. Visitors can enjoy canoe rentals, beach volleyball courts, disc golf, picnic shelters, a playground, as well as basketball and tennis courts. It also offers musical events throughout the year.

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.

The Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area is a remarkable example of wildlife conservation and preservation. Spanning over 4436 acres, It is home to a variety of habitats that support various species of animals including alligators, deer, turkeys, quail. Within the area are two nature trails, with interpretive kiosks along each trail that provide information on native plants and how they serve as habitat for the creatures that live there. Hunting is also allowed in specific parts of the area.

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.

Paynes Prairie, is an incredibly unique and lush landscape. Spanning 18 sq miles, the prairie harbours a variety of plants and wildlife and has rare bird sightings. As it offers fantastic wildlife-spotting opportunities, Paynes Prairie boasts activities such as canoeing, boating, camping and much more. Indeed, avid hikers can take on the South Rim’s 22-mile long trail with its 10 overlooks. Home to gators and other reptilian lifeforms, exploring the area is truly a good experience.

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.

Prairie Creek Preserve is a beautiful and diverse swath of land, which covers more than 8,000 acres and is home to a variety of habitats ranging from cypress swamps to wet prairies and mesic flats. Among the many wildlife that call this area home are alligators, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and threatened species like the gopher tortoise. It offers visitors plenty for exploration with trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Fishing is also allowed within certain parts.

Retirement Home for Horses Inc Alachua Fla, works to provide a comfortable and safe lifespan for horses once they retire from their working lives. They rescue horses that are mistreated or unwanted, give them veterinary care, rehabilitate any behavioral issues and socialize them until they can find loving owners. Retirement Home for Horses Inc Alachua Fla provides horse owners with support such as seminars on horse ownership and an auction for those wishing to adopt these retired horses.

San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park is a 6,500-acre expanse of conservation lands. This park offers visitors the opportunity to explore an array of ecosystems, from the rolling hills of sandhill to the shady hammocks and wet prairies. On hikes by way of 14 miles of trails, guests can see live oak trees draped in Spanish moss as well as diverse wildlife including foxes, wild turkeys and most notably, hundreds of species of birds. The park also provides canoe and kayak rentals.

Santa Fe Lake Park is the perfect sunny escape for locals and visitors alike. The park boasts abundant natural beauty that can be enjoyed from any of the numerous hiking trails, hills, and boardwalks throughout the area. Taking a leisurely stroll around the lake itself is a great way to relax and take it all in, with great fishing spots along the way. A playground provides plenty of fun for kids and families, while birdwatchers are sure to spot a variety of feathered friends.

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.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park in Alachua County provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of wetlands and observe wildlife in action. This park is renowned for its array of plants and animals, including rare species of birds, turtles, dragonflies, frogs, and other aquatic life. From the observation tower, you can take in panoramic views of the wetlands and spot various species from all over the world. It also offers plenty of activities for children and families.