Welcome to Gainesville, home of the University of Florida Gators! If you’re heading to town to catch a game at UF, here’s what you need to know about where to stay, eat, drink, and tailgate. First, a few key facts:
- SEC team: University of Florida Gators
- Coach: Billy Napier
- Stadium name: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
- Fun fact: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is the 12th largest college football stadium, seating 88,548 people.
Where to Stay in Gainesville
There are a wide variety of options for places to stay in Gainesville, ranging from traditional bed and breakfast to comfortably appointed modern spaces.
Gainesville’s idyllic Sweetwater Branch Inn offers a selection of cozy guest rooms and cottages. Image: Sweetwater Branch Inn
Sweetwater Branch Inn
625 East University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601 • (352) 373-6760
Complete with cozy cottages and homemade breakfast, Sweetwater Branch Inn is an idyllic spot to stay in Gainesville. Plus, it sits just a few blocks from the University of Florida. (SB Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the inn’s two on-site cats, Butterscotch and Mama Cat!)
AC Hotel Gainesville
151 NW 14th Street, Gainesville, FL 32603 • (352) 792-1151
Located in Midtown, you’ll be able to hear the roar from the stadium from AC Hotel Gainesville — you’re that close to the scene! Inside your room, there are plenty of fantastic amenities to keep you comfortable, including a smart TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, and more.
Hilton University of Florida
1714 SW 34th Street, Gainesville, FL 32607 • (352) 371-3600
Hilton University of Florida is conveniently situated on the University of Florida campus and is just two miles from Ben Griffin Stadium. The hotel also boasts an outdoor pool, two on-site restaurants, and a bar.
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Where to Eat & Drink in Gainesville
If you’re looking for a bite to eat ahead of the game or perhaps items to pick up for your tailgate (including adult beverages, of course), here are some of your best bets located near campus.
Flaco’s Cuban Bakery
200 West University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601 • (352) 371-2000
You can’t be in Florida and miss the opportunity for good Cuban food. Flaco’s Cuban Bakery is the place to go in Gainesville for delicious sandwiches or fresh pastries.
Gator Beverage Inc.
1126 West University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601 • (352) 336-6128
Gator Beverage Inc. has been a premier location for wine, beer, liquor, and kegs for over 30 years. Head here for all your alcohol needs on game day.
Peach Valley Cafe
3275 SW 34th Street, Gainesville, FL 32608 • (352) 376-1834
Peach Valley Cafe is a smaller establishment, and their (spicy) chicken and waffles with blueberry butter will really hit the spot on Sunday morning.
Satchel’s Pizza
1800 NE 23rd Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32609 • (352) 335-7272
A quirky pizzeria in downtown Gainesville, Satchel’s Pizza is extra fun, thanks to the atmosphere and unique food. They cater too if you want to enjoy pizza at your tailgate!
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Bars in Gainesville
If you’re in the market for a pre- or post-game drink, here are a few hotspots to check out — equally well-suited to celebrating or drowning your sorrows.
From arcades to taprooms, Gainesville nightlife has a little something for everyone.
Salty Dog Saloon
1712 West University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32603 • (352) 375-6969
Enjoy beer from around the globe at Salty Dog Saloon. The bar also offers daily happy hour specials from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Madrina’s
9 West University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601
Visit Madrina’s for your fix of delicious, creative cocktails. Standout drinks include daiquiris, mojitos, margaritas, and more.
The Arcade Plex
6 East University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601
Located in downtown Gainesville, The Arcade Plex is home to five local hotspots — Arcade Bar North, Arcade Bar South, The Dime, The Alley, and Pop-a-Top Corner Store.
The Bull
18 SW 1st Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601 • (352) 672-6266
The Bull offers the ultimate bar experience with craft beer, wine, and live music. They offer light snacks in case you get hungry, too.
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Where to Tailgate in Gainesville
You can play your luck and look for space in a parking lot to set up a tent. You can also reserve a spot so you know you’ll have some ground to set up your tailgate on game day — even if you’re a bit late. Check out REVELxp, too, for your convenient tailgating needs. Purchase a package, and all you have to do is show up!
SB TIP: If you’re a former Gator, you can show up at Emerson Alumni Hall for a pregame tailgate with fellow alums. For more information, click HERE!
SB TIPS:
- If you can get to the stadium early enough, park in one of the small lots behind Health Shands Cancer Hospital (1515 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608).
- Sundresses are popular attire for women at the games.
- Corn on the grill is a great tailgate food and popular at UF games.
Go Gators!
Click HERE for the complete SEC City Guide!
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