Life in the Swamp.
A local guide to Gainesville — from Gator football to freshwater springs.
The Swamp
Home of the Gators
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium — known simply as "The Swamp" — is one of college football's most electric venues. Our homes are within 2 miles of the stadium, meaning game-day walk-throughs and zero rideshare surge pricing. Florida Field has hosted some of the most memorable moments in college football history, and being here for a home game is an experience unlike any other.
Nature
Springs, sinks & cypress swamps
North-central Florida is ground zero for freshwater springs. Ginnie Springs, Ichetucknee Springs, and Devil's Den are all within an hour, offering crystal-clear 68°F water year-round. Closer in, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park sits just south of town — a 21,000-acre savanna where wild horses and American bison roam. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens and La Chua Trail round out the local nature scene.
Food & Drink
A college town that actually eats well
Gainesville's food scene punches above its weight. Top picks: Emiliano's for upscale Latin-inspired dining, Mi Apa Latin Café for Cuban sandwiches, Crane Ramen for the late-night bowl, and Civilization for cocktails. Midtown is your best walkable bar strip — and it's minutes from both properties. The farmers market runs Saturday mornings at Bo Diddley Plaza downtown.
University of Florida
One of the great campuses in the South
UF's main campus is beautiful — oak-canopied brick walkways, the Plaza of the Americas, Lake Alice and its resident alligators, and the Florida Museum of Natural History. Whether you're dropping off a student, attending a graduation, or just exploring, it's worth a walk. The campus is about a mile from The Hammock.
Live Music
Gainesville made punk rock famous
Tom Petty grew up here. Less Than Jake and Against Me! called Gainesville home. The city's music DNA runs deep, and venues like High Dive, Loosey's, and The Atlantic host live music most nights of the week across genres. Check the schedule before you arrive — you might catch something memorable.
Getting Around
Easy to navigate
Both properties are in northwest Gainesville, a 5-10 minute drive from essentially everything worth visiting. UF campus and The Swamp are close. Downtown and Midtown are close. I-75 (your connection to Jacksonville, Tampa, or Ocala) is about 10 minutes. Rideshares are reliable, but most guests find a car convenient for day trips to springs.
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