As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, we are sure that summer has arrived in Gainesville, FL. Now the question is: what's the best way to cool off these hot summer days? Come and explore the gorgeous freshwater springs, parks, and recreation areas in and around Gainesville, FL. With natural springs, splash pads, excellent restaurants, bars, and breweries- North Central Florida offers exciting ways to beat the summer heat in style.
Take a Dip in a Freshwater Spring
Hotel ELEO puts you close to the beautiful natural springs in North Central Florida. Enjoy swimming, river tubing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking at Ginnie Springs - located on the Santa Fe River. Explore the crystal-clear water of Gilchrist Blue Springs and hike the nearby scenic nature trails. Rent a canoe, kayak, or inner tube and navigate the crystal-clear water of Rainbow Springs. Discover the remarkable natural beauty of Devil's Den Spring. Dive deep into this prehistoric underground spring and check out the ancient rock formations, small fish, turtles, and fossils that are as old as 33 million years. Located a short drive away from Hotel ELEO, the gorgeous Wes Skiles Peacock Springs features 33,000 feet of surveyed underwater passages and one of the longest aquatic cave systems in the continental United States.
The Blue Grotto at Depot Park
Slow down, take it easy, and embrace the beauty of Depot Park's surroundings. The Blue Grotto splash pad is located just inside the custom play area at Depot Park. Inspired by the underwater caverns and designed to encourage creativity, this playground has entertainment for everyone. With waterfalls, ground jets, water cannons, and hidden fossils, the Blue Grotto is the perfect place to have fun for children and adults alike.
Hal Brady Recreation Splash Park
Drive to the City of Alachua and cool off at the Splash Park at Hal Brady Recreation Complex. This beautiful 160-acre splash park features a large fountain and spouting cool water from the ground. Both children and adults can have fun in the fountain or simply relax on any of the park's beach chairs. Park admission for the fountain is free. You can come and play any day from Monday to Sunday, 11 AM - 6 PM. The Splash Park is open from April 1st to September 30th.
Gainesville's Great Indoors
Take a break from the sun and visit Gainesville's popular air-conditioned museums. The Harn Museum of Art at the University of Florida inspires creativity in a diverse community through enlightening art exhibitions and vibrant art collections. Visit the Florida Museum of Natural History to know more about Florida's biological diversity and cultural heritage. The Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention encourages learners of all ages to think like an inventor. Visit the museum to get unprecedented access to notable entrepreneurs, inventors, and visionaries.
Outstanding Dining Options
The best way to cool off during the hot Gainesville summer is with a cool drink and flavorful dishes. Covey Kitchen + Cocktails at Hotel ELEO is the perfect spot to sit back, sip refreshing cocktails, and enjoy creative, chef-crafted meals in a relaxing atmosphere. Stay within minutes of the popular breweries and bars in Gainesville, FL, including First Magnitude Brewing Company, Big Top Brewing Company, Cypress & Grove Brewing Company, Swamp Head Brewery, and Blackadder Brewing Company.
Here you go! Now you have a complete list of the best activities in Gainesville, FL, to enjoy this summer. Book your stay with us at Hotel ELEO. Take advantage of our Spring into Summer Package while reserving your room. Book your stay for two days and get 20% discount on our best available rate (offer valid from June 1 through August 12, 2021). Feel at home with clean and comfortable rooms with plush beds, modern amenities, our warm hospitality.