depends what you're looking for

Posted on: May 16, 2012 at 16:54:10 CT

there is a Holiday Inn literally cattycorner from UF on University Avenue and 13th street. There is also a hotel in the Reitz Union on campus for I think around $125 per night or so. Around town there is the full range of Marriot, Hilton Garden, cheaper ones, etc etc.

Bars....unfortunately Gainesville has had almost a complete turnover of bars since I graduated in 1994. The Swamp Restaurant and bar right across University Avenue from UF is always popular and packed. Most of the bars are downtown....a lot of which used to be dangerous and a dump when I went to UF but which has now been gentrified and is safe and nice. I couldn't tell you which bars are the best ones anymore though.

Jax and Orlando and St. Augustine are all within 2 hours drive so you don't have to stay in Gainesville. You could easily rent a hotel room or stay in a bed and breakfast on the beach and then drive to Gainesville for the game.

PS....if you drive the 301 from Jax/St Augustine to Gainesville DO NOT speed in Lawtey or Waldo. Both are notorious little speed traps. I hope this helps.