9 Family-Friendly Gainesville, Florida, Attractions

iStock.com / Sean Pavone

Making memories with your kiddos is a must, and Greater Gainesville, Florida, has just what you need to make it happen. From museums and mini golf to farms and outdoor spaces, there is truly something for everyone here. Read on for a curated selection of fun, family-friendly Gainesville attractions.

1. Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention 

Named after Dr. James Robert Cade, a University of Florida professor and inventor of Gatorade, Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention was designed to inspire creativity, innovation and imagination. Visit the facility or sign up for a maker workshop, where kids ages 9 and up can engage in STEAM projects.

©Journal Communications/Chris Watkins

2. Depot Park 

Located in downtown Gainesville, this large park offers things like a unique playground, picnic tables, an incredible splash pad and a paved trail. You could spend hours here and never run out of things to do. 

3. Florida Museum of Natural History 

Take your science-loving family to the Florida Museum of Natural History on the University of Florida campus, one of the top family-friendly Gainesville attractions. From dinosaur bones to a butterfly rainforest, fossil exhibits and interactive displays, prepare to be fascinated by Florida’s bountiful past.

4. Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation 

This accredited wildlife sanctuary houses 25 species of exotic animals, all of whom have been rescued. Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation is a fabulous place to visit, learn or even volunteer, especially if you’re a family of animal lovers. 

Courtesy of Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

5. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens 

Marvel at the natural beauty found within the 68 acres of Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, which includes Victoria water lilies (on display in late summer), an herb garden and beautiful bamboo. Pack a picnic — and your camera — and stay for hours. If time is short, this top Gainesville attraction is sure to fit into your itinerary!

6. Pink Flamingo Diner 

Family fun is on the menu at the Pink Flamingo Diner.  Mouthwatering meals meet a marvelous mini-golf course. It’s the perfect mix of food and fun. Fill up on delicious eats, then take to the green and conquer the 18 holes. 

Nora Denslow

7. Mill Creek Farm 

Looking for something more serene and affordable? Mill Creek Farm, an equine sanctuary for elderly horses, is open to the public on Saturdays, and admission is two carrots. (For the horses, of course!) 

8. Bragging Rights Amusements 

Pinball and arcades and Skee-Ball, oh my! Bragging Rights is Gainesville’s go-to arcade, as it is packed to the brim with modern and classic games. Its flat fee allows for unlimited play. 

Cade Museum

9. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park 

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a haven for wildlife, including alligators, deer, wild-roaming bison, horses and almost 300 different species of birds. Traverse the 16-mile paved trail and marvel at the gorgeous views of breathtaking land from the observation tower.