Things to Do in North Central Florida in 2025

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What to do in North Central Florida

Discover the most popular places to visit in North Central Florida

University of Florida

Take a campus tour or just explore the area around University of Florida, a top college in Gainesville. Stroll along the lakeside or attend a sporting event in the area.

At the Gators home opener with 90,000 of my closest friends. A football game at Florida Field is an incredible experience. Energy not to be missed. This is probably one of the greatest stadiums in college football.

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

Catch an event at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium during your trip to Gainesville. Stroll along the lakeside or attend a sporting event in the area.

Rainbow Springs State Park

You can take time to visit Rainbow Springs State Park during your travels to Dunnellon. Stroll along this relaxing area's riverfront, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

#SpringFun Spring is the best time to grab the paddleboards and head outside in Florida! Weather is still cool and crisp in the morning and warms up nicely during the day, providing the perfect time to cool-off jump into the constant 72 degree water. The photo here is a small creek along the Rainbow River with clear blue water and a nice sandy bottom. We love finding little places like this on the larger rivers so we can hop-off and explore. It also gets you away from the crowds and opens up the possibility of finding more pieces of paradise. We like to launch from K.P. Hold

Rainbow River

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Rainbow River during your travels in Dunnellon. Stroll along this family-friendly area's riverfront, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Silver Springs State Park

Explore the great outdoors with a trip to Silver Springs State Park, a popular green space in Ocala. Discover the area's live music, or seek out its horseback riding.

My boyfriend Joe went for an early morning swim in the springs. We were camping in the park for the weekend. I took this from the jumping platform.

Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

You can take time to visit Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park during your travels to High Springs. Discover the area's restaurants or seek out the kayaking spots.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Explore the great outdoors at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, a lovely green space in Gainesville. Wander the college campus and lakeside in the area.

World Equestrian Center – Ocala

Learn about the events happening at World Equestrian Center – Ocala during your trip to Ocala. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Shands at the University of Florida

Though Shands at the University of Florida might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Gainesville while you are here.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in North Central Florida

University Heights

4/5(31 area reviews)

While University Heights isn't home to many top sights, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Hippodrome State Theatre are some notable places to visit nearby.

Historic Downtown

While there might not be top attractions in Historic Downtown, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP and Paddock Mall.

College Park

While College Park isn't home to many top sights, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Stephen C. O'Connell Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Gainesville which includes modern architecture

Downtown Gainesville

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Downtown Gainesville and surrounding area, you can visit Thomas Center and Hippodrome State Theatre.

Innovation District

While there might not be top attractions in Innovation District, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Stephen C. O'Connell Center.