Gainesville has a population of over 125,000 residents that enjoy the beautiful scenery and a warm tropical climate. Florida receives breezes from both the Gulf and the Atlantic.North Central Florida's semi-tropical winter climate can only be described as delightful.

Easy US Interstate-75 access allows exploration of many of the nearby natural attractions from cycling, canoeing, hiking, camping, bird-watching and fishing to tubing down the famous Suwannee River.

Of the 965 square miles in Alachua County, more than one in 20 is submerged in water. Crystal clear, fresh water springs are located throughout the region, including Blue Springs, Ginnie Springs, Ichetucknee Springs, Manatee Springs, Poe Springs, Madison Blue Springs, Peacock Springs, Rainbow Springs, Hart Springs, and White Springs.

The University of Florida adds culture to the area as well as learning opportuntities. Gainesville offers a diversity of activities and attractions. including art museums, galleries, crawfish festivals shopping, sports, nightlife and other fun opportunities. There are many unspoiled wilderness parks of an exquisite sub-tropical region.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens features 62 acres of woodlands, meadows, vineries and specialized gardens, including the southeast’s largest herb garden, Florida’s largest bamboo collection, a palm hammock, water lily ponds, a fern grotto and a sunken garden.

Paynes Prairie State Preserve, a 20,000-acre wildlife sanctuary located 10 miles south of Gainesville, is known for its outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities, including bison, cracker house and cattle, alligators, sandhill cranes, and more than 270 bird species. The preserve offers more than 30 miles of trails through different ecosystems for equestrians, hikers and bicyclists.

Winter visitors will enjoy the musical diversity of Gainesville. The Gainesville Chamber Orchestra, the Gainesville Civic Chorus, the Gainesville Community Band, the University Marching and Concert Bands and the University Symphony Orchestra frequently perform concerts. Jazz concerts are sponsored by the Gainesville Friends of Jazz and Blues. Professional performers of all musical styles are regular visitors to the University of Florida campus throughout the year.

The Gainesville area has nine golf courses and practice facilities to challenge the most avid golfer. Fishing is great including easy access to six fresh water lakes.