VisitGainesville

You're "in-store" for An Incredible, Even Innovative Dining Experience at Gainesville's New Warehouse Restaurant

2010-08-04T06:02:00.000-07:00

Farm-to-table is the newfangled culinary label that prepares the diner's palate for a fresh from the field experience. The Warehouse, one of Gainesville's newest restaurants is not only tantalizing our taste buds with fresh and yummy but is kicking this "f-to-t" term up a notch (sorry, Emeril) by going from "Tractor to Table."

Literally, The Warehouse, located in the up and coming Downtown Main Street and Depot Road area is a revitalized well, warehouse, complete with towering loft-like ceilings which was a perfect location for its original inhabitants 70 years...International Harvester Tractors. The last 30 years it was home to an import auto parts store!

Now this location has quite successfully traded selling spark plugs and carburetors to dishing up sauteed spinach and crabmeat! Whether selecting from their lunch or dinner menu, each seemingly traditional dish offers a new, delectable twist. Take the Warehouse Steak Fries for instance. In their most basic form they are lightly, cripsy, slightly salty fried Yukon gold potatoes. But that's where the basic stops --- okay, halts. These delightful potato planks only get better when dipped in your choice of Goat cheese fondue (velvety, creamy, yummy), roasted pepper ketchup (zippy and not your everyday burger condiment), mushroom fondue (earthy and delighful) or roasted garlic aioli (rich, Italian goodness in a bowl). Really, there are no bad choices here; it's just that actually making a choose is truly the challendge. But here's a tip -- ask your server if perhaps you can have more than one ramekin of heavenly dipping sauce which was most assuredly prepared by gifted foodie gods!

And a dining experience wouldn't be complete until you sink your teeth into the heavenly puffs of the apricot beignets. The vanilla creme anglaise is literally the "icing on the cake!" so to speak.

Since opening in May, The Warehouse has quickly developed a strong cult following. And with the literal roadblocks due to the Depot Road corridor construction and revamp, not to mention those figurative road blocks associated with the opening of any business (especially a restaurant), owner Richard Yon and his dedicated team, are "plowing" the way to delight many a diner indeed.

Bottom line, don't be deterred by the detours..they're temporary...the wonderful experience of dining at The Warehouse may just last you a lifetime!

Read what other lucky Warehouse diners hav e said at Yelp as well as UrbanSpoon posts

Devilishly Fun - Devil's Milhopper State Park Delivers A Great Gainesville Adventure!

2010-08-03T10:19:00.000-07:00

Just a hop, skip, and jump away from several of Gainesville's upscale neighborhoods, are 232-steps that wind down into the devil's torture pit! Oh, well, that's according to old Florida Indian folklore and this devil's den of doom is actually a conical shaped sinkhole and the centerpiece of Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park -- one of Gainesville's six Florida State parks.

It was the plethora of animal bones that the native Floridians regularly found at the bottom of this deep bowl that lead them to conclude the Millhopper was the ultimate resting place for the devil's victims. Now it's just a great (and safe) place to visit.

Trekking down 120-feet on the winding, but ever so sturdy, wooden boardwalk is an exhilarating "only in Florida" adventure indeed. If you opt to 'trek' in summer here's the good news: your round trip descent will make for a great calorie busting workout especially if you warm-up with a hike around this State Park's 67-acre gentle hiking trails.

Your reward is that at the bottom, it's several degrees cooler. Almost cave, plus canopy-like, cooler. It's also cooler in the awe-inspiring kind of way. With trickling waterfalls and a labyrinth of green leafy vines, it's as if you've been magically transported to a exotic Tahitian island. But caveat hiker...if your exercise regime is well, a bit dusty, step slowly, take cool water and apply plenty of bug repellent.

So do hop, go ahead skip and jump at the chance to see the Sunshine State's only geological state park and one of Gainesville's natural treasures.

Eating Local Made Easy

2010-07-14T06:20:00.000-07:00

Ironically, some of the best consumers of Gainesville's local produce are actually vacationers staying at one of the area's seven historic Bed and Breakfasts. Here's a great example of how to sample our incredible (and delectable) produce. The Grady House's veggie frittata contains plenty of ingredients that can be found in any of Alachua County's local farmers markets. The recipe goes as follows:

4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup diced bread
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (evoo)
1 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped red pepper
1/2 cup chopped yellow pepper
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1 small crookneck squash, chopped
1/2 lb. fresh baby spinah
1/2 lb. baby bella mushrooms
8 large eggs
2 cups half & half or whole milk
2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan
1/4 cup grated romano
salt and pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 pint grape tomatoes, cut in half

Preheat oven to 350 F degrees. In an baking dish, toss together two of the minced cloves of garlic, 2 tbsp evoo and the bread. Bake in oven, stirring once, for 8-10 minutes, or until bread is lightly toasted. Set aside.

In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp of evoo and the onion, peppers and squash. Saute the veggies for 6-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

In same skillet, saute two garlic cloves in 1 tbsp of evoo. Add mushroms and saute for 6-7 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper.

Place bread cubes into a lightly oiled 9" x 13" inch baking dish. Pour veggie mixture on top. Place spinach leaves over top of veggie layer. Pour mushrooms over top of spinach leaves. Spread cheeses on top of everything.

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Pour egg mixture over cheese layer. Place halved grape tomatoes on top. Bake at 350 degrees until set, about 40-50 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Music Lover? Gator Fan? Start Bidding!

2010-07-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

A "Gatorized" Steinway Piano Model M is available for bidding by the University of Florida College of Fine Arts. This custom-decorated piano also comes with player attachment that plays all your favorite gator songs: the alma mater, "We are the Boys of Old Florida," and "Go Gators." The bidding for this piece of UF memorabilia starts at $25,000--a great deal considering the piano itself is worth about $55,000, the player $17,000, and the orange and blue artwork $18,000. The auction for this prize item is open until Nov. 1, 2010. Check out the video before placing your bid. Money from the bid will go to help UF's College of Fine Arts.

Who Let the Dogs Out? Check Out Gainesville's Pet-Friendly Lodging and Activities!

2010-06-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

Gainesville is the perfect vacation spot--for you and your dog(s). The pet-friendly lodging and attractions mean you don't have to leave that extra-special canine at home while you let loose. For the month of July, Magnolia Plantation Bed and Breakfast Inn is giving 10% off for guests who bring their dogs (only for those staying in cottages). Camellia Rose Inn, Sweetwater Branch Inn, and the Herlong Mansion also allow pets as guests.
You have your dog in Gainesville, now what? Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, Paynes Prairie Reserve State Park, the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail and Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park all offer outlets where you and your dog can play and explore. Of course, there is always Dog Wood Dog Park as well.
We know how much your furry friends mean to you, so we offer a vacation experience you can enjoy with them.

Nothing Says American Like Free Concerts and Fireworks

2010-06-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

Join other patriotic Gainesville-ians on Fourth of July weekend for free activities! Listen to the All American Song Fest for Free Fridays downtown on July 2. There will be various artists playing songs that celebrate America's past to present. The concert will take place from 8-10 p.m. in the Bo Diddley Community Plaza.

For fireworks and another free concert, head out to UF's Flavet Field on Saturday, July 3, for Fanfare and Fireworks. The concert will start at 7 p.m. with performances by 6th Street Rhythm and Blues Review, Hartley Leacock and the Collective Format Band and the Gainesville Community Band. The firework show will begin around 9:40 p.m.

The city of Alachua will once again host its "Largest Small Town Firework Display in America" on July 4 at the Hal Brady Recreation Complex. The annual event draws around 20,000 people per year and provides them with activities for kids such as a petting zoo, bounce house and water slide. For adults, there is live music, dancing and bingo. Don't miss out on any of the opportunities to celebrate 2010's Independence Day in Alachua County!

Whet Your Appetite Wednesday

2010-06-16T08:14:00.000-07:00

The featured recipe this week is: Cinnamon Raisin Souffle from the Camellia Rose Inn. It was chosen because of its inspiring list of ingredients to this already-hungry author. They are:

1 large or 1 1/2 loaves of cinnamon raisin bread (chopped enough to fill a 9'x13" baking pan)
12 oz. cream cheese, softened
6 oz. butter, softened
3/4 cup maple syrup, divided
10 eggs
3 cups half & half
cinnamon sugar
more maple syrup

Place chopped bread into well-buttered 9"x13" glass baking dish. With a mixer, whisk cream cheese, butter and 1/4 cup maple syrup until smooth. Spread on top of bread, leaving some openings to pour egg through mixture. Beat eggs, half & half and 1/2 cup maple syrup. Pour over bread. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Cover and leave overnight in the refrigerator. Uncover and bake 60 minutes (covered with foil for last 10 minutes to keep from burning) at 350 degrees. Cut into squares and sprinkle with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup. Serves 8-10.

This is a great treat for the family on Father's Day which is coming up Sunday, June 20. Make sure Dad gets the biggest piece with breakfast in bed. For more mouthwatering recipes, visit the Camellia Rose Inn or better yet...make a reservation for Dad at this charming Bed & Breakfast -- one of Gainesville's seven historic inns!

Set Your Mouth on Fire at the Hot Pepper Festival

2010-06-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

Spice up your weekend at Harmony Gardens with its annual Hot Pepper Festival! It takes place at the plant nursery at 10100 NW 13th St. on Saturday and Sunday, June 19 and 20. The festival celebrates all things hot from peppers to spicy icecream. This is a must-do for the seekers of all things spicy. Once your mouth is sweltering, it's time to enjoy the music and other fun activities at the festival. For those interested in a challenge, there is a chance to enter a Hot Concoction Contest on Saturday by 1 p.m. The Hot Pepper Festival is put on by Harmony Gardens and Bike Route.

Shear Madness! A Cut Above the Rest

2010-06-08T06:16:00.000-07:00

Shear Madness opened at the Hippodrome on June 4 where hair stylists from all over Gainesville provided attendees of the show with blow-outs and updos. For the rest of the summer, participating salons will compete to see who can send the most clients to the show. Those involved are: Absolutely Hair Styling, Charisma for Hair, Elan Hair Studio, The Hair Groomers, Jacquelyn Totura Hair Salon, Mode Salon, Nice Cut!, Scissors, 6th Street Station, Tecnicolors Salon, The Salon @ 716, The Strand, Thornebrrok Hair Design, Total Image Salon and Veda Salon & Spa.

Shear Madness is a comedic murder mystery that will be different every night it plays. It calls on the audience to solve the crime, making it a mix of comedy, mystery and improvisation. It also incorporates current events, celebrities and gossip into the script. Each show will be different and fresh, keeping you guessing no matter how many times you attend a production of Shear Madness this summer.

How Can You Be a Lawmaker? Act It Out!

2010-05-17T10:22:00.000-07:00

Popular belief is that the theatre exists for entertainment purposes. It can comment on society and possibly raise awareness of issues, but its main purpose is to provide amusement and distraction from daily life. However, the Hippodrome State Theatre is hosting a two-day workshop by Julian Boal, director and innovator of the Theatre for Social Change. He will be using techniques from the Theatre of the Oppressed, specifically Forum and Legislative Theatre. The workshop will take place Wednesday, May 19 from 1-6 p.m. and Thursday, May 20 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Forum Theatre presents a scene where the protagonist encounters a situation of oppression in which he or she fails. Next, the "spect-actors" in the audience help recreate the scene with suggestions on how to remedy the situation using possibilities that exist outside the theatre. Legislative Theatre tries to make citizen desires into actual laws. After a Forum session, the group creates a mock-Chamber and perform a ritual of lawmaking. At the end, suggestions are collected and pressure is put on the true lawmakers to put legislation into action. It creates an environment where actors (and nonactors are welcome to join) can come up with real solutions to real problems on a local level. The workshop is open to everybody, but there is only space for 30 participants. The cost for both days of the workshop is $60. There is a final performance on Thursday at 6:30 that is free and open to the public.

Gainesville's Green Goddess is Spreading the Word

2010-05-11T07:16:00.000-07:00

Trish Riley, Gainesville's Green Goddess, was recently named Audubon's Earth Day Action Hero. Also, she won a national award for her book on green living. This is the same person who publishes the Web site GoGreenNation and organized the First Annual Gainesville Environmental Film and Arts Festival in April. Now she is going to be the keynote speaker at the 2010 Seminole County Tourism Celebration Luncheon next week. Trish is a true representation of what it means to live green and a great example of the environmentally-aware movement in Gainesville. Here is a round of applause to the Earth Day Action Hero--our very own Captain Planet.

Get to Know Gainesville

2010-05-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

Gainesville is celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week 2010 starting Saturday, May 8 until Sunday, May 16. It's kicking off with the 18th Annual Bed-Making Contest on Monday, May 9 at the Paramount Plaza Hotel from 9 a.m. to noon. What does NTTW mean for visitors and residents alike? Free admission to attractions! Many places are offering free admission with the purchase of one regular priced admission one day of the week:

Sunday, May 9: Haile Homestead at Kanapaha Plantation
Monday, May 10: FL Museum of Natural History
Thursday, May 13: Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

On Wednesday, May 12 Poe Springs is offering $5 off canoe and kayak rentals. On Friday, May 14, the "Let's Go Downtown Free Fridays" Plaza Series presents Hudost, an alternative/folk rock band that will play downtown in Bo Diddley Community Plaza from 8-10 p.m. "Free Fridays" begin on Friday, May 7 and last until Oct. 15. Go see what Gainesville has to offer this week by taking advantage of the great deals our attractions are giving.

Get Cookin' With Gainesville Grub

2010-05-03T07:19:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Eat Local Challenge is here. It kicked off on May 1 and will last the entire month. What does this mean for those participating? The goal is to eat food that has been locally grown in every meal--it can be every ingredient or just one piece in each dish of the day. You can also eat at locally owned restaurants that serve locally grown food. A few examples include:

The only catch: this isn't much of a challenge. Gainesville is teeming with opportunities to "eat local." There are farmers markets every day of the week (except Tuesday) in various locations throughout Alachua County. On May 30, the "challenge" will celebrate a successful month with a Family Kickball Game 4-6 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.

See What's "Bugging" Us at the FL Museum of Natural History

2010-04-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like a fly-on-the-wall? You might want to rethink that after visiting the Florida Museum of Natural History's newest exhibit, CSI: Crime Scene Insects. It will be available May 8 to June 17 and give visitors the opportunity to learn how bugs like flies, maggots and beetles help in solving crimes every day. It's based on the fact that insects play an important role in decomposition.
For the particularly steel-stomached and morbidly curious, there will be a chance to view five stages of decomposition in morgue drawers that will hold models of cadavers in each stage. Then see if you can pick out the same details as someone investigating the actual crime.
**Suggestion: Don't go out for pizza after eyeing the decaying corpses**

You can also see the stages of a fly's life at "The Fly Wheel." It also gives information on how a forensic entomologist investigates cases and the tools they use.

Just when you thought it couldn't get more repulsive, there will be the filthy opportunity on opening day to paint a picture using maggots. Gross.

By the way, the National Science Education Standards deem this exhibit suitable for children 8 years and older.

Fruit, Vegetable, or Zucchini Festival?!

2010-04-21T06:47:00.000-07:00

Come see if you can carve the kookiest courgette (that's what they call zucchini across the pond) at the 26th Annual Windsor Zucchini Festival! It will be Saturday, May 8 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Windsor which is located seven miles east of Gainesville on CR 234 between SR 20 (Hawthorne Road) and SR 26 (Orange Heights Road).

You'll be surprised at how many zucchini related activities there are:

Zucchinithon Fun Run
Duke of Zuke and Zuqueenie Pageant
Arts and Crafts Vendor Show
Cook-a-Zuke Contest
Zucchini Carving Contest (judging categories include biggest and ugliest)
Hay Rides
Live bands

Let's not forget this is a festival about food, so there will be plenty of eating to be done. Tease your tastebuds with fried zucchini (we are in the South), zucchini ice cream and other goodies. Also, proceeds from the event go to help the local fire station.

Interesting facts about zucchini:

Normally labeled as a vegetable, it is actually an immature fruit.
It is low in calories, but a good source of potassium, vitamin A and folate.
It comes from a flower (below).

First Annual Garden Bike Tour of Gainesville

2010-04-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

Start stretching those quads and get ready for some biking and beauty! On Saturday, April 24 the Citizens Co-op will be leading its First Annual Garden Bike Tour of Gainesville. It will start at the Downtown Plaza and end at Citizens Co-op new location on 435 S. Main St.

The tour takes you on a 14-mile loop of public and private gardens throughout Gainesville. After the ride, there is a music festival from 5-11 p.m. at the store with live music, beer and local food.

Registration for the event is $20 for adults, $15 for students and free for kids (no age specified). This can be done prior to the event or between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. in the Bo Diddley Plaza on Saturday. Registered participants will receive a bike tour t-shirt, tour map, refreshments and free entrance to the music festival. It's $10 for those only interested in attending the festival.

Gator Gymnastics Flips to Host NCAA Champs in Gainesville

2010-04-07T12:03:00.000-07:00

You'll get more "spring" than you bargained for this season. University of Florida gets to host the 2010 National Collegiate Women's Gymnastic Championship for the first time in over a dozen years. The event will take place at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center on April 22-24. The schedule goes as follows:

Thursday, April 22

Semifinal #1 @ 1 p.m.

Semifinal #2 @ 7 p.m.

Friday, April 23

Super Six Teams Finals 6 p.m.

Saturday, April 24

Autograph Session 4-5:30 p.m.

Individual Event Finals @ 6 p.m.

Tickets for the event must be bought through ticketmaster for all three days; tickets for separate days are not available yet. Adult tickets are $45 to $55 and children and seniors are $30.

You can also attend the autograph session with the participating gymnasts between fan gates one and two on Saturday.

As of Monday, April 5 UF is ranked fourth in the nation. To see where the Gators train, click here.

Green Garden=Green Thumb

2010-04-06T06:47:00.000-07:00

Get a greener garden this year--and I'm not talking about having the greenest grass in the neighborhood. Get all the makings of a true Florida paradise next weekend at the Spring Native Plant Sale. The Morningside Nature Center will host the sale on Saturday, April 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There will be plant experts there who will help you pick those perfect additions to your yard. The great thing about these horticultural treasures is the easy upkeep (no green thumb necessary). These plants are supposed to be in your back yard, so they need less care.

So how does this make a "green" garden? You're protecting the natural environment by not bringing in invasive plant species as well as using less water. Get flowers, shrubs, trees and grass that are all Florida natives. Yes, you can have the greenest grass in the neighborhood by getting "green" grass next weekend.

Orange, Blue and Spring Arts -- A Colorful Splash in Downtown Gainesville Next Weekend!

2010-04-02T05:35:00.001-07:00

Circle the date and circle the fun-things-to-do wagons around downtown Gainesville `cause with all the activities on the calendar next weekend Gainesville's the place to be!

Sports fans, it's time again for the Orange and Blue Game at the University of Florida's Ben Hill Griffin stadium --this intrasquad Gator vs. Gator scrimmage next Saturday gives spectators a sneak peek at next Fall's Gator gridiron line-up and hopefully a happy hint of the 2010 season.

Just five minutes east on University Avenue, a different line-up is assembled as more than 250 artists from around the nation will display their works all along NE 1st Street in historic downtown Gainesville for the 41st (wow!) Santa Fe Springs Arts Festival.

The official festival poster created by the ever-talented local artist, Angela Hoppe, was just unveiled this week...and it's fantastic. A fitting foretaste of other masterpieces to be discovered at this year's festival, Saturday and Sunday (April 10 & 11).

Reminder -- It's Census Day Today

2010-04-01T13:57:00.000-07:00

Pardon us while we temporarily remove our Visitor and Tourist Hats and replace them with our

Citizens Alert Beanies!

Remember today is no longer April Fool's Day -- now it's the official Complete & Return the Census Form Day -- no fooling.
For those of us who haven't had the chance to complete this important document, it's a quick and easy process.

Really.

Our hats are off to you all!

Eggcellent Easter Eating

2010-04-01T06:31:00.000-07:00

We were a little surprised when a recent caller mentioned "I'm having a challenge finding restaurants in Gainesville serving Easter brunch." So pardon the pun, but we hopped right on the holiday brunch search mission.
In no time, and in true champion Easter Egg hunting mode, we found several restaurants that traditionally serve weekend brunches every Sunday and several that are putting on a special spread in honor of the Easter celebration. (And FYI each inquiry to each restaurant included "call for reservations" advice.)
So where to go for a special Easter Brunch in Gainesville?
Here's a sampling of a few we found that are adding a little something extra this Sunday:

Paramount Plaza Hotel and Suites is serving an elaborate Easter Brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Hilton University of Florida Conference Center is putting out it's Easter finest by serving brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Sweetwater Branch Inn has a very special Easter Brunch from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. Normally, brunch is only open to guests of the Inn, but this Sunday it has opened its doors to the public.
Sisters , a popular breakfast haunt in the upscale Haile Village in Soutwest Gainesville, is whipping up egg-straspecial Brunch (you just had to know that was eventually gonna show up) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Emiliano's Cafe, where PanLatino cuisine reigns supreme, is spicing up their normal Sunday Brunch to fortify anybunnies appetite (okay, we'll stop).

Of course, bountiful and delectable breakfast spreads are on the Easter Sunday menu at:

The Jones
43rd Street Deli
Peach Valley Cafe
Ivey's Grill

Before you hide or hunt for the golden egg, search no more for Easter Brunch in Gainesville.

Got a New and Innovative Idea?

2010-03-29T06:14:00.000-07:00

How many times have you "invented" a new gadget, an innovative approach, or a cool concept that you were sure only you had conjured? Then how many times have you simply tucked that great idea away only to discover just a few years later that some other genius thinker took YOUR idea and ran the distance with it?! And is making oodles of money in the process.

Well, no more creative com padres! Because the Cade Museum Foundation -- the organization that's spearheading the building of one of Gainesville's new favorite, as yet, not broken ground 'attractions' is offering the The Cade Prize for Innovation, the first annual prize rewarding all those incredible ideas you kept to yourself.

A whopping $50,000 is the top prize for the top entry submitted by an ingenious and enterprising Floridian. The judging process starts with the first must-do step of submitting a 500-word summary is due Wednesday, March 31. (A complete step-by-step calendar is on the The Cade Prize website.)

The goal of Cade Prize competition is an incredible one indeed - "to strengthen and develop the long-standing culture of innovation in Gainesville and Alachua County and to harness the tremendous job-creating potential of the brilliant ideas spring forth from this region every day."

Sounds like this initiative will make us all winners in the long run.

If you are interested and need additional information, then contact Monika Oli, the Foundation's Program Director by phone: 352-381-7100 or by e-mail: moli@cademuseum.org

2010-03-29T05:15:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago, the three R's stood for Reading, Writing and Arithmetic and was synonymous with the basic foundations of education. Call it progress, or simply label it a sign of the times, but if you ask any elementary school student today what the three r's stand for they'll proudly announce REDUCE! REUSE! and RECYCLE! -- with an occcasional "dude" thrown in at the end of the enthusiastic chant.

This earth and environmental friendly wave is riding high here in Gainesville. As a matter of fact, we are the midst of our 40 days of Change celebrating the 4oth Anniversary of Earth Day. The University of Florida Office of Sustainability (sounds official doesn't it?), kicked-off the celebration March 16 and created a comprehensive daily calendar of "green" activities to encourage kids of all ages (yes, that means you too) to learn how fun and moreover, easy it is to be conscious and caring of our planet.

Today, for example, is Meatless Monday -- admittedly some people in Texas or Nebraska probably will balk at this one -- but fear not, there is balance here too as the Chili Cook-off and Springs Celebration was just two days ago.

Walking tours of the incredible and expansive Paynes Prairie State Park Preserve as well as films and seminars on various topics such as raised bed veggie gardening as well as herbal nourishing and healing are also features on the 40 Days marquee. While the celebrations, activities and hoopla officially ends April 24, it is of course the hope that many of the sustainable principles and green practices promoted during the 40 Days campaign will be lifelong lessons.

Catch the green wave, it's coming your way...today.

Gainesville's First Environmental Film and Arts Festival

2010-03-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

Eighteen screenings of 12 films in 10 days. The Gainesville Environmental Film and Arts Festival began on March 19 and ends this Sunday, March 28. Subjects of the films range from reducing plastic dependence to the debate on organic, with plenty of areas of interest in between.

On Saturday, there will be an extra showing of DIRT!, a documentary that shows this underestimated (and perhaps under appreciated) resource is much more interesting than we thought (did you know it's made from the same elements as the stars?). It will be shown at the Hippodrome Theatre at 2:30 p.m. Tickets for this show are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and students and $3 for children 12 and under.

Also on Saturday is Ecofest which takes place at the outdoor Sun Center around the Hippodrome in downtown Gainesville. The event will feature special activities and demonstrations for all ages.
There will also be bands playing all afternoon.

1 p.m. to 4 p.m.-- Alachua County Environmental Protection Department will sponsor a project to collect, recycle, treat and properly dispose of hazardous waste and electronic equipment.

5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.-- Marty Henneka will be leading a session of Nia Moving Meditation. Nia is a movement practice that offers a philosophy to enhance your physical potential.

Plowing Away at Gainesville's Dudley Farm Historic State Park

2010-02-01T08:19:00.000-08:00

If it’s true that you “reap what you sow” then Plow Days this Friday, Feb. 5 and Saturday, Feb. 6 at The Dudley Farm Historic State Park will certainly produce bountiful opportunities to generate family fun and lasting memories.
The dedicated staff and volunteers at this charming and unassuming StatePark, located just 10-12 minutes west of Gainesville, will show-off their yesteryear farming talents by readying the fields with plows pulled by mule teams and draft horses. The commissary will be open and stocked with homemade Cane Syrup, freshly ground Corn meal and grits and a variety of fruit preserves. Handmade crafts and toys will also be available for purchase.
The special event hours are from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. both days. Park Admission is only $5 per vehicle (up to 8 passengers) and all proceeds benefit this historic state park. For more information about how you can reap, sow and have fun at Dudley Farm, visit their website.

Taking the Guesswork out of Vacationing with Kids in Gainesville

2010-01-25T12:32:00.001-08:00

We field a lot of questions here at VisitGainesville. Occasionally, we get the ones that have very little -- okay NOTHING -- to do with vacations, attractions, and hotels such as "why didn't I get my newspaper delivered at my house this morning?" or this lulu: "Can you tell me if my best friend's divorce is final yet?"

However, and thankfully, most of our inquiries are smack dab right-on-the-vacation-mark that we can answer with authority and assurance. Modestly, our VisitGainesville site is a comprehensive resource that addresses a number of questions. It includes specific sections such as Attractions detailing things to see and fun places to visit, while the Lodging area efficently directs folks to a list and links of close to 60 hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts.

Ranking high on the most frequently asked list and just beneath "Do you sell postcards?" (we don't, yet) and "Where should we eat dinner tonight?" is the timeless quest for "What fun places can we take our kids while vacationing in Gainesville?"

To greatly assist us in properly answering this question we've recently added the kids experts at Fun4Gatorkids to the VisitGainesville Links. While designed primarily as a resource for Gainesville residents, this informative family fun site sports a great calendar of events and a list of programs that are perfect for vacationing parents searching for educational yet entertaining "can't-do-that-at-home" adventures.

And do need to fret...we have it on very good authority that even though the name is Fun for "GATOR" kids, they welcome, encourage and invite little Bulldogs, Knights, and even `Noles to have fun in Gainesville.

Gainesville Florida's 2010 New Year's Eve

2009-12-29T11:37:00.000-08:00

If you're in downtown Gainesville on New Year's Eve looking for a fun (and free!) way to ring in 2010...look no further than the Bo Diddley Downtown Plaza.

The festivities -- complete with musical bands, balloons, and bubbly -- begin at 9 p.m. Here's more scoop - http://http//www.gvlculturalaffairs.org/website/programs_events/NYE/new_year.html

Gainesville's Creative Culinary Creations

2009-12-28T13:13:00.000-08:00

Admittedly even as blessed and resplendent in, well, a crop of rich fresh fruits and veggies yearround, Gainesville won't realistically hit the culinary pinnacle achieved by such meccas as the Napa Valley or it's neighboring sister, Sonoma.

However, there are indeed a growing number of incredible shining examples and glimmers of hope. Local chefs, Clif Nelson of Paramount Grill, Bert Gill of Mildred's and Frank Ruffino of Blue Highway Pizza are some of Gainesville's restauranteur/chefs pioneering this North Central Florida fresh farm to table movements working closely with dedicated local growers to dish out incredible, daily delectables.
Rounding out this team effort to propel Gainesville's foodie front, is a great, news-filled newsletter, Hogtown HomeGrown and its companion blog, Kitchen Crumbs. While the blog is new, the newsletter actually just marked its third anniversary. It is, according to its founder, Stefanie Samara Hamblen, "a labor of love to promote local foods and farmers markets." And that it does..and more. Hamblen graciously also includes several larruping recipes incorporating ingredients that are "in season." And, of course, she's included a list of "what's fresh right now" as a regular feature in each of the HHG's monthly newsletters.

So okay, Gainesville's not a culinary capital....yet. But with this strong team of homegrown help, it sure is going to be fun trying!

Gainesville's Newest Work of Art...Ingeniously Indigenous

2009-12-18T12:25:00.000-08:00

By definition, indigenous means originating and/or characterizing a particular region or country. This week at the Gainesville Regional Airport, the word took on another meaning when an awesome and incredible five-ton concrete and bronze gator head work of art was unveiled. Indigenous, the humongous and impressive reptile seemingly emerges and graces the front entrance of the airport’s newly renovated main passenger terminal.
Yes, Indigenous is actually the newest work in the City of Gainesville’s collection in Art in Public Places. According to Pete Davidson, the wildly creative artist (and University of Florida Alumni), he transformed this five ton alligator (who, by the way, confirmed that “I” is a girl) from a collection of almost every imaginable (and quite frankly improbable) pile of treasured and “repurposed” scraps and recycled treasures. Upon closer inspection you realize that her beautifully symmetrical eyebrows (okay, do gators really have eyebrows?) are actually old railroad track and Cracker cow horns, a portion of her snout is antique typewriter keys and the top of her mammoth (no gator) head is an old wagon wheel! Cool, cool, cool.
Just keep looking and you’re bound to discover even more items than you could ever imagine and oddly reminiscent of the search for hidden objects in the children’s Highlight magazine or Where’s Waldo…but better.
So go to the Gainesville airport. Take a good gander at Indigenous. Although she looks like she might, she probably won’t bite -- and discover why Indigenous’ middle name could easily be ingenious!

High Springs putting Final Touches On Historic Holiday Homes Tour

2009-12-16T08:37:00.000-08:00

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in the charming hamlet of High Springs. Located just 15-minutes north of downtown Gainesville, this tiny town nestled next to the Santa Fe River and pristine Poe Springs, is busily preparing and putting the final touches for this Sunday’s (Dec.20) Historic Homes Tour.
The tour kicks-off at the charming Grady House Bed & Breakfast at 5 p.m., where guests are served sparkling Champagne punch and yummy hors devours adding to the heart-warming and festive holiday atmosphere at this 1907 former boarding house transformed into a popular relaxing vacation retreat. The tour, in its third year, includes eight other historic homes in High Springs making this night a memorable holiday tradition. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased in advance or Sunday evening at the Grady House; contact the folks at either the High Springs Main Street (ph) 386-454-2889 http://www.highspringsmainstreet.com/ or Lucie Regensdorf proprietor at the Grady House http://www.gradyhouse.com/
Click here for a quick 30-second preview of the event http://www.vimeo.com/7942362

You May Have to Give Us A Moment...please?

2009-12-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

Admittedly, the air here in Gainesville is thick with disappointment over this weekend's SEC loss to Alabama. So thick in fact, that multiple whacks with even the most capable of machetes wouldn't do the trick. Gainesville and all the citizens of the Gator Nation (you know, it's everywhere) are, of course, bummed that we lost, but the dark veil of despair really comes crashing down with the realization that this is the very last, yes, the final, the finale, the last dance with Tim Tebow and the football team's other incredible senior Gators.

And you know, quite frankly, it's easy to get accustomed to this winning feeling. Oh that winning feeling! We've been fortunate here in G-ville. So all we humbly request is a few moments to regroup, recoup, and clear our minds....and whack away at the air of despair!

The Hipp is Hot for the Holidays....

2009-12-04T12:59:00.000-08:00

...perhaps a bit too hot! One of the stage curtains at the Hippodrome State Theater, in the heart of historic downtown Gainesville -- caught fire Wednesday evening! Thankfully everyone is fine and so is the theater so run don't walk to enjoy a production of either of their incredible holiday stage productions....for the classic-seeking theater aficinado, "A Christmas Carol" is a perfect choice. For those seeking to blend giggles and jingle bells, the Hipp's original production of "A Tuna Christmas" fits the bill to a tee.

Gift yourself or some well-deserving friends and family with a ticket to the Hipp for the Holidays!

2009-12-03T06:15:00.001-08:00

Even though we're in the heart of the Sunshine State, it is indeed beginning to look a lot like Christmas here in Gainesville. As a matter of fact there are sooo many holiday happenings, we'll post an event here almost every day until the end of December. Also catch us on our new visitgainesville fan page for additional information and updates.

We start today with the classics....

The College of Fine Arts School of Music prepares to entertain and spread holiday cheer once again at its annual music program highlighting world holiday music and traditional carols at the University of Florida.
Sounds of the Season will include performances by the University Concert Choir, Gainesville Civic Chorus, and includes a very special addition to the Sounds of the Season tradition with the inclusion of the University Symphony Orchestra, directed by Dr. Raymond Chobaz. Dr. Will Kesling will conduct the concert. The performance begins at 6 p.m., Dec. 6 at the University Auditorium and features seasonal music from across the globe, including "March of the Toys" from Babes in Toyland, "Overture to Miracle on 34th Street," and "Trépak" from The Nutcracker. Nicholas Pallesen, an alum of the School of Music will be a special guest performer. **The concert is a free ticketed event. Seats fill up quickly and are on a first-come, first-serve basis; therefore, the audience is encouraged to be there when the doors open at 5:00 p.m. There are no reserve tickets available.

Gainesville Hotels at Your Fingertips!

2009-11-18T07:27:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a high-tech tool can translate to no-to-low human touch service. The consolation prize is that most of these new fangled gadgets, like the VisitGainesville new hotel booking tool, enables you to book a hotel room with the quick click of the mouse. Our website - Gainesville's official tourism site -- offers an array of hotel properties to preview, check their available dates as well as "shop" the rate for those dates. Once you find the magic combination, you can reserve it right there, right then. There are no fees, no hidden costs just a simple, quick and cool tool to reserve a hotel room in Gainesville.

Try it at http://www.visitgainesville.com/ And if you have any questions at any point a friendly staff of VisitGainesville humans stand at the ready to personally assist. But admittedly, we can only try to be as cool as the computer.

It's a Banner Day to Sing About in Gainesville

2009-11-06T12:37:00.000-08:00

I've been humming the great old ditty, "You're A Grand Old Flag" ever since I drove by to admire the new, lovely lampost banners heralding Gainesville's charming downtown Southeast Historic Bed & Breakfast District! Obviously the words have changed a bit ... as they are great new banners. But they are indeed high flying...and gorgeous.

This neighborhood -- just a quick walk from the heart of downtown restaurants, shopping and theatre -- sports four of our seven historic bed and breakfast inns. If you haven't had a chance to visit them (and see these snazzy new wind-flappers), consider treating yourself or a loved one by booking a stay during this year's annual Historic Holiday Homes Tour....it's a great opportunity at an even better price!

Just another reason to sing!

Still Batty in Gainesville After All These Months!

2009-10-09T07:25:00.001-07:00

Wow...time flies doesn't it!? And the bats at the Lubee Bat Conservancy here in Gainesville do too! Yes, it's difficult to believe but it's been a year since I shared how downright gleeful I was that I and my two elementary school-aged children were attending the Lubee Bat Festival 2008 -- and now it's time yet again!

We had such an amazing time last year, that we've marked off the days and tomorrow -- Saturday, Oct. 10 -- we're returning for Bat Fest `09! It is the only time in the year that the doors are open to the public to learn about and enjoy these little beasts that really look more like an upside down, star-struck puppy!

So kick-off your Halloween season with a visit -- it's a real treat!

For additional information, here's some information....http://www.lubee.org/Florida-Annual-Bat-Festival.html

Digging the Gainesville Area?

2009-10-08T05:25:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I believe, we get so caught up in the hustle bustle of the image of Florida today (you know, swaying palm trees, electric theme parks and snazzy beach side resorts) that we forget about the richness and mystery of what it was like in days gone by -- I'm talking way, way gone by....okay, prehistoric yesteryear. This step, okay, leap back-in-time concept struck me as I read a news release yesterday announcing the Florida Museum of Natural History's annual fossil dig that begins Saturday, Oct. 24.

Get this Indiana Jones fans, a group of the Museum's "vertebrate paleontologists" will host the dig at nearby Thomas Farm -- a rich site replete with big critter bones that roamed this area some 18 million years ago...that's right 18 million. Wow. Just imagine digging and panning, ala gold miner, and better yet FINDING bones from ancient three-toed horses, giant bear-dogs, and Alligator olseni the great grandfather millions of years removed from a 21st century gator. By the way...what's a giant bear-dog?

The project continues through Tuesday, Nov. 24 with work occurring from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Volunteers should be at at least 15 years old, in good health and be able to work a minimum of three hours a day.

Apparently, since the Museum began offering these volunteer-based digs in 2000, they have collected thousands of "scientifically valuable" fossils -- a.k.a. "good-uns" -- helping scientists take a better peek into what Florida really looked like millions of centuries ago. My guess, and of course, it's just a guess, these digs have yet to uncover a fossil wearing a funny floral shirt, zinc oxide suffering from carpal tunnel because they were texting too much on their smart phone.

If you'd like to step back and dig in the dirt...check out the details and the application at the Museum's special page, http://www.flmhn.ufl.edu/vertpaleo/fall_2009.htm

No bones about it, it sounds like a lot of fun and adventure.

Downtown Hotel Ribbon Cutting Marks New Start...

2009-10-05T07:26:00.000-07:00

...and a different look to Gainesville, Florida's downtown. The 122-room Hampton Inn and Suites had its official ribbon cutting ceremony and it was quite the celebration with a cadre of guest speakers including Ms. Pegeen Hanrahan,our lovely mayor, passed hors d'oeuvres and tours of the new property. The opening of this property starts a new chapter in Gainesville's revitalization of it's historic downtown and the measured yet steady increase in lodging options.

Our congrats and best wishes...to all our hoteliers...and to you Hampton, welcome to town...downtown!

Let Your Fingers Do the Walking in Historic Gainesville Neighborhoods

2009-09-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

So when does high-tech meet history? When you let your fingers doing the walking with a new cell phone tour . Now a step back in Gainesville's rich history, is at your fingertips. The narratives provide vivid details about each of sites, neighborhoods, attractions and bed an & breakfasts included in this program.

Whether you're actually in Gainesville or simply planning the next vacation itinerary, VisitGainesville’s new tour by cell is fast becoming THE guide to Gainesville’s historic roots.

Down Home and Grown in Gainesville Florida

2009-09-11T11:33:00.000-07:00

Ironically, some of the best consumers of Gainesville’s local produce are actually vacationers staying at one of the area’s historic Bed and Breakfasts.

Each morning the proprietors at each of Gainesville area’s seven charming inns busily dish up traditional favorites -- most made with fresh ingredients purchased at one of Gainesville’s growing number of Farmers markets. From fresh plucked seasonal fruits drizzled with locally produced honey to a savory frittata loaded with red ripe tomatoes and just-snipped basil, a sampling of delectable dishes are always on the menu at Gainesville charming B&B’s.

Even better news for foodies, especially farmers market-following ones, Gainesville's list of markets is growing. Take a look see at the latest issue on the Hogtown HomeGrown website to get the latest listing and locations. The newsletter, produced by local expert foodie, Stephanie Hamblen, also features delectable recipes using some of these markets freshest and most bountiful fruits and veggies.

Better yet, after visting the website, actually explore Gainesville's markets...sample, sip and savor!

Take a Walk on Gainesville's wild side!

2009-09-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

Boomer Vacations in a College Town – As home to the University of Florida, one of nation’s top-ranked universities, education is the foundation for many-things Gainesville. So it only stands to reason that Gainesville is fast-becoming a hot-spot for active mature adults wishing to combine educational and entertaining adventures in a slightly off-the-beaten path Florida destination. Itinerary highlights include searching for pre-historic Mastodon bones on an archeological dig with the staff from the Florida Museum of Natural History or join in on a ‘Gentle Walk’ around the La Chua Trail with a Paynes Prairie State Park ranger or help grind sugar cane with the Florida Cracker farmers at Dudley Farm State Park.