Although Gainesville is a small city, it has a lot to offer in the way of activities and attractions. Gainesville takes pride in being able to offer a variety of locations and landmark sites to help provide recreation and education to the public. There are a number of museums, educational institutions, animal attractions and other things that people can enjoy in this city.

Museum goers who are looking for things to do in Gainesville can take a trip to one of a few museum venues the city has to offer. The Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art is a part of the University of Florida and features a number of collections and exhibitions along with art educational programs. Another museum located on this campus is the Florida Museum of Natural History, which features Native American and natural history exhibits.

Gainesville is also home to the University of Florida. People who want to learn more about the university can schedule a tour to find out the history and cultural influences that surround the institution. The famous "Gators" mascot is a town staple and is a driving force for a lot of the city's college pride. Visitors can learn about the many top athletes in both men and women's sports that have come out of the University of Florida.

For those who are looking for things to do in Gainesville that are based outdoors, there is the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo. This zoo features 250 animals from 70 different species. Visitors can get an up-close view of bald eagles, African grey parrots, white-handed gibbons, red-ruffed lemurs and a number of other animals. Students in the Zoo Animal Technology Program at Santa Fe College give tours of the animals and the 10-acre zoo grounds throughout the week.

For butterfly lovers, a guide of things to do in Gainesville would not be complete without mentioning the Butterfly Rainforest. This attraction is the perfect way to experience the beauty of this insect. The rainforest is open for visits during the week and on weekends.