There is no shortage of activities in Gainesville for Memorial Day. One option for spending the day is taking in some of Florida's greatest natural beauty that can be found in the city.
Alachua County also hosts a special event to remember those who have lost their lives serving our country. Here is our list of the best things to do on Memorial Day in Gainesville!
Those looking for a way to honor people who have served in the country can attend the Alachua County Memorial Day Ceremony. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Forest Meadows Cemetary-East.
There will be a variety of veteran and military organizations on hand. There will also be a flyover, wreath laying, and BBQ.
Those who visit the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens can view the 24 different collections they have on-site via a one a half mile walkway. They have the largest bamboo display in Florida and the Southeast's largest herb garden.
For those looking to find a place for a great Memorial Day picnic, there is an excellent area to do so near the entrance. Operating hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is $8 for adults, $5 for kids ages 5-13.
La Chua Trail is an excellent wildlife observatory located on the north end of the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. This is the preeminent place in the state to see alligators and a one-mile long boardwalk creates a structured environment for viewing them in their habitat.
There are other interesting features of nature to see on the trail like the Alachua Sink. Adventurers can also go beyond the boardwalk to hike out to an observation tower.
The Butterfly Rainforest is the highlight of the Florida Museum of Natural History and it requires a separate admission ticket. There are thousands of butterflies that can be seen in a beautiful 6,400-square-foot facility.
For an extra special experience, go at 2 p.m. to see the daily live butterfly release. Hours at the Butterfly Rainforest are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is $11 for Florida residents and $6 for children ages 3-17.
The Santa Fe Teaching Zoo can be an excellent activity that the whole family will enjoy. They have 70 species and 250 animals under their oversight and some of the highlights are their white-handed gibbons, red ruffed lemurs, and African grey parrots.
The zoo also has a playground area and picnic areas. Hours at the zoo are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and admission is $5 for adults and $4 for children 4-12.
Gainesville has a unique list of options for enjoying Memorial Day. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you enjoy the day with family and friends!
To get the latest news on events in Gainesville, subscribe to 352area. It's free to sign-up and those who do will get access to top deals and specials!
Cover photo from Unsplash
