Game Day in Gainesville

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Welcome to Gainesville and Alachua County where SEC game days come with a side of unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re cheering for the Gators or bringing the roar from your own corner of the conference, you’ll find plenty to explore between kickoff and the final whistle. Stroll through walkable downtowns filled with award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, and live music. Recharge in the natural beauty of our parks, springs, and scenic trails. From tailgate traditions and electric stadium energy to culture, cuisine, and outdoor escapes, Gainesville is more than just the home of the Gators – it’s your SEC home away from home.

metal sculpture of n alligator on a globe

Enhance your time in town by savoring fresh, local cuisine, visiting award-winning craft breweries, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area through hiking, biking, birdwatching, or swimming in crystal-clear freshwater springs. Explore fascinating museums, enjoy live music, and experience the arts in a way that’s both exciting and accessible. And don’t forget to sign up for the WHAT’S GOOD® award-winning guide of events to stay informed of unique happenings during your stay.

2025 Florida football schedule:

Long Island , August 30, 7 p.m.
South Florida, September 6, 4:15 p.m.
Texas, October 4

Mississippi State, October 18
Tennessee, November 22
Florida State, November 29

Flights of beer served in a Florida license plate at First Magnitude Brewing Co

Local craft breweries make a perfect gathering place after a day on the water or hiking the trails. Enjoy live music, food trucks, themed events and annual festivals. Cheers to following your taste for adventure to some of Florida’s best brews.

UF Bat Houses at sunset

Gainesville and Alachua County are packed with opportunities for unforgettable experiences that won’t cost you a cent! From picturesque parks and serene nature trails to cultural landmarks and engaging community events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

There’s nothing quite like SEC football in Gainesville. As Gator Nation takes over the city, streets fill with tailgates, traditions, and the unmistakable energy of The Swamp. Fans flock to UF’s campus early for live music, local eats, and the electrifying Gator Walk – where the team arrives to roaring cheers. Just steps away, Midtown buzzes with game day specials and fan-favorite spots packed with orange and blue.

Inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, the heat, the hype, and the iconic “Won’t Back Down” singalong create a bucket-list experience for every college football fan. Win or lose, the celebration continues across town with cold craft brews, live music, and late-night bites that keep the SEC spirit going strong.

sign describing gatorade's birthplace

Plan ahead with the Florida Gators Football Game Day Guide, and get details including mobile ticketing, parking and shuttles, pre-game events, tailgating and more.

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