Feel Raw Energy at the 2025 NHRA Gatornationals

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top fuel dragster at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway

Reserve your place at the starting line for the 56th Annual Amalie Oil NHRA Gatornationals, March 6-9, 2025 at Gainesville Raceway.
The legendary event opens the 2025 NHRA schedule with the fastest racers competing in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, Pro Stock Motorcycle and more. Every ticket is a pit pass; see race teams servicing engines and race cars and get driver autographs. General parking is free and ages 12 and under are free with paid adult.
View the race schedule and get Gatornationals tickets online.

If you are headed to Gainesville Raceway for a chance to see drag-racing history at the NHRA Gatornationals, here’s everything you need to make the most of your weekend at the races.

black and white photo of original sonnys bbq location with sonny tillman

Find spots close to the race track on Waldo Road, including the original Sonny’s BBQ, serving up pitmaster favorites since 1968. You’ll also find the iconic Satchel’s Pizza 1965 Ford Falcon Van and a menu of tasty pies, salads and homemade sodas.

In downtown Gainesville, find New American at The Top, Japanese fusion at Dragonfly Sushi and Sake Company and Venuzuelan flavors at Tinker Latin Food. At 4th Ave Food Park find a variety of menus including Detroit style pizza at Satch Squared, housemade sausage and small plates at Fehrenbacher’s Artisan Sausages and burritos at Muñecas.

Part sports museum, part restaurant, Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille offers an elevated menu with a great atmosphere and rooftop bar named after Steve Spurrier’s signature headwear, Visors.

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

After the races, make a toast to record speeds and friendship at a brewery taproom or beer garden.

Local craft breweries include Blackadder Brewing Company, Cypress and Grove Brewing Company, Daft Cow Brewery, Dry Wrought Cider, First Magnitude Brewing Company, Grand Scheme Brewing, High Springs Brewing Company and Swamp Head Brewery. Each brewery boasts a unique atmosphere, food trucks and live music. Check their websites for schedules.

inside rotunda and staircase of Cade Museum

Cool off indoors and make discoveries with unique museum experiences. The Cade Museum is named after Dr. Robert Cade, one of the lead inventors of Gatorade. View exhibitions and highlights from over 10,000 works of art at the Harn Museum of Art.

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butterfly garden at kanapaha botanical gardens

Alachua County offers a refreshing break from typical Florida tourist attractions. Explore distinct plant collections at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, including the largest public display of bamboo in Florida. View rare animal species on tour of Carson Springs Wildlife. Get outside and discover nature with over 100 miles of trails at unique Florida State Parks and local nature preserves. Splash Into the Springs and paddle along the scenic Santa Fe River.

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Woman shopping at the Auk Market in Gainesville, Florida

Experience Gainesville’s diverse shopping scene, where local boutiques and galleries sit alongside popular national retailers. From downtown Gainesville’s charming independent stores to Butler Plaza’s familiar brands, shoppers can find everything they’re looking for. Venture into nearby Micanopy, High Springs, and other Alachua County towns to discover antique shops, vintage treasures, and small-town charm.

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