10 TOP Things to Do in North Central Florida (2025 Activity Guide)

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What to do in North Central Florida

Popular places to visit

University of Florida

Take a campus tour or just explore the area around University of Florida, a top college in Gainesville. Stroll along the lakeside or attend a sporting event in the area.

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

Catch an event at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium during your trip to Gainesville. Stroll along the lakeside or attend a sporting event in the area.

Rainbow Springs State Park

You can take time to visit Rainbow Springs State Park during your travels to Dunnellon. Stroll along this relaxing area's riverfront, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Rainbow River

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Rainbow River during your travels in Dunnellon. Stroll along this family-friendly area's riverfront, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Silver Springs State Park

Explore the great outdoors with a trip to Silver Springs State Park, a popular green space in Ocala. Discover the area's live music, or seek out its horseback riding.

Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

You can take time to visit Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park during your travels to High Springs. Discover the area's restaurants or seek out the kayaking spots.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Explore the great outdoors at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, a lovely green space in Gainesville. Wander the college campus and lakeside in the area.

World Equestrian Center – Ocala

Learn about the events happening at World Equestrian Center – Ocala during your trip to Ocala. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Shands at the University of Florida

Though Shands at the University of Florida might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Gainesville while you are here.

Areas of North Central Florida

University Heights

While University Heights isn't home to many top sights, Hippodrome State Theatre and Ben Hill Griffin Stadium are some notable places to visit nearby.

Historic Downtown

While there might not be top attractions in Historic Downtown, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP and Paddock Mall.

Haile Plantation

If you're spending some time in Haile Plantation, Haile Plantation Golf and Country Club and Haile Village Center are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Gainesville

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Downtown Gainesville and surrounding area, you can visit Hippodrome State Theatre and Thomas Center.

Historic District

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Historic District and surrounding area, you can visit Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP and Paddock Mall.