Gainesville’s parks offer fun, adventure and relaxation for families with kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for playgrounds, nature trails or picnic spots, there is something for you! Here are the top eight parks in Gainesville.
1. Depot Park
874 SE 4th St
depotpark.org
Hours:
Children’s play area: 7 a.m. to Sunset
Lit areas in the park: 7 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Depot Park is a hub for family activities in Gainesville. It has an expansive playground with splash pads, climbing structures, swings and more. Kids can play while parents relax in the nearby shaded areas. There are also scenic walking trails, a picturesque pond and plenty of picnic spots!
2. Albert “Ray” Massey (Westside) Park
1001 NW 34th St
gainesvillefl.gov/Parks/Albert-Ray-Massey-Park-Westside-Park
Hours:
7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
This is Gainesville’s largest park, and it is a family favorite. It has playgrounds with equipment suitable for all ages, a large swimming pool, sports fields, walking trails, tennis courts and a skate park. Also, the shaded picnic areas and ample green space make it an ideal spot for family time!
3. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Summer House, 4700 SW 58th Dr
kanapaha.org
Hours:
9 a.m – 5 p.m. Mon – Fri
9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sat – Sun
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a beautiful and educational destination for families. It is 68-acre park with a kids’ area, a butterfly garden and a bamboo forest. You and your kiddos can explore the winding paths, look for wildlife and learn about different plants!
4. Loblolly Woods Nature Park
3315 NW 5th Ave
gainesvillefl.gov/Parks/Loblolly-Woods-Nature-Park
Hours:
Dawn to dusk
Loblolly Woods Nature Park is a must-visit for families who enjoy both nature and adventure. This park has trails for hiking, biking and walking. You can also bird-watch and search for other wildlife!
5. Tom Petty Park
501 NE 16th Ave
gainesvillefl.gov/Parks/Tom-Petty-Park
Hours:
Dawn to dusk
Tom Petty Park is named after Gainesville’s famous rock musician, Tom Petty Park! There is a playground features modern equipment, with slides, climbing structures and swings. There are also basketball courts, picnic areas and open spaces for free play!
6. Possum Creek Park
4009 NW 53rd Ave
gainesvillefl.gov/Parks/Possum-Creek-Park
Hours:
Dawn to dusk
Possum Creek Park has a playground, dog park, nature trails and wide-open spaces, making it a great place for families to spend quality time together!
7. Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park
1500 NW 45th Ave
gainesvillefl.gov/Parks/Hogtown-Creek-Headwaters-Nature-Park-Nature-Center
Hours:
7 a.m. – 8 p.m. March – Sept.
7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Oct. – March
Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park has scenic trails that wind through the forest and along the creek. Your kiddos can enjoy exploring these trails, seeing the creek and observing wildlife.
Must-Have Park Supplies
Owala Kids Water Bottle
Plant-Based bug Repellent
Gainesville’s parks offer a wide range of activities and natural beauty for kids and families to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for playgrounds, nature trails, or picnic spots, these top eight parks in Gainesville provide the perfect destinations for family fun and outdoor adventures. So pack a picnic, gather the kids, and explore the best parks Gainesville has to offer!
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