7 Unique Things to Do in Gainesville for Families

Gainesville, Florida is a phenomenal place for families. Beyond the amazing sports culture that comes with the University of Florida (Go Gators!), our town is packed with opportunities for families to spend quality time together. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Gainesville for families, you came to the right place. Here at Celebration Pointe, we believe in creating unforgettable memories that last a lifetime — and we have plenty of ways to make it happen! Without further ado, here’s your bucket list of good times galore that won’t break the bank.

Solve Scooby-Do’s “Spooky Castle Adventure” at Escapology:
Escapology, Gainesville’s premier private escape room experience, is the perfect place for outside-of-the-box family fun. While they offer many different types of puzzles, Scooby-Doo and The Spooky Castle Adventure appeals to every age with fun, familiar characters.
Also, did you know that Escapology has a special “Kids Mode” feature? Designed for kids ages 7-14, it’s the perfect place for a party or an extended-family outing where the cousin crew can work together to solve a puzzle.

1. Solve Scooby-Do’s “Spooky Castle Adventure” at Escapology:
   Escapology, Gainesville’s premier private escape room experience, is the perfect place for outside-of-the-box family fun. While they offer many different types of puzzles, Scooby-Doo and The Spooky Castle Adventure appeals to every age with fun, familiar characters.
   Also, did you know that Escapology has a special “Kids Mode” feature? Designed for kids ages 7-14, it’s the perfect place for a party or an extended-family outing where the cousin crew can work together to solve a puzzle.
2. Get a reel deal at Regal Celebration Pointe:
   Got the cinephile family who dreams in technicolor? Welcome to movie paradise without the blockbuster price! Right now, on Saturday mornings, Regal at Celebration Pointe lights up the big screen for just $2 a ticket with their Saturday Morning Kids Flick.
   It’s a reel steal for all ages with a stacked lineup of family-favorite movies like The Super Mario Bros. Movie and Harry Potter.
   Can’t make it on a Saturday? They also have discounted tickets and popcorn on Tuesdays for Regal Value Days.
3. Harvest a heap of memories at the Thursday Farmers’ Market:
   For a nourishing blend of farm-fresh fare and community charm, celebrate the local bounty at our Thursday Farmers Market. Complete with live music, you and your family will love wandering through the vendors’ booths and going on a local goodie treasure hunt.
   It’s open from 4-7pm, which lends to doubling this outing with dinner at one of our family-friendly restaurants.
4. Listen to a serenade at sunset while eating delicious pizza at MidiCi’s:
   Piping hot pizza and cool summer sounds beckon from the Promenade. With loads of live music events happening at Celebration Pointe, your family will love pizza on the patio while listening to groovy tunes.
   The Concert Series with Kiss 105.3 FM and Playlist @ the Pointe features local bands that’ll hit just the right notes for a toe-tappin’ trifecta – food, music, and family!
5. Have brunch at Peach Valley Cafe:
   This makes our list of unique things to do in Gainesville for families because Peach Valley Cafe only has locations in North Central Florida! Satisfy everyone’s cravings at this delightful eatery where Southern charm meets farm-fresh cuisine.
   Their famous peach cobbler French toast is sure to be a favorite among your whole family. Their menu also offers plenty of options for breakfast and lunch until 2:30pm.
6. Play life-size Hungry Hungry Hippos at Dave & Busters:
   Take your love for the classic game to the next level at Dave & Buster’s! Their life-size version of Hungry Hungry Hippos is a blast for all ages, where the goal is to race to collect as many balls as you can, just like in the classic board game.
   After you finish this larger-than-life version of the beloved game, you can keep the fun times rolling with arcade games that’ll zap you right back into a world of unstoppable excitement and laughter!
7. Level up your sports skills at Alachua County Sports & Events Center:
   Get your game on at the Alachua County Sports & Events Center, where you can try out a variety of sports like pickleball, basketball, and volleyball.
   With both indoor and outdoor facilities available, it’s the perfect place to stay active and have some friendly competition with your family!
   Note: Open play schedules change based on tournament and event schedules; for the most up-to-date schedule, contact 833.258.7356.

Insider Tips for the Ultimate Day Out

• Plan to avoid the hustle and bustle by visiting on a weekday or early on weekends.
• Parking is easy-breezy with plenty of spots, but if you’re running short on time, go for the parking garage so you’re not driving around looking for parking options.
• Keep an eye on the events calendar for the latest events and be sure to snag tickets in advance when applicable.
• Dress comfy and be ready for anything; once you get to Celebration Pointe, you’ll see how much magic awaits!
• Bring your appetite and dive into the diverse dining options! Whether you’re craving gourmet bites or a quick snack, we’ve got your taste buds covered. From cozy cafes to lively family restaurants, each meal is an opportunity to create delicious memories together.

There you have it! Make today the day you discover the magic of unique things to do in Gainesville for families at Celebration Pointe! Pack up the kids, grab your sense of adventure, and let’s create those moments that make life truly special. This is where families come to celebrate life, laughter, and each other — we can’t wait to see you soon!