Are you trying to figure out which of the many museums in Gainesville you should visit today?
No need to worry. I got you!
You may know Florida for its turquoise water, but the beautiful state features a lot more than just stunning beaches.
When exploring North Central Florida, don’t miss Gainesville – perhaps the most family-friendly and charming town in the area.
Not sure how to spend a day? We’ve got an idea! Take a tour through the amazing museums in Gainesville.
Here is a list of my top five favorites you must visit!
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Best Museums in Gainesville at a Glance
- Walk through time at the Florida Museum of Natural History and discover local fossils, dinosaur skeletons, and even a Butterfly Rainforest
- Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention is a perfect destination for curious minds with its interactive exhibitions
- If you want to learn more about the fascinating history behind Gainesville, Alachua County, and surrounding areas, then Matheson History Museum is the place to be
Keep reading to find out why I love these Gainesville museums!
1. Florida Museum of Natural History and Butterfly Rainforest
Fans of nature will surely enjoy a visit to the Florida Museum of Natural History.
One of the nation’s top five museums will be a pleasant surprise for both little visitors and grown-ups.
There you will find collections that feature more than 40 million specimens and artifacts, a life-size limestone cave, and even a mammoth from the last ice age.
You will want to add it to your list of things to do in Gainesville, it also has local fossils and dinosaur skeletons!
How much does it cost to visit the Florida Museum of Natural History?
With this amazing museum being open year-round, the general admission is free. However, donations are welcome.
Perhaps the most thrilling part of the experience is the Butterfly Rainforest.
Why This is One of the Best Museums in Gainesville, Florida
In the exhibit, you can catch a glimpse of the lives of hundreds of free-flying butterflies, wondrous birds from all parts of the world, and other cute animals such as fish and turtles.
Since the museum’s spaces are filled with tropical trees and colorful flowering plants, it will feel like you have traveled oceans away.
How much does it cost to visit the Butterfly Rainforest in Gainesville, Florida?
To see the Butterfly Rainforest for yourself, you must buy a separate ticket, which costs $14 for adults, $12.50 for Florida residents, college students, and seniors, and $7.50 for kids.
It is free to though to UF Students as long as you bring along your valid Gator 1 card.
Just be ready to spend a few hours in this museum as it is much larger than you think with so much to discover.
My daughter and I had lots of fun going through all of the displays and exhibits at this Gainesville destination. Our favorite area was the tribute to the Black Seminoles.
Exhibits Always on Display
- Butterfly Rainforest
- Discovery Zone
- Water Shapes Florida
- Indoor Butterfly Exhibits
- Florida Fossils: Evolution of Life and Land
- South Florida People and Environments
- Exploring Our World
- Our Energy Future
However, there is always something new to come out and explore at The Florida Museum!
Special exhibits are always making their way to this museum in Gainesville but remember that they are only available for a limited time so don’t save it for a rainy day you may just miss out.
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2. Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
Located on the wonderful Depot Park, the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention is a perfect destination for all curious minds alike.
Have you ever wanted to be a scientist? Or do you think your little one has the potential to be the next Albert Einstein?
Then visiting this incredible museum is a must!
Why This is One of the Best Museums in Gainesville, Florida
The Cade allows children and adults to have access to interactive exhibitions that focus on creativity and innovations.
Currently, the museum is showcasing a mesmerizing collection that is a playground of mind-boggling fun for both your eyes and mind, Imagination in Motion: Animation and Optical Illusions!
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How much does it cost to visit the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention?
The famous attraction is open from Thursday to Sunday, and the admission price is:
- $15 for adults
- $10 for children ages 5-17
- $12.50 for college students and seniors
- Free for kids under the age of 4
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3. Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art
Looking to get your daily dose of art?
When it comes to museums in Gainesville, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art is surely one of the best.
Why This is One of the Best Museums in Gainesville, Florida
Founded in 1990, it is the perfect place to find great works of Asian, and African photography, and modern and contemporary art.
Did you know that currently, the Harn is also the permanent home of Claude Monet’s famous work “Champ d’avoine”?
But that’s not it. In the museum, curious visitors will also find excellent examples of Ancient American and Oceanic art.
How much does it cost to visit the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art?
The 108,800-square-foot facility is open from:
- Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Thursday evenings for Art after Dark: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
You’ll be happy to know that admission is free at this Gainesville art museum.
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4. Kika Silva Pla Planetarium
Home for all astronomy lovers, the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium is one of the coolest museums in Gainesville.
Thanks to the live and interactive shows produced by the Planetarium, you are guaranteed to have an experience that seems otherworldly.
Why This is One of the Best Museums in Gainesville, Florida
You will learn so much more about ancient cultures, meteorology, geology, and even health sciences.
I love it here because it’s the perfect place for you if you’re searching for a more unique experience in Gainesville.
You will surely enjoy the museum’s immersive music video performances!
I love being here and feeling like I’m escaping to a world beyond my daily life.
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How much does it cost to visit Kika Silva Pla Planetarium?
The ticket prices vary based on the showings but you can expect around $7 for adults and $5 for seniors and kids from 4 to 12. Admission for toddlers and infants is free.
I recommend getting there early, at least 15 minutes or so, that way you have enough time to get settled into your seat or a last-minute bathroom stop. Because once the presentation starts you can’t reenter if you step out!
5. Matheson History Museum
Ready to go back in time?
If you want to learn more about the fascinating history behind Gainesville, Alachua County, and surrounding areas, you have to plan a visit to the Matheson History Museum.
Why This is One of the Best Museums in Gainesville, Florida
Within the complex, you will find the main exhibit gallery, 1867 Matheson House, Library & Archives, Tison Tool Barn, and Sweetwater Park, so make sure to set aside at least a few hours for the attraction.
My personal favorite is the 1867 Matheson House which is one of the three oldest residences in Gainesville.
Compared to other museums in Gainesville, it offers a more in-depth look into the city’s cultural landscape.
How much does it cost to visit the Matheson History Museum?
The museum is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. and is free of admission.
If you can’t make it out then check out their online collections which is always being updated with new additions to explore.
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My Final Thoughts on the Best Museums in Gainesville
Although small in size, Gainesville, Florida has plenty to offer for its visitors.
So, whether you decide to spend a day at the Matheson History Museum or look into the wonders of natural life at the Florida Museum of Natural History and Butterfly Rainforest, you are bound to have a great time.
After all – a day without learning something new is a wasted day.
Now it’s your turn, which museum in Gainesville, Florida is your favorite? Let us know in the comments section below!
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Until next time, Happy Florida Travels Hipster!
About the Author
My name is NikkyJ. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves exploring all the hidden gems of Florida!
I was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida which attributes to my passion about for this amazing state.
I want to show you how you can create your own memories while discovering the Sunshine State!
Connect with me on Instagram!
(Original Article Date: November 8, 2021/Updated on May 3, 2024)