UF Graduation Weekend in Gainesville, FL: AirBNB - VRBO - STR
UF - University of florida - 2025 Spring Graduation - Go Gators - AirBNB - VRBO - STR Rentals

Beyond the Hotel: Elevate Your UF Graduation Weekend at Laurel Oak Estate or Camellia Rose Mansion
University of Florida graduation is a monumental milestone, a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. For families and friends, it's a time to celebrate, reconnect, and create lasting memories. But amidst the excitement, finding suitable accommodations for large groups can be a challenge. Traditional hotels often lack the space, privacy, and personalized touch needed for such a significant occasion. This is where the allure of renting a whole house, like the exquisite Laurel Oak Estate or the charming Camellia Rose Mansion, truly shines.
If you are searching for luxury and large accommodations in Gainesville, FL, then you are looking for more than just a place to sleep. You need a space that can host a celebration.
Why Choose a Whole House Rental for UF Graduation?
Imagine arriving in Gainesville and stepping into a luxurious, private estate, rather than a cramped hotel room. Renting a whole house offers a plethora of advantages:
Spacious Accommodations:
Laurel Oak Estate and Camellia Rose Mansion boast multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, comfortably accommodating large families and groups. No more splitting up or struggling to find connecting rooms.
Private Event Space:
These properties often feature spacious living areas, dining rooms, and outdoor spaces that can be transformed into your own private graduation party venue. Host a celebratory dinner, a casual gathering, or a full-fledged graduation bash, all within the comfort of your rented home.
Home-Like Comforts:
Enjoy the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and comfortable living spaces. Prepare home-cooked meals, relax in the evenings, and create a truly personalized experience.
Privacy and Exclusivity:
Unlike hotels, these rentals offer complete privacy and exclusivity. You and your group will have the entire property to yourselves, allowing for uninterrupted celebrations and quality time together.
Central Location:
Both Laurel Oak Estate and Camellia Rose Mansion are strategically located, providing easy access to the University of Florida campus, downtown Gainesville, and other local attractions. No more long commutes or traffic hassles.
Cost-Effectiveness for Large Groups:
While the upfront cost of renting a whole house may seem higher than a hotel room, when divided among a large group, it often becomes a more cost-effective option.
Laurel Oak Estate: A Sanctuary of Elegance
Laurel Oak Estate is a true gem, offering a blend of elegance, comfort, and sophistication. With its 7 bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms, it's perfect for large families and groups seeking a luxurious retreat. The estate's spacious living areas, gourmet kitchen, and beautifully landscaped grounds provide the perfect setting for a memorable graduation celebration.
Imagine hosting a celebratory dinner in the grand dining room, or relaxing with friends and family on the spacious patio. The estate's dedicated event space allows you to host a graduation party tailored to your specific needs, with the flexibility to use your preferred caterer. This is a significant advantage over many hotel event spaces.
Camellia Rose Mansion: A Charming Southern Retreat
Camellia Rose Mansion exudes Southern charm and hospitality. Its beautifully appointed rooms, elegant décor, and inviting atmosphere create a warm and welcoming environment. This property is perfect for those seeking a more intimate and charming setting for their graduation celebration.
The mansion's spacious living areas and outdoor spaces provide ample room for gatherings and celebrations. Enjoy a leisurely brunch on the veranda, or host a casual gathering in the beautifully landscaped garden.
If you are searching for “Gainesville FL vacation home rental” or “event venue Gainesville FL,” then Camellia Rose Mansion is a great option.
Planning Your UF Graduation Weekend:
To make the most of your UF graduation weekend, here are some tips:
Book Early:
Graduation weekends are in high demand, so book your rental property well in advance.
Plan Your Celebrations:
Decide on the type of celebrations you want to host and plan accordingly. Contact caterers, decorators, and other service providers well in advance.
Explore Gainesville:
Take time to explore Gainesville and its attractions. Visit the University of Florida campus, explore downtown Gainesville, and enjoy the local dining scene.
Create Lasting Memories:
Capture the special moments of your graduation weekend with photos and videos.
StayGainesville Airbnb Gainesville FL: Beyond the Ordinary
Renting a whole house for UF graduation offers an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. It's an opportunity to create lasting memories, celebrate in style, and enjoy the comforts of home. Whether you choose the elegant Laurel Oak Estate or the charming Camellia Rose Mansion, you're sure to have a graduation weekend that you and your loved ones will cherish forever.
When you search for “Airbnb Gainesville FL” remember that these large home rentals offer a higher level of experience than a simple room. They offer an entire experience.
By choosing a whole house rental, you are investing in an experience, not just accommodation. You are creating a backdrop for memories that will last a lifetime. Make your UF graduation weekend truly unforgettable by choosing Laurel Oak Estate or Camellia Rose Mansion.
Call us at 352-519-3994 ext 1 or book online at www.staygainesville.com.

Gainesville, Florida, is a city that beautifully blends cultural richness with natural beauty. Whether you're attending a world-class athletic championship, exploring botanical gardens, or hosting a special event at a charming Inn, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit between March 17 and March 30, 2025, to experience the best of what Gainesville has to offer.

When it comes to finding the perfect short-term rental in Gainesville, FL, there’s only one name you need to know: StayGainesville. Whether you’re searching for an AirBNB in Gainesville for a weekend getaway, a business trip, or an extended stay, StayGainesville offers the best selection of vacation rentals in the area.

Choosing a private, historic inn over a standard hotel allows you to celebrate in style, enjoy luxurious amenities, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking for spacious accommodations, a cozy gathering space, or a convenient location near UF, these properties provide the perfect setting for an incredible graduation experience.

The Perfect Artists' Haven Why Gainesville? Gainesville, FL, offers a unique blend of nature and culture, making it the perfect city for artists seeking inspiration: Nature’s Beauty – From Paynes Prairie and the Sweetwater Wetlands to the picturesque trails of Devil’s Millhopper, Gainesville is full of breathtaking landscapes that inspire visual artists, writers, and musicians. Thriving Arts Scene – Home to The Hippodrome Theatre, the Harn Museum of Art, The Lynx Books, and an array of local galleries and markets, Gainesville fosters a deep appreciation for creativity. Community Support for the Arts – Regular art festivals, music events, and makers' markets provide artists with platforms to share and showcase their work. Why the Inns? Serene Setting – Nestled in Gainesville’s downtown historic district, these inns provide a peaceful retreat surrounded by century-old oak trees, lush gardens, and charming porches, perfect for quiet reflection. Elegant Accommodations – Spacious, beautifully decorated rooms create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, ideal for creative work and relaxation. Inspiring Spaces – Sun-drenched sitting rooms, wraparound porches, and garden nooks serve as natural studios for painters, writers, and musicians alike. Sense of Community – The layout of the inns allows for both privacy and social interaction, encouraging artistic collaboration through workshops, retreats, and creative gatherings. The inns are located next to each other, offering a combined 19 rooms: The Laurel Oak Inn – 7 rooms The Camellia Rose Inn – 7 rooms, 4 large one-bedroom apartments, and 1 studio The Laurel Oak Inn [Visit: www.laureloakinn.com ] The Laurel Oak Inn is a 5,700-square-foot historic Victorian home built in the 1880s. Fully restored in 2000 and upgraded again in 2018, it blends historic elegance with modern luxury. 7 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, all with en suite bathrooms First Floor: A bright gourmet kitchen, large casual sitting area, formal and informal dining rooms, a half-bath, and an ADA-compliant room Second Floor: 4 rooms, a spacious hallway, and laundry room Third Floor: A private 2-bedroom apartment with a kitchenette, office space, dining area, and living room Additional highlights: Original heart pine floors throughout 5 fireplaces (in 5 bedrooms, the living room, and the dining room) Spacious porches on the front and side, perfect for enjoying Florida’s warm shade Large backyard patio that seats up to 70 people Space available for the construction of a two-story ADU (architectural plans included) Parking for 7 cars, with additional free street parking The Camellia Rose Inn, The Hodges House & Spat's Hideaway [Visit: www.camelliaroseinn.com ] Built in 1903, the Camellia Rose Inn is a stunning Victorian home in Gainesville’s historic district. Restored in 2006, this charming retreat offers seven spacious bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom. Features of the Camellia Rose Inn Historic charm with original heart pine floors 5 fireplaces, adding warmth to the living room and guest rooms First Floor: Cozy kitchen area, grand foyer, spacious dining room, and two guest rooms (one ADA-compliant) Second Floor: Five beautifully appointed rooms, a large upper porch with rocking chairs, and a private porch with a bistro-style seating area Expansive wraparound porch – A favorite feature for guests, offering a tranquil setting for morning coffee, creative brainstorming, or simply enjoying the shade of the towering oak trees Lush gardens and greenery, creating an inspirational atmosphere for artists The Hodges House: Spacious Artist Apartments Adjacent to the inn, The Victorian Hodges House offers four large one-bedroom apartments, each with ample space, natural light, and private living areas, kitchens and bedrooms. These thoughtfully designed units provide extended-stay accommodations, making them perfect for visiting artists, writers, and musicians seeking a peaceful, fully furnished retreat. Spat’s Hideaway: A Cozy Private Studio For those looking for seclusion, Spat’s Hideaway is a charming studio apartment tucked away on the property. It includes: A private screened-in porch A whirlpool tub for relaxation A tranquil retreat while remaining steps away from the main inn’s community spaces The Camellia Rose Inn, Hodges House, and Spat’s Hideaway offer more than just accommodations—they provide a true escape into tranquility, history, and inspiration. With wide porches, intimate common areas, and lush surroundings, this property is the ideal setting for an artist retreat where creativity flourishes in Gainesville’s rich cultural and natural beauty. The Camellia Rose Inn property (8,400 square feet, 7 rooms, 4 large one-bedroom apartments, 1200+ SF of covered porch space, and a spacious studio): https://staygainesville.holidayfuture.com/listings/361700 The Laurel Oak Inn (5700 square feet, 7 rooms): https://staygainesville.holidayfuture.com/listings/360427