Copy of Transportation

Fly into North Central Florida

Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV)

GNV is Gainesville’s local airport, about 15–25 minutes from the UF campus by car (traffic dependent). It offers daily commercial service via major hubs.

Tip: If flights are limited, search roundtrips via large hubs and compare total travel time vs. driving from a larger airport.

Alternative Airports

These larger airports often have more nonstop options. Factor in rental car or shuttle time when comparing to GNV.

Rideshare and Taxis

Rideshare

  • Uber — available across Gainesville, including UF campus and GNV
  • Lyft — widely available; follow airport signage to Ride App Pickup areas

If traveling with children who need car seats, request services that support child seats or bring an approved travel seat.

Taxis

  • Licensed taxis typically queue at GNV near arrivals
  • Pre‑book for late-night or early-morning pickups
  • Ask for an estimated fare before departing

Availability may vary late at night; pre‑booking helps ensure timely pickup after evening flights.

Car Rentals

At the Airport

Major brands operate at GNV, JAX, MCO, and TPA. Book early for the best rates around popular event weekends.

Driving and Parking

Driving to Gainesville

  • Gainesville sits along the I‑75 corridor in North Central Florida
  • Allow extra time on Friday afternoon and Sunday when traffic is heaviest
  • Use your maps app to route to your first venue or hotel for the most accurate ETA

Parking near UF

  • Campus visitor parking is limited and may require a permit depending on the lot
  • Event communications will include recommended lots and any special instructions
  • Consider rideshare to evening events to simplify logistics

UF Transportation and Parking Services: taps.ufl.edu

Public Transit (Local)

City Buses (RTS Gainesville)

Gainesville’s local bus network serves many corridors around UF and downtown. Service levels vary by day and time.

  • Check schedules and plan your trip: go-rts.com
  • Review weekend and evening frequency before you go
  • Plan transfers ahead of time in your maps app

Campus Connections

Several routes serve the UF campus area. If you’re staying near Archer Road, Newberry Road, or downtown, you may have direct bus options.

Always verify the latest route maps and stop locations for the dates you plan to travel.

Intercity Bus and Rail Connections

Intercity Buses

Operators serving Florida corridors with connections to Gainesville (check current schedules and stop locations):

Compare travel time, arrival point, and last‑mile options (walk, bus, or rideshare) to your hotel or campus.

Rail (Nearest Amtrak)

Gainesville does not have an Amtrak station. Popular nearby stations:

  • Jacksonville, FL — Amtrak station (connect by car or bus)
  • Palatka, FL — regional option east of Gainesville

Plan and book: amtrak.com. Compare total time including the final leg to Gainesville.

Accessibility and Families

Accessible Travel

  • Most rideshare and taxi providers offer wheelchair‑accessible options with advance notice
  • Airports and hotels can assist with curbside support upon request
  • Event communications will include accessibility notes for venues

Traveling with Children

  • Confirm car seat policies with your transport provider
  • Consider larger vehicles (SUV/XL) for strollers and luggage

Helpful Planning Notes

  • Book flights and cars early; inventory tightens around event weekends
  • Build in buffer time around peak traffic windows
  • Confirm your ride pickup point at airports before requesting
  • Watch for AVLC emails with parking, drop‑off, and shuttle guidance

Links are provided for convenience; verify current schedules, routes, and policies before you travel.