"The Garden is beautiful. Bikes where fun to ride, Fire pit was cozy."
Loretta from United States
read full review
"So, so quiet. Couldn't even tell others were staying there until breakfast."
Anita from United States
read full review
"very clean, charming Victorian houses and cottages and furniture, beautiful gardens."
Pegge D from United States
read full review
"This is the most amazing accommodation!! It's sweet, quaint, exceptionally clean and the service is phenomenal!"
LoisC from United States
read full review
Historic Victorian Inn with Saltwater Pool in Downtown Gainesville
Accommodations
Sweetwater Branch Inn consists of restored Victorian houses and private cottages, including the Cushman-Colson House, McKenzie House, Sarah's Cottage, Lily's Cottage, and Mae's Cottage. Each of the 26 rooms has its own distinct decor and configuration, from the Heirloom Suite with a balcony to the Garden Cottage set by itself. Several cottages come with full kitchens, living rooms, and porches; the Family Bungalow seats six in its dining room and has two and a half bathrooms.
Amenities and Wellness
The property has a heated saltwater pool, a hot tub, and spa facilities with wellness packages available. Guests can use the free bicycles, the shared kitchen with outdoor fireplace, and the picnic area. An electric vehicle charging station and free on-site parking are provided.
Dining
A complimentary homemade breakfast is served each morning, with options like french toast casserole, eggs, sausage, oatmeal, granola, fruit, pastries, yogurt, and vegan dishes. Special diet menus are available upon request. In the evening, the hotel offers a complimentary wine and cheese hour.
Location and Activities
Sweetwater Branch Inn is located in historic downtown Gainesville, a 17-minute walk from the University of Florida and 200 metres from the Matheson Historical Center. Depot Park and the Cade Museum are within walking distance, and Kanapaha Botanical Gardens are a short drive away. Guests can also borrow bikes to explore the nearby scenic bike path.
Pet-Friendly and Family-Friendly Policies
The hotel is pet-friendly, with certain rooms and private cottages allowing dogs. Families can use the board games, the outdoor pool, and the garden with picnic tables. Cots and extra beds are offered in family rooms that accommodate children.
Highlights
Location: Historic downtown, 17-min walk to University of Florida
Rooms: 26 historic rooms and themed cottages with kitchens
Dining: Homemade breakfast, wine and cheese hour, special diet menus
Wellness: Saltwater pool, hot tub, spa facilities, wellness packages
Services: Free bikes, EV charging station, shared kitchen
Pet-friendly: Select rooms and cottages allow dogs
Family-friendly: Family rooms, board games, picnic area
Must-do experiences
Stroll through the beautiful Kanapaha Botanical Gardens for serenity.
Sample locally brewed beers at the First Magnitude Brewing Company.
Visit the Gainesville Farmers Market on Wednesdays for fresh produce.
Explore the interactive exhibits at the Florida Museum of Natural History.
Take a scenic hike at Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park.
Select your room type
Sweetwater Branch Inn offers a range of rooms across the Sunshine State — from double rooms to family suites — complete with breakfast, flexible cancellations, and seasonal deals for your Florida stay
Piccadilly Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Cornelia Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Aurora Room
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
Amenities
Sweetwater Branch Inn offers amenities for your Florida getaway, from theme park days to coastal escapes
Facilities: Perfect
9.6/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Luggage storage
Fireplace
Electric vehicle charging station
Sports & Fitness
Canoeing
Cycling
Golf course
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Services
Laundry
Welcome drink
Dining
Picnic area/ Tables
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Board games
Spa & Leisure
Saltwater pool
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area
Spa & wellness centre
Jacuzzi
Massage
Room features
Air conditioning
Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Shared kitchen
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Parquet floor
Show more
Sweetwater Branch Inn Location
625 East University Avenue, Gainesville, 32601,
Map view
City landmarks
Park
Depot Park
3900 ft
Landmark
The Historic Thomas Center
1.0 mi
Museum
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
1.5 mi
University
University of Florida
1.5 mi
Landmark
Black C Art Gallery
2400 ft
Landmark
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
1.8 mi
Landmark
Flashbacks Recycled Fashions
4800 ft
Landmark
Publix Super Market at University Village Market
1.2 mi
Park
A Nan Buddhist Statue Park
1.5 mi
Landmark
Stephen C. O'Connell Center
2.0 mi
Landmark
University of Florida Panama Canal Museum
1.5 mi
Store
Ward's Supermarket
1.7 mi
Landmark
Sweetwater Preserve
1.6 mi
Landmark
Artisan's Guild Gallery
1.9 mi
Landmark
Alfred A. McKethan Stadium
2.1 mi
Nature reserve
Sweetwater Wetlands Park
2.4 mi
Landmark
Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail
2.2 mi
Landmark
Boulware Springs Water Works
2.2 mi
Farm
Living History Farm at Morningside Nature Center
2.3 mi
Landmark
Morningside Nature Center
2.3 mi
Park
Boulware Springs Park
2.2 mi
Park
Alfred A Ring Park
2.3 mi
Landmark
Katie Seashole Pressly Softball Stadium
2.9 mi
Landmark
Hogtown Creek hiking
2.8 mi
Landmark
Lake Alice Field
2.3 mi
Landmark
Bivens Arm Nature Park
2.4 mi
Landmark
Bivens Arm
2.4 mi
Nearby
Museum
Matheson Historical Center
1900 ft
528 SE 1st Ave
Historic Matheson House
1200 ft
532 SE 2nd Ave
Sweetwater Park
1700 ft
Restaurants
Steamers
2000 ft
104 SE 1st Ave
Relish Downtown
2300 ft
201 SE 2nd Ave Ste 106
Sababa
2400 ft
101 SE 2nd Pl Suite 108
Starbucks
2500 ft
201 SE 1st St
Big Lou's Pizzeria
2600 ft
5 SE 2nd Ave
The Midnight
2800 ft
223 S Main St
Explore Gainesville
Explore Gainesville
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Matheson Historical Center
7 minutes' walk
Historical exhibitions showcase Gainesville's past, and the Victorian architecture is a sight in itself. Free admission on Sundays.
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
5-minute drive
An engaging museum focused on innovation and creativity. Features interactive exhibits that cater to all ages. Great for families.
University of Florida
6-minute drive
A renowned campus with beautiful architecture and gardens. Visitors can stroll around or attend various public events throughout the year.
Depot Park
15 minutes' walk
A vibrant park with trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Hosts events and offers a lovely lake view for relaxation.
Sweetwater Preserve
5-minute drive
A natural area with trails for hiking and biking. Perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure. Open year-round, no reservation needed.
Yoga at Sunflower Yoga
10 minutes' walk
A local studio offering classes for all levels. Notable for its calming atmosphere and variety of classes. Drop-ins welcome!
Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail
7-minute drive
Ideal for cycling or walking, this scenic trail spans miles through lush nature. Rentals available nearby for thrill-seekers.
Relish Downtown
9 minutes' walk
Casual dining with an extensive burger menu. Known for local craft beers and a lively atmosphere. Reservations recommended for weekends.
Steamers
8 minutes' walk
Seafood restaurant with a relaxed vibe. Signature dishes include fresh fish and shellfish. Great for families and seafood lovers.
Sababa
9 minutes' walk
Mediterranean eatery known for falafel and shawarma. Inviting atmosphere with vegetarian-friendly options. Perfect for casual dining.
The Hippodrome Theatre
5-minute drive
A historic theater showcasing indie films and live performances. Offers weekly events, perfect for couples or solo outings.
High Dive
10-minute drive
A popular music venue with an energetic vibe. Regular live music shows appeal to night owls and all-ages events.
Gainesville Comedy Showcase
10 minutes' drive
A fun night out for laughter with local comedians. Family-friendly shows on select nights make it a great choice for all.
Getting around Florida
City Centre
Gainesville 9 min · 2300 ft
Airports
Gainesville Regional (GNV) 12 min · 4.8 mi
Bus
Bus stop 2 min · 400 ft
Want to Unlock an Early Booking Rate for Your Florida Stay?
Get exclusive rates right now!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:00
Check-out
from 06:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
Spanish, Italian
Number of rooms:
26
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Sweetwater Branch Inn from previous guests about their experience.
Cleanliness
9.8/10
Comfort
9.7/10
Facilities
9.6/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.6/10
Location
9.6/10
Staff
9.8/10
Value for money
9.5/10
Pros
Excellent breakfast
Charming atmosphere
Helpful staff
Well kept grounds
Cons
Room temperature issues
Shower water pressure
Parking difficulties
Guest reviews
based on 217 reviews
9.6/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Piccadilly Room2 persons250 sq. feet1 King-size bedAir conditioningHeatingroom details
Cornelia Room2 persons250 sq. feet1 King-size bedAir conditioningHeatingroom details
Aurora Room2 persons1 King-size bedAir conditioningHeatingroom details
Guest reviews
Red Roof Inn Plus + Gainesville
Woodspring Suites Gainesville I-75
Aloft By Marriott Gainesville University Area
Baymont By Wyndham Gainesville I-75
Comfort Suites Ocala North
Holiday Inn Express Crystal River By Ihg
Econo Lodge Crystal River
Hom Hotel Gainesville, Surestay Collection By Best Western
Red Roof Inn Ocala
Residence Inn By Marriott Ocala