"The 1895 home/Inn in which I stayed was absolutely gorgeous and was lovingly restored to its old world charm with all necessary modern amenities."
Marjorie from United States
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"The McKenzie house is by far the Crown Jewel at Sweetwater."
Adventure115383 from United States
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"Our cottage, Lily, was huge! Living room, kitchen, bedroom, porch with jacuzzi tub, large bathroom and large outdoor porch."
ron
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4-star Victorian inn in historic Gainesville
Accommodations
Sweetwater Branch Inn offers 29 uniquely designed accommodations, including rooms in the historic McKenzie House and Cushman-Colson House as well as fully furnished private cottages. Each unit features a king or queen-sized bed, private bathroom, and distinctive decor, showcasing the charm of Victorian architecture. Some cottages include amenities such as a kitchen, living room, and private outdoor spaces for added privacy.
Location
Nestled in historic downtown Gainesville, Sweetwater Branch Inn is just minutes away from the University of Florida and numerous local attractions. Surrounding McKenzie Gardens enhance the charm, creating a scenic backdrop for guests. The property is situated close to entertainment options, dining, and shopping, making it an accessible escape.
Weddings & Events
The hotel offers multiple event spaces, including the McKenzie Hall and McKenzie House, both hosting a range of gatherings, from weddings to receptions. McKenzie Hall accommodates up to 250 guests for sophisticated events and features access to gardens and patios for outdoor activities. Catering options include everything from hors d'oeuvres to full-service dining, ensuring a gratifying experience for all attendees.
Amenities
Guests can enjoy a saltwater pool and spa, enhanced by beautiful gardens and fountains scattered throughout the property. Sweetwater Branch Inn also offers on-site bike rentals, allowing guests to explore the surrounding downtown area. Other amenities include a gift shop featuring local crafts and handcrafted items for visitors to purchase.
Catering & Dining
The hotel operates its own catering service, providing freshly prepared cuisine for events and private dining options. Guests can indulge in a homemade breakfast each morning, featuring favorites like frittatas and pastries. Special picnic baskets for outdoor excursions ensure guests can enjoy meals while experiencing local parks.
Highlights
Location: historic downtown Gainesville, minutes from the University of Florida
Accommodations: 29 uniquely designed rooms and fully furnished private cottages
Weddings: indoor and outdoor venues, catering for up to 250 guests
Amenities: saltwater pool, spas, and gardens
Catering: delicious homemade breakfast and picnic basket options
Select your room type
The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Piccadilly Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet
1 Queen-size bed and 1 Double bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Cornelia Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet
1 Queen-size bed and 1 Single bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Aurora Room
2 persons
1 Queen-size bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Show all rooms
Room rates & availability calendar
See the best prices and book your dates today!
Amenities & services
Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
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
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
Theatre
Hippodrome State Theatre
2700 ft
Park
Depot Park
3900 ft
University
University of Florida
4900 ft
Landmark
The Historic Thomas Center
1.0 mi
Museum
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
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
Stephen C. O'Connell Center
2.0 mi
Landmark
Publix Super Market at University Village Market
1.2 mi
Park
A Nan Buddhist Statue Park
1.5 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
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
A historic site showcasing local history, with free admission and engaging exhibits for all ages.
Historic Matheson House
5 minutes' walk
This preserved house highlights the region's heritage, featuring guided tours that delve into Gainesville's past.
Depot Park
15 minutes' walk
A scenic park perfect for picnics and play, with beautiful landscaping and a children's playground to enjoy.
Black C Art Gallery
9 minutes' walk
A local treasure featuring diverse artwork, ideal for art lovers seeking unique pieces from regional artists.
Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail
7 minutes' drive
A 16-mile trail for biking and hiking enthusiasts, perfect for outdoor adventures and enjoying nature.
Yoga at Sweetwater Park
7 minutes' walk
Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions available weekly in a picturesque setting, suitable for all skill levels.
Relish Downtown
9 minutes' walk
A vibrant spot serving American cuisine with farm-to-table ingredients; vegetarian options available.
Steamers
8 minutes' walk
Fish and seafood specialties in a casual atmosphere, known for their fresh catch and friendly service.
The Hippodrome Theatre
5 minutes' drive
An iconic venue featuring indie films and live performances, with a cozy atmosphere perfect for date night.
High Dive
15 minutes' drive
A lively music venue known for local bands and weekly events; enjoy an energetic night out in Gainesville.
Getting around town
City Centre
Gainesville 9 min · 2300 ft
Airports
Gainesville Regional (GNV) 12 min · 4.8 mi
Bus
Bus stop 2 min · 400 ft
Looking for early-bird discounts?
Get special discounted rates today!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:00
Check-out
from 06:00-11:00
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
What past guests shared about their stay
Cleanliness
9.7/10
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
9.4/10
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 Queen-size bed and 1 Double bedAir conditioningHeatingroom details
Cornelia Room2 persons250 sq. feet1 Queen-size bed and 1 Single bedAir conditioningHeatingroom details
Aurora Room2 persons1 Queen-size bedAir conditioningHeatingroom details
Guest reviews
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