Sweetwater Branch Inn Gainesville Exterior photoSweetwater Branch Inn Gainesville Exterior photoSweetwater Branch Inn Gainesville Exterior photo
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From194US$ /night
Check-in
19Apr2026Select date
Check-out
20Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Property overview

625 East University Avenue, Gainesville, Florida, United States, 32601
-
Close to historic downtown Gainesville
Perfect
9.6
9.7
/10
4.7
4.8
/5

Rooms and Cottages

Sweetwater Branch Inn provides rooms and cottages, each uniquely decorated. Rooms are located in the Cushman House and the McKenzie House. Cottages feature full kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms, and outdoor areas; some are pet-friendly. The Rochelle Room recalls North Florida's orange gold rush. The Windsor Cottage highlights southern hospitality with hardwood floors. Annie's Room in Nora Belle's Cottage is outfitted in green with a clawfoot tub. Rosa's Room is decorated in warm brown and red. Rooms feature king or queen beds, private bathrooms, and views. Select rooms include fireplaces, Persian rugs, Italian chandeliers, and spa baths. The Blue Moon Room includes low ceilings, a sitting nook, and a French Provincial queen-size bed. Tiffany Suite features a queen-size Victorian mansion pillowtop bed. Heirloom Suite features a queen-size Victorian roll-top bed and a sunroom. The Cornelia Room offers a quilted maple queen-sized pencil post bed and a spacious walk-in shower. Select rooms have wrap-around porches, hot tubs, sunrooms, or window seats with koi pond views. Amenities include individual air conditioning/heat, flat-screen cable television, and Wi-Fi. Bathrooms provide walk-in showers or Jacuzzi tubs and William Roam soaps.

Breakfast & Catering

The Sweetwater Branch Inn serves a homemade breakfast with frittatas, French toast casserole, bacon, ham, fresh fruit, pastries, coffee, tea, and orange juice. The Sweetwater Catering Company offers catering services for events, including weddings, luncheons, and dinners. Options range from light fare to buffets and sit-down dining, with custom menus available. The company also provides boxed lunches and drop-off services. Private romantic dinners with a personal chef can be arranged in the McKenzie House dining room, covered porches, or gardens.

Leisure and Amenities

Sweetwater Branch Inn features a saltwater pool and spa, a putting green, and gardens. Guests can rent bikes. The inn includes parlors, a library of books and games, and reverse osmosis water coolers. A gift shop offers hand-crafted soaps, local authors, and souvenirs. There are also Tesla chargers available for guest use. Pets are limited to Cottages (excluding the Honeymoon Cottage).

Location and Access

Sweetwater Branch Inn is located in downtown Gainesville, minutes from the University of Florida, Shands Hospital, the Cade Museum, and Depot Park. It is 5 km from Gainesville Regional. Nearby attractions include Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, local breweries, restaurants, and natural springs. The inn is near Sweetwater Park (0.5 km), Flashbacks Recycled Fashions (1 km), and Depot Park (1 km). The McKenzie House is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.

Services Offered

The Sweetwater Branch Inn provides event planning and catering services. The McKenzie Hall hosts up to 250 guests for hors d'oeuvres and 180 for sit-down dinners. The inn offers event coordination, and a selection of linens, tables, and chairs. WiFi is available, and there is parking. Alachua County Public Schools District Office provides free parking. The staff at Sweetwater Catering Co adept at handling hospitality needs. Some accessible lodging is available. Lilly's and Victoria's Cottages offer ramp access.

“In my opinion, this is a Victorian property with charm and historical significance. From what I explored, the homemade breakfasts and scenic gardens create a relaxing atmosphere, while the pet-friendly cottages offer a unique stay. I think its proximity to the University of Florida adds to its appeal for visitors.”
Hotel logo
David MillerEditor, UsFlorida
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Choose your preferred room

The property features double rooms, family rooms, and suites, often including breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers
Carriage House
2 persons
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Piccadilly Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Cornelia Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Heirloom Room
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Calendar of room availability and rates

See current availability and pricing for your dates

Facilities

Amenities are designed to ensure comfort and memorable stays
Facilities: Perfect
9.6/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Luggage storage
  • Fireplace
  • Electric vehicle charging station

Sports & Fitness

  • Canoeing
  • Cycling
  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Shared kitchen
  • Electric kettle

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
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Sweetwater Branch Inn Location

625 East University Avenue, Gainesville, Florida, United States, 32601
Map view
625 East University Avenue, Gainesville, Florida, United States, 32601
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
Matheson Historical Center
7 minutes walking
Local history exhibits featured in a historic home. Great for insight into Gainesville's past.
Depot Park
Depot Park
15 minutes walking
A scenic park with walking trails, a lake, and event space. Offers free admission and family-friendly activities.
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
5 minutes driving
Innovative museum focused on creativity and invention, featuring hands-on exhibits for all ages.
Historic Thomas Center
5 minutes driving
Historic site showcasing art exhibits in a beautiful garden setting. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Sweetwater Preserve Hiking
30 minutes walking
Hiking trails suitable for all levels with beautiful scenery. Access via a short ride or walk from the hotel.
Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail
Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail
7 minutes driving
A multi-use trail perfect for biking and jogging. Rentals available nearby for equipment.
Yoga at Morningside Nature Center
10 minutes driving
Outdoor yoga sessions in a serene setting, ideal for relaxation. Check for class schedules.
Relish Downtown
Relish Downtown
9 minutes walking
Charming atmosphere with gourmet burgers and vegetarian options. Reservations recommended.
Steamers
Steamers
8 minutes walking
Fresh seafood and unique dishes with a laid-back vibe. Known for its local ingredients.
Sababa
Sababa
9 minutes walking
Mediterranean cuisine in a cozy setting. Great for casual dining with vegetarian options.
The Hippodrome Theatre
12 minutes walking
Local theater with plays, films, and events in a historic setting. Offers family-friendly shows.
The Heartwood Soundstage
10 minutes driving
Live music venue featuring local bands and artists. A great spot for a lively night out.
Local transportation
City Centre
Gainesville9 min  ·  2300 ft
Airports
Gainesville Regional (GNV)12 min  ·  4.8 mi
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  400 ft
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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 for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Sweetwater Branch Inn guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
Spanish, Italian
Number of rooms:
23

Guest ratings and reviews

Guest feedback from past stays
Review score
Based on 229 verified reviews
9.7/10
Perfect
97%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.9/10
Cleanliness
9.7/10
Comfort
9.6/10
Facilities
9.6/10
Free Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Location
9.7/10
Paid Wi-Fi
2.5/10
Staff
9.8/10
Value for money
9.5/10
Pros
Quiet atmosphere
Beautiful cottages
Tasty breakfast
Cozy living room
Full kitchen
Cons
Rude staff
Broken straps
Guest reviews
based on 212 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.
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FAQs
About Sweetwater Branch Inn
What popular attractions are near Sweetwater Branch Inn?
Nearby attractions include the University of Florida (2 km), Matheson Historical Center (1 km), and Cade Museum (approximately 8 km).
What are the check-in and check-out times at Sweetwater Branch Inn?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at Sweetwater Branch Inn?
Free private parking is available on-site without a reservation.
What room amenities can guests expect at Sweetwater Branch Inn?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs.
Does Sweetwater Branch Inn provide breakfast?
Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast featuring dishes like frittatas, French toast casserole, and fresh fruit.
What recreational activities does Sweetwater Branch Inn offer?
Guests can engage in mini-golf, cycling, and enjoy the saltwater pool on-site.
Is there an on-site spa at Sweetwater Branch Inn?
The hotel features a spa center with a hot tub, massage services, and wellness packages.
What dining options are available near Sweetwater Branch Inn?
Nearby restaurants include Steamers, The Bagel Bakery, and Patticakes on the Plaza, all within 0.5 km.
Does Sweetwater Branch Inn have facilities for business travelers?
The inn includes a business center equipped with computers and free internet access.
Are pets allowed at Sweetwater Branch Inn?
Pets are allowed on request, with applicable charges.
What are the highlights of Sweetwater Branch Inn?
Highlights include a saltwater pool, gardens, free bike rentals, and an evening wine and cheese hour.
How far is Sweetwater Branch Inn from Gainesville Regional Airport?
The hotel is located 6 km from Gainesville Regional Airport.

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