When I think of spring, I think of blooming flowers, breezy days and new beginnings. This season is the time to get outside, try something new and soak up what Gainesville has to offer. Here are some ideas to make your spring season a great one. Â
1. Go on a walk at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
We’re finally out of the freeze, but haven’t yet gotten to our usual Florida heat, so right now is the perfect time to take a scenic stroll. With seasonal blooms, bamboo groves and water gardens, it’s a peaceful escape from campus life and a great spot to slow down for an afternoon.
2. Play with kittens at the Humane Society
It’s officially kitten season! There are several adorable kittens at the Humane Society of North Central Florida just waiting for a home. Visitors are able to stop by to visit the kittens and play with the equally loveable adult cats. Who knows? Maybe you just might be compelled to foster or adopt a cute kitten!Â
3. Get flowers from Trader Joe’s
Nothing freshens up a space like a vase of flowers. Trader Joe’s has some super cute bouquet options that range from $3.99 to $12.99. My favorite are their tulips!
4. Grow your own herbs
Along the same thread as flowers, maybe you want to try growing something of your own. Herbs are a great way to start developing a green thumb since they’re generally easy to grow and low-maintenance. The best part is that you get to completely reap what you sow (literally!) and add a well-earned sprinkle of herbs to your cooking.Â
5. Make some art at the Reitz Union’s Arts and Crafts Center
Spring is the perfect time to try out a new hobby or revisit ones you used to love. The arts and crafts studio at the Reitz Union provides supplies like throwing wheels, clay creations you can paint on, acrylics, watercolors and sewing machines. It’s both cathartic and refreshing to make something of your own.Â
6. Visit the Lynx bookstore and go to a book club
I’m all for supporting independent booksellers, and we’re lucky to have such a lively local bookstore that not only has amazing Instagram-post-worthy vibes inside, but also hosts numerous events, including book clubs of various genres. Whether you like sci-fi, queer lit or want to dive into banned books, there’s a book club for you!
7. Explore Grove Street Farmer’s Market
Of course, no spring bucket list would be complete without perusing a farmers’ market. Held on Mondays, Grove Street Farmers Market is where you can grab fresh produce, local honey, baked goods and handmade crafts. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a great place to wander, listen to live music and enjoy a relaxed Gainesville evening.Â
Spring is short and sweet, and amidst classes, meetings and responsibilities, it only goes by faster. Even if it’s just an hour in your day, it’s finding little adventures and seeking out new experiences that can make daily life feel a bit more special this spring.Â