We had an impromptu overnight in Gainesville Florida due to a missing rental car. Because we didn’t have a car, I chose to stay right in the center of Downtown Gainesville at the Hampton Inn. Then we could walk to a few things for breakfast and lunch. Then once our car was ready, we could head to our destination. I’ve stayed in Gainesville before at the DoubleTree(full review here), but for this trip I wanted to be able to walk.
If I have to visit Gainesville again, I’d gladly stay here again, there’s something that’s just great about staying downtown, even when it’s Downtown Gainesville.
Bottom Line: The Hampton Inn Gainesville Downtown was a great hotel. The room was clean and comfortable, the location was near plenty of walking destinations, and the morning breakfast was better than expected. This isn’t a ultra modern or deluxe hotel, it’s still a Hampton Inn, but it’s very solid for visiting Gainesville.
Hampton Inn Gainesville FL Downtown Location
I’ll be honest, I’ve never really explored Gainesville. I’ve visited here a few times for various reasons, but haven’t been around Downtown Gainesville. After this stay I can say it’s a cute little area. There’s shops and restaurants, the center is very walk-able small town. I was surprised at how nice the area was. The Hampton Inn Downtown Gainesville is right in the center of it all.
The Hampton Inn Downtown Gainesville is on the corner of 1st Street and 1st Ave. Hard to be much more center of town than that. From here I was able to walk to breakfast and lunch while I was working. I didn’t have a car(due to the incompetence of Hertz). The Hampton Inn is very close to The University of Florida, making it convenient for visitors to the university. I’m sure on Game weekends or Graduations this hotel is slammed.
Hampton Inn Gainesville FL Downtown Lobby
The Lobby of the Hampton Inn Downtown Gainesville is pretty standard for a Hampton Inn. The front desk is to the right. Next to that there is a small shop with snacks and drinks. We arrived late, got our keys, and headed up to the room.
Hampton Inn Gainesville FL Downtown Two Queen Bed
Usually when it’s Val and I, a single king bed is better. But this was a last minute reservation so I’ll talk whatever I can get for the best price. That happens to be 2 queen beds. The room at the Hampton Gainesville isn’t remarkable, but it was very clean. I’ll take that.
I did find the beds to be very comfortable and I liked the pillows. There’s only one night stand in-between the two beds so if you have two people in a bed, they both won’t have a place to charge a phone.
Across from the bed is a built in desk. More than enough for a little bit of work.
Next to the desk the Hampton Inn has the TV, microwave, and fridge. There’s also a luggage rack/bench.
Hampton Inn Gainesville FL Downtown Bathroom
The bathroom at the Hampton Gainesville does date the hotel, but it’s not worn out or beat up. It’s just a little old fashion. The cleaning staff should be proud though, like the rest of the room, the bathroom was very clean and well stocked.
Not my favorite, there’s a tub and shower at the Hampton Gainesville Downtown.
Hampton Inn Gainesville FL Downtown Breakfast
On the second floor of the Hampton Inn Downtown there is a complementary breakfast. I wasn’t expecting much, but I wanted a quick bit.
The offering was pretty standard for a Hampton Inn. A few hot offerings and then some cold selections as well.
I again have to commend the staff, the breakfast was well stocked and the area was clean. It’s a Hampton Inn, not a 5 star hotel, with that in mind, the breakfast was good.
Val in particular liked the mini waffles and 2 different types of batter. I’m more of a fruit and pastry type of person so we both got exactly what we wanted.
Hampton Inn Gainesville FL Downtown Final Thoughts
Ok, it’s a Hampton Inn. But it’s located right in the center of Gainesville Florida’s downtown. The hotel is clean, comfortable, and quiet. The staff we interacted with at the front desk and breakfast area were pleasant and helpful. But really, the best part if this hotel is the location. Right in the middle of Downtown and allows you to walk for bars, restaurants, and cafes.
If you’re visiting Gainesville for the University of Florida, it’s just down the street. During a Gameday Weekend or Graduation, the Hampton Inn would be a good choice. When last in Gainesville, I stayed at the DoubleTree(See Full Review). I think the Hampton Inn Downtown is a better location, but the DoubleTree was a slightly nicer hotel. Take your pick, both Hilton options are good.