Gainesville, FL is a city teeming with life and color. From its vibrant arts scene to its eclectic mix of people from all walks of life students, artists, musicians, activists theres something here for everyone. But what about those who seek out the sacred and spiritual? Fear not! There are plenty of places in Gainesville that will satisfy even the most discerning seeker.
First on our list is Kanapaha Botanical Gardens (4700 SW 58th Dr., Gainesville). While it may seem strange to include a botanical garden on this list, Kanapaha has a special place in many locals hearts as a place where one can connect with nature and find inner peace. In addition to its vast array of plants from around the world, there are several meditation spots located throughout the gardens that offer an opportunity to quiet your mind amidst lush greenery.
Next up is The Hare Krishna Temple (214 NW 14th St., Gainesville). This Hindu temple offers daily devotional services including kirtan (chanting), classes on yoga philosophy and vegetarian cooking as well as delicious vegan meals served every Sunday. Visitors are welcome to join in singing or dancing during their weekly ceremonies or simply observe quietly while taking in the beautiful altar adorned with intricate murals depicting stories from ancient Hindu texts.
For those interested in exploring more esoteric traditions, look no further than Little Schoolhouse Spiritual Center (1605 NE 23rd Ave., Gainesville). This new age bookstore specializes in metaphysical literature but also offers psychic readings by appointment as well as workshops on topics ranging from crystal healing to past life regression therapy.
Moving away from specifically religious spaces and institutions but still celebrating spirituality is Cymplify Coffee Shoppe & Bookstore (5408 NW 8th Ave., Gainesville). Here, visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while browsing new and used books on topics ranging from mindfulness to world religions. The friendly staff is always ready to engage in thoughtful discussions about spirituality and the meaning of life.
Our final stop is at San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park (12720 NW 109 Ln., Alachua), just outside Gainesville city limits. This hidden gem offers miles of hiking trails through lush oak hammocks where one can immerse oneself in nature and find peace away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Whether youre a longtime spiritual seeker or simply curious about exploring different traditions, theres something for everyone in Gainesville, FL. Underneath this seemingly bohemian exterior lies a deep reverence for all things sacred come see it for yourself!
Websites:
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens: https://kanapaha.org/
Hare Krishna Temple: http://www.iskcongainesville.org/
Little Schoolhouse Spiritual Center: https://www.littleschoolhousespiritualcenter.com/index.html
Cymplify Coffee Shoppe & Bookstore: https://cymplifycoffee.com/
San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park: https://floridastateparks.org/park/SanFelascoHammock
Twitter Names:
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens @kanapahagardens
Hare Krishna Temple @iskcon_gnv
Little Schoolhouse Spiritual Center N/A
Cymplify Coffee Shoppe & Bookstore N/A
San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park @FLStateParks
4700 Sw 58Th Dr.
Gainesville, FL
United States
214 Nw 14Th St.
Gainesville, FL
United States
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Chanting, FL
United States
1605 Ne 23Rd Ave.
Gainesville, FL
United States
5408 Nw 8Th Ave.
Gainesville, FL
United States
12720 Nw 109 Ln.
Alachua, FL
United States