Short-Term Rentals for Medical Travel in Gainesville
Comfortable, private housing options for patients, families, and healthcare professionals
When medical care brings you to Gainesville, finding a calm, comfortable place to stay can make all the difference. Whether you're traveling for treatment, supporting a loved one at UF Health, or relocating temporarily for a healthcare assignment, StayGainesville offers short-term housing designed with peace of mind in mind.
UF Health Shands is one of the top-ranked hospitals in Florida, attracting patients, providers, and researchers from across the state and beyond. But hospital visits — especially longer ones — can be stressful. That’s why more medical travelers are choosing fully furnished vacation rentals over hotels.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits of short-term rentals near UF Health, what to look for in medical housing, and why StayGainesville is Gainesville’s top-rated choice for hospital stays.
🏥 Why Stay Near UF Health?
Located in the heart of Gainesville, UF Health Shands Hospital is a nationally recognized academic medical center. People come for:
Complex surgeries and long-term treatment
Pediatric and neonatal care
Cancer treatment at UF Health Cancer Center
Clinical trials and research programs
Training, residency, and short-term work assignments
Whatever brings you here, proximity to the hospital matters. Being close allows patients and families to avoid traffic, reduce stress, and spend more time resting or recovering.
🏡 Why Choose a Vacation Rental Over a Hotel?
Staying in a vacation rental — especially during a hospital stay — offers more than just a place to sleep. It gives you the flexibility and space to live normally while dealing with abnormal circumstances.
Here’s why short-term rentals are ideal for medical travel:
✅ Peace, Privacy & Comfort
Unlike noisy hotels with shared hallways, a private home or condo offers quiet, controlled space to decompress — which is essential during recovery or emotional stress.
✅ Fully Furnished Kitchens
Prepare meals that meet specific dietary needs, brew your own coffee, or store medications safely in a refrigerator — no need to eat out for every meal.
✅ In-Unit Laundry
Most StayGainesville properties offer washer/dryer access, ideal for longer stays, families, or patients who need to manage cleanliness daily.
✅ Dedicated Parking
Avoid parking garages and long walks — our homes include free, off-street parking close to the front door.
✅ Flexible Length of Stay
Whether you need a week, a month, or longer, we offer flexible stays without long-term lease contracts.
👪 Who Our Medical Housing Serves
🧍♂️ Patients & Families
Recovering from procedures at UF Health Shands
Pediatric patients needing family support nearby
Families with NICU stays or extended treatments
👩⚕️ Traveling Nurses & Medical Staff
Housing for short-term contracts, rotations, or residencies
Easy access to UF Health, VA Hospital, and North Florida Regional Medical Center
🧑🔬 Medical Students & Researchers
Visiting scholars and fellows at UF Health and the University of Florida College of Medicine
Interns and medical students seeking quiet study space and convenience
🏠 Featured Properties Near UF Health
StayGainesville offers a wide range of homes and condos within minutes of UF Health Shands. Here are a few popular options:
🏡 Shands Serenity House – 2BR, 1BA
Less than 1 mile to UF Health
Cozy bungalow with fenced yard and front porch
Fully stocked kitchen and laundry area
Ideal for patient recovery or long-term medical stays
🏙 Downtown Medical Condo – 1BR, 1BA
Walkable to UF Health and VA Medical Center
Modern furnishings, fast Wi-Fi, and workspace
Gated parking and elevator access
Perfect for traveling nurses or solo medical travelers
🏡 Family Comfort Home – 3BR, 2BA
5 minutes from Shands and UF
Full kitchen, 2 living spaces, washer/dryer
Great for families supporting loved ones in care
🌟 Benefits of Booking with StayGainesville
We know medical travel is often unexpected or urgent. That’s why our team is here to help with:
🕘 Flexible Check-in
Many of our homes offer same-day or next-day availability, and we can accommodate changing travel dates.
📦 Fully Stocked Homes
From bedding and towels to cookware and cleaning supplies, all essentials are provided so you can settle in immediately.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Options
Many of our homes allow pets, so you can bring your emotional support animal or family dog with you.
👩💼 Dedicated Local Support
Have a question, need more supplies, or want help choosing the right home? Our Gainesville-based team is here 24/7.
💰 Affordable Rates & Direct Booking Discounts
Medical stays can get expensive — especially if hotels are your only option. StayGainesville offers more space for less money, especially for weekly or monthly visits.
Book directly at StayGainesville.com and use code DIRECT10 to save 10%
No third-party fees or surprise charges — just transparent pricing and reliable service
🗣 Real Guest Feedback
"We stayed while my husband recovered from surgery at UF Health. The home was spotless, quiet, and so much better than a hotel. We were able to cook, rest, and feel like we were in a real home."
— Karen M., Tampa
"As a traveling nurse, I’ve used StayGainesville several times. The homes are always clean, Wi-Fi is strong, and the locations are safe and close to work."
— Andrea G., Jacksonville
"My daughter had a long NICU stay. Being 2 minutes from the hospital made all the difference. Thank you for being flexible and compassionate."
— Talia S., West Palm Beach
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How close are StayGainesville properties to UF Health?
Most are within a 5- to 10-minute drive, with some walkable options available depending on your needs. Our team can recommend the best fit based on your appointment location and schedule.
Are StayGainesville homes safe for post-surgery recovery?
Yes. We offer single-story, step-free entries, private spaces with no shared walls, and quiet residential neighborhoods — perfect for patients recovering from surgery or medical procedures.
Can I book for more than a month?
Absolutely. We offer monthly and extended-stay rates for patients, healthcare workers, and families. Contact us directly for availability and custom pricing.
Do you offer discounts for medical stays?
Yes! Use promo code DIRECT10 for 10% off your booking, and inquire about special rates for travel nurses or multi-week stays.
Are any of your rentals pet-friendly?
Yes. We have a selection of pet-friendly homes with fenced yards and pet-safe surfaces. Please notify us in advance so we can match you with the right property.
What’s included in a medical housing rental?
All StayGainesville properties include:
Fully equipped kitchen
Linens, towels, and toiletries
Smart TVs and Wi-Fi
Laundry machines
Parking
Local support
🏡 The Right Home When You Need It Most
Medical travel can be overwhelming, but your housing doesn’t have to be. With a StayGainesville rental, you can focus on what matters — healing, supporting, or working — while we handle the rest.
Explore our short-term rentals near UF Health at www.staygainesville.com, or contact our team for compassionate, personalized help.
Stay calm. Stay close. StayGainesville.
Looking for a comfortable, stylish, and well-located place to stay in Gainesville, Florida? Whether you're in town for a medical appointment, a University of Florida event, or a relaxing getaway, StayGainesville offers over 40 fully furnished short-term rentals in Gainesville, FL that feel like home.
🌿 Ultimate Guide to Nature Attractions Near Gainesville, FL Gainesville and its surrounding areas are rich in natural beauty, offering a diverse array of parks, springs, gardens, and waterways to explore. Whether you're interested in hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the outdoors, there's something for everyone. 🌳 City Parks in Gainesville 1. Alfred A. Ring Park * 📍 Address: 1801 NW 23rd Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32605 * 🌐 Website: City of Gainesville Parks * 📝 Features: Over a mile of trails through upland mixed forest and slope forest, tracing the course of Hogtown Creek. 2. Depot Park * 📍 Address: 874 SE 4th St, Gainesville, FL 32601 * 🌐 Website: Depot Park * 📝 Features: A vibrant community park with playgrounds, splash pads, and a lakefront boardwalk. 3. Sweetwater Wetlands Park * 📍 Address: 325 SW Williston Rd, Gainesville, FL 32601 * 🌐 Website: Sweetwater Wetlands Park * 📝 Features: A constructed wetland with boardwalks, birdwatching opportunities, and native plant species. 4. Morningside Nature Center * 📍 Address: 3540 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32641 * 🌐 Website: Morningside Nature Center * 📝 Features: A living history farm with heritage livestock, period gardens, and interpretive programs. 🌿 State Parks & Nature Preserves 5. Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park * 📍 Address: 4732 Millhopper Road, Gainesville, FL 32653 * 🌐 Website: Florida State Parks * 📝 Features: A 120-foot deep sinkhole with a 132-step staircase leading to the bottom, showcasing unique geological formations. 6. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park * 📍 Address: 100 Savannah Blvd, Micanopy, FL 32667 * 🌐 Website: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park * 📝 Features: A vast wetland preserve with bison, wild horses, hiking trails, and birdwatching spots. 7. San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park * 📍 Address: 13201 San Felasco Parkway, Alachua, FL 32615 * 🌐 Website: San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park * 📝 Features: A forested park with trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. 8. Ichetucknee Springs State Park * 📍 Address: 12087 SW U.S. Highway 27, Fort White, FL 32038 * 🌐 Website: Ichetucknee Springs State Park * 📝 Features: A 6-mile river fed by nine springs, offering tubing, kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking through shaded hammocks. 9. O'Leno State Park * 📍 Address: 410 SE O'Leno Park Rd, High Springs, FL 32643 * 🌐 Website: O'Leno State Park * 📝 Features: Historic park with hiking trails, picnicking areas, and the scenic Santa Fe River. 10. Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park * 📍 Address: 18700 S County Rd 325, Cross Creek, FL 32640 * 🌐 Website: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park * 📝 Features: The former home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, with gardens and historic buildings. 11. Dudley Farm Historic State Park * 📍 Address: 18730 W Newberry Rd, Newberry, FL 32669 * 🌐 Website: Dudley Farm Historic State Park * 📝 Features: A preserved 19th-century farm with historic buildings, gardens, and interpretive programs. 💧 Springs & Water Features 12. Poe Springs Park * 📍 Address: 28800 NW 182nd Ave, High Springs, FL 32643 * 🌐 Website: Poe Springs Park * 📝 Features: A spring with a 45-foot deep vent, offering swimming and snorkeling opportunities. 13. Ginnie Springs * 📍 Address: 5000 NE 60th Ave, High Springs, FL 32643 * 🌐 Website: Ginnie Springs * 📝 Features: A popular spot for tubing, snorkeling, and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters. 14. Blue Springs Park * 📍 Address: 7450 NE 60th St, High Springs, FL 32643 * 🌐 Website: Blue Springs Park * 📝 Features: A spring known for its vibrant blue waters and opportunities for swimming and picnicking. 🌸 Botanical Gardens 15. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens * 📍 Address: 4700 SW 58th Dr, Gainesville, FL 32608 * 🌐 Website: Kanapaha Botanical Gardens * 📝 Features: 24 major collections, including the state's largest public bamboo garden and a butterfly garden. 16. Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens * 📍 Address: 4990 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL 32696 * 🌐 Website: Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens * 📝 Features: A 20-acre botanical garden set in a century-old limestone quarry, featuring waterfalls, koi ponds, and tropical plant displays. 🛶 Public Boat Ramps & River Launch Points 17. Lake Santa Fe Boat Ramp * 📍 Address: 2308 SE 30th St, Melrose, FL 32666 * 🌐 Website: Lake Santa Fe Boat Ramp * 📝 Features: A concrete boat ramp providing access to Lake Santa Fe for various watercraft. 18. Jill McGuire Santa Fe Lake Park * 📍 Address: 24500 NE SR 26, Melrose, FL 32666 * 🌐 Website: Jill McGuire Santa Fe Lake Park * 📝 Features: A park with a boat ramp, shelter, and play area, offering access to Santa Fe Lake. 21. Ellie Ray's Resort Boat Ramp * 📍 Address: Ellie Ray's Resort, High Springs, FL 32643 * 🌐 Website: Ellie Ray's Resort * 📝 Features: A private resort with a boat ramp providing access to the Santa Fe River. 22. Sandy Point Campground * 📍 Address: Sandy Point Campground, High Springs, FL 32643 * 🌐 Website: Sandy Point Campground * 📝 Features: A campground with a boat ramp offering access to the Santa Fe River. 🌲 Nature Preserves & Additional Parks 23. Barr Hammock Preserve * 📍 Address: Located near Gainesville, FL * 🌐 Website: Barr Hammock Preserve * 📝 Features: A preserve with hiking trails through pine flatwoods and cypress swamps. 24. Buck Bay Flatwoods Preserve * 📍 Address: Located near Gainesville, FL * 🌐 Website: Buck Bay Flatwoods Preserve * 📝 Features: A preserve with hiking trails through flatwoods and wetlands. 25. Four Creeks Preserve * 📍 Address: Located near Gainesville, FL * 🌐 Website: Four Creeks Preserve * 📝 Features: A preserve protecting the headwaters of four local creeks, with seasonal trails. 26. Lake Alto Preserve * 📍 Address: Located near Gainesville, FL * 🌐 Website: Lake Alto Preserve * 📝 Features: A preserve with trails through pine flatwoods and lake shore hardwood forest. 27. Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve * 📍 Address: Located near Gainesville, FL * 🌐 Website: Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve * 📝 Features: A reserve with trails through longleaf pine forests and wetlands. 28. Mill Creek Nature Preserve * 📍 Address: Located near Gainesville, FL * 🌐 Website: Mill Creek Nature Preserve * 📝 Features: A preserve with hiking trails through hardwood forests and wetlands. 29. Newnans Lake Conservation Area * 📍 Address: Located near Gainesville, FL * 🌐 Website: Newnans Lake Conservation Area * 📝 Features: A conservation area with trails and birdwatching opportunities. 🏞️ Other Notable Natural Attractions 30. The Bluffs at Paynes Prairie * 📍 Address: Located at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Micanopy, FL 32667 * 🌐 Website: Paynes Prairie Preserve * 📝 Features: Scenic lookout points offering panoramic views of the prairie, ideal for wildlife watching and photography. 31. Lookout Points at Paynes Prairie * 📍 Address: Located at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Micanopy, FL 32667 * 🌐 Website: Paynes Prairie Preserve * 📝 Features: Stunning views over the prairie from observation points, popular for birdwatching and hiking. 🛶 Kayaking, Canoeing, and Tubing Spots 32. Santa Fe River (Canoe and Kayak Launch) * 📍 Address: Various Launch Points (including near High Springs) * 🌐 Website: Santa Fe Canoe Outpost * 📝 Features: Enjoy paddling down the scenic Santa Fe River, a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing. 33. Suwannee River (Canoe and Kayak Launch) * 📍 Address: Various Launch Points (High Springs, Micanopy) * 🌐 Website: Suwannee River * 📝 Features: A popular river for long canoe trips with beautiful landscapes and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Gainesville, Florida, and its surrounding areas are a paradise for nature lovers, offering a rich variety of outdoor experiences from hiking and birdwatching to kayaking and tubing. Whether you prefer the tranquility of a botanical garden, the adventure of a hike through a state park, or the excitement of a spring-fed river, there's no shortage of beautiful places to explore. Each of these locations provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural wonders of North Central Florida. Feel free to visit any of these parks, preserves, and waterways and immerse yourself in the incredible nature surrounding Gainesville! While visiting Gainesville, be sure to stay in one of StayGainesville's comfortable homes and condos. We have a large variety of sizes, locations, prices and more! Stay local. Stay Comfortable. StayGainesville. 352-519-3994 info@staygainesville.com
