Gainesville’s Premier AirBNB Mansion Rental for Luxury Stays
Did you know that you can rent a mansion in Gainesville, FL? Yes, you can!
The Laurel Oak Mansion: Gainesville’s Premier Mansion Rental for Luxury Stays, Gatherings, and Getaways
Formerly The Laurel Oak Inn, tucked away in the heart of downtown Gainesville, The Laurel Oak Mansion offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience Southern elegance, comfort, and grandeur in a way few vacation rentals can. Once a celebrated historic inn, this stunning property has been transformed into a private whole-house rental ideal for family reunions, friend getaways, corporate retreats, weddings, and extended group stays.
Spanning over 5,200 square feet, with seven king suites, multiple living spaces, and a serene backyard, The Laurel Oak Mansion redefines what it means to travel in comfort and style.
Why Rent a Mansion Instead of a Standard Vacation Home?
When it comes to traveling with a group—whether it’s a wedding party, extended family, or team off-site—the difference between a large home and a true mansion is in the details.
A standard vacation rental may offer enough bedrooms, but often sacrifices communal space, privacy, or ambiance. The Laurel Oak Mansion delivers on all fronts: luxury bedrooms, sprawling shared spaces, private nooks for downtime, and stunning architectural character throughout. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a place to gather, to celebrate, and to make memories.
Elegant Bedrooms Designed for Rest and Rejuvenation
Each of the mansion’s seven suites is thoughtfully curated to reflect a refined sense of comfort and luxury. Guests will enjoy:
- King-size beds with plush bedding
- Private en-suite bathrooms for every room
- Fireplaces in most bedrooms, offering a cozy and romantic ambiance
- High ceilings, large windows, and tasteful décor that honor the home’s historic charm
No one gets the "small room" here. Every guest is treated to a luxurious, hotel-quality experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Gainesville or celebrating a milestone occasion.
Spacious Common Areas for Connection and Celebration
One of the defining features of The Laurel Oak Mansion is its abundance of gathering spaces, which sets it apart from other rentals in the area.
The Grand Living Room
Flooded with natural light and elegantly furnished, the main living room offers ample seating for large groups. Whether you're enjoying morning coffee, hosting a group discussion, or relaxing with a glass of wine by the fire, this space provides a comfortable and stylish backdrop for connection.
Formal Dining Room
Set with a large dining table and elegant fixtures, the dining room is perfect for celebratory dinners, holiday meals, or catered events. Whether you're hiring a chef or cooking as a group, this is the space where stories are shared and memories are made.
Gourmet Kitchen
The spacious chef’s kitchen is a dream for culinary enthusiasts. Outfitted with high-end appliances, generous counter space, and plenty of room to gather around, it’s the heart of the home. Guests often use this space for:
- Cooking classes or culinary experiences
- Group breakfasts before a big day out
- Hosting intimate meals or chef’s table experiences
Whether you bring your own chef or cook together, the kitchen sets the scene for unforgettable meals.
Porches, Gardens & Outdoor Entertaining
Step outside and experience a tranquil escape in the lush backyard and outdoor areas. With well-manicured gardens, seating areas, and Southern-style porches, guests can take full advantage of Gainesville’s warm weather and natural beauty.
- Morning coffee on the porch surrounded by birdsong
- Afternoon garden parties or tea under the oaks
- Evening cocktails and conversation in the backyard
The outdoor space is ideal for private events, from bridal showers and birthday celebrations to yoga classes and cocktail hours. It's private, peaceful, and elegant—providing your group with room to breathe and bond.
Perfect for Weddings, Reunions, Retreats, and More
The Laurel Oak Mansion was built for groups looking to do more than just stay—it’s for those looking to connect, celebrate, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience.
Weddings & Bridal Parties
With space to sleep your entire wedding party, stunning photo backdrops, and elegant pre- and post-wedding gathering areas, this home is perfect for the bride, groom, and their closest friends and family. Host a rehearsal dinner, get ready together in luxury, or keep the celebration going all weekend long.
Family Reunions
With equal-sized suites (no arguing over rooms!), shared meals around the table, and cozy nooks for catching up, multi-generational families love The Laurel Oak Mansion for making time together feel easy and comfortable.
Corporate Retreats
Trade the stale hotel conference room for a luxury estate where ideas flow and relationships grow. From strategy sessions in the dining room to social time on the porch, the home inspires creativity and collaboration.
Wellness & Creative Retreats
Writers, artists, yoga instructors, and life coaches have found the Laurel Oak Mansion to be a peaceful retreat destination that offers quiet inspiration, ample privacy, and soulful ambiance.
An Unbeatable Location in Downtown Gainesville
While the home feels like a world away, it’s just steps from Gainesville’s vibrant downtown. Guests will enjoy:
- Walkable access to restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and local boutiques
- A short drive to the University of Florida, Shands Hospital, and Depot Park
- Easy access to hiking, springs, and natural attractions nearby
Whether your group wants to explore the town, attend a Gator game, or stay tucked into the comforts of the mansion, everything is conveniently close by.
Why Guests Love The Laurel Oak Mansion
Guests often say that the Laurel Oak Mansion feels like staying in a boutique hotel—but with the warmth and privacy of home. Here’s why it earns rave reviews:
- Privacy: The entire mansion is yours. No shared spaces. No other guests.
- Luxury: From fireplaces in every room to plush furnishings and elegant design, every corner feels elevated.
- Space: Spread out and enjoy time together without feeling crowded.
- Ambiance: Historic charm, romantic details, and timeless elegance are felt throughout.
- Flexibility: Perfect for short stays or extended visits, events or quiet getaways.
Book Your Stay Today
Availability for a property like The Laurel Oak Mansion is limited. Gainesville has very few homes of this size and caliber, and even fewer located right in the heart of downtown. Whether you're planning a wedding weekend, family trip, or upscale retreat, this mansion offers an unforgettable experience for your group.
Visit our listing
to view photos, check availability, and secure your stay.
The Laurel Oak Mansion is more than a rental—it’s a destination. Come experience the elegance, the warmth, and the unmatched charm of this historic Gainesville gem.
Visiting your student at the University of Florida? Discover why UF parents choose StayGainesville for spacious rentals, prime locations, and stress-free stays.
Your Gainesville Stay Made Easy: Save 15% on StayGainesville Rentals Until August 29 Parents, we know why you’re here. Maybe you’re helping your student move into their dorm at the University of Florida. Maybe it’s Family Weekend, a big Gators game, or a spontaneous visit to bring your freshman their favorite home-cooked meal. Whatever the reason, your trip to Gainesville should be about making memories — not stressing about where to stay. That’s why StayGainesville is offering 15% off any direct booking made by August 29. Just call us at 352-519-3994 or book on our website at StayGainesville.com using code WELCOME15. Minimum stay: two nights. Skip the crowded hotels, ditch the noisy hallways, and enjoy the comfort of a whole home or condo, just minutes from UF. Why Parents Love Staying with StayGainesville When you’re in town to see your student, location matters. But so do comfort, space, and the ability to truly unwind after a busy day on campus. Here’s why parents book with us year after year: 1. Space for the Whole Family Forget squeezing into one hotel room. Our properties range from cozy one-bedroom condos to spacious multi-bedroom homes — perfect if grandparents or siblings are joining you. Everyone gets their own space to sleep, relax, and recharge. 2. Full Kitchens for Easy Meals Sometimes, you just want to make your student a home-cooked breakfast or enjoy a quiet dinner without eating out. All StayGainesville rentals have fully equipped kitchens — from pots and pans to coffee makers — so you can whip up meals just like at home. 3. Privacy and Peace Hotels can be noisy, especially during move-in weekends, game days, or big UF events. Our rentals give you a private space to unwind. Whether you want to sip coffee on a porch, relax in a backyard, or curl up with a book, you’ll have the quiet you need. 4. Prime Locations Near UF Many of our properties are within walking or quick driving distance to campus, downtown Gainesville, and major UF sports venues. Less time in traffic means more time with your student. 5. Clean, Comfortable, and Professionally Managed We’ve been hosting guests in Gainesville since 2010, and our team takes pride in maintaining spotless, well-appointed homes. Each property is thoughtfully furnished and ready for your arrival — no surprises, just comfort. Book Direct & Save: Why It Matters When you book through big travel websites like Airbnb or VRBO, you’ll pay extra service fees — often hundreds of dollars for a multi-night stay. By booking directly with StayGainesville: You pay less — no middleman booking fees. You get perks — like our 15% WELCOME15 discount (available only when booking direct). You have direct access to us — our local team can answer questions about your rental, Gainesville, and UF events. You keep your money local — supporting a Gainesville-based business that knows and loves the community. What to Do While You’re in Gainesville While you’re here for your student, you might as well enjoy the city! Gainesville is full of activities that parents love — whether you have a few hours or a few days to explore. Stroll the UF Campus Take a walk past Century Tower, the Plaza of the Americas, and Lake Alice. If you’re lucky, you might spot an alligator or catch the bats emerging from the bat houses at sunset. Catch a Gator Game Football at The Swamp is an experience like no other, but UF sports go far beyond football. Depending on the season, you can watch basketball, gymnastics, baseball, or softball. Explore Gainesville’s Food Scene Some local parent favorites include: The Top – Eclectic menu with something for everyone. Satchel’s Pizza – A Gainesville institution. Dragonfly Sushi – Fresh, creative sushi in a stylish setting. Discover Nature Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park – See wild horses, bison, and sweeping views. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens – Beautiful gardens and walking trails. Sweetwater Wetlands Park – Birdwatching and boardwalk paths. Perfect for Every Type of Visit StayGainesville isn’t just for move-in weekend. Parents love booking with us for: Family Weekend in the fall UF Commencement ceremonies Sports weekends — football, basketball, and more Surprise visits to check in or celebrate a milestone Special Gainesville events like art festivals and spring game day With our variety of property sizes and locations, you’ll always have a “home base” in Gainesville. The WELCOME15 Offer: How to Use It Offer: 15% off your stay when you book direct by August 29, 2025. Code: WELCOME15 Minimum Stay: 2 nights Booking Methods: Call us at 352-519-3994 Book online at StayGainesville.com and enter the code at checkout. Why act now? UF-related weekends book fast. Lock in your dates, enjoy the savings, and relax knowing your Gainesville stay is set. Hear from Other Parents "StayGainesville was the perfect choice for our daughter’s move-in weekend. We had space to spread out, made breakfast together each morning, and it was only 5 minutes from campus." – Karen M., Gator Parent "We’ve stayed with them for Family Weekend, football games, and graduation. Every property has been spotless and so comfortable. Booking direct saved us a ton on fees." – Mike L., Gainesville Visitor Why StayGainesville Is Different We’re more than just a place to sleep. We’re locals who care about making your visit stress-free and memorable. We know where to find the best coffee, how to avoid game day traffic, and which restaurants will impress your student. When you stay with us, you’re not just renting a home — you’re getting a local partner for your trip. Book direct, save money, and make the most of your Gainesville visit. Your student will thank you for being nearby, and you’ll thank yourself for choosing a comfortable, convenient home-away-from-home. 📅 Call us at 352-519-3994 or visit StayGainesville.com to book your stay today. Use code WELCOME15 before August 29 for 15% off (2-night minimum stay).
