The Perfect Gainesville AirBNB Home for Large Groups and Events

StayGainesville has the perfect home for your group stay or event

The Laurel Oak Mansion: Gainesville’s Grand Retreat for Group Stays, Events, and Elegant Escapes

If you’re looking for a stunning, spacious, and sophisticated property to host your next group gathering, wedding weekend, retreat, or special event in Gainesville, Florida—look no further than The Laurel Oak Mansion. Formerly known as The Laurel Oak Inn, this historic property has been lovingly reimagined as a whole-house rental that offers guests privacy, elegance, and over 5,800 square feet of Southern charm.

Located in the heart of downtown Gainesville, The Laurel Oak Mansion is not just a place to stay—it’s an experience. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a bridal party weekend, a corporate retreat, or simply want to gather friends for a memorable stay, this beautiful estate offers everything you need and more.

Why Choose The Laurel Oak Mansion for Your Group Stay?
1. Space to Spread Out—Comfortably and in Style
With seven large bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms, the Laurel Oak Mansion easily accommodates up to 14 guests. Each bedroom is designed with both comfort and luxury in mind: king-sized beds, private en-suite bathrooms, and fireplaces in every room ensure that no guest feels like they drew the short straw.

Beyond the bedrooms, the home boasts expansive common areas perfect for socializing, dining, and relaxing. The grand living room, formal dining room, and wraparound porches create a warm and inviting space where guests can come together—or find a quiet corner to themselves.

2. A Historic Setting with Modern Comforts
Originally built in the early 1900s, The Laurel Oak Mansion has retained its historic architecture and craftsmanship, from crown moldings and heart-pine floors to original fireplaces and leaded glass windows. But don’t let the historic charm fool you—this home has been updated with modern amenities that make entertaining and staying easy.

The fully-equipped gourmet kitchen features premium appliances, a large island, and ample space for group cooking or private chef experiences. The high-speed Wi-Fi, central air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs throughout the home ensure guests enjoy both elegance and efficiency during their stay.

Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re booking a weekend event or planning a longer corporate or wellness retreat, The Laurel Oak Mansion offers the space, amenities, and ambiance to suit a wide range of occasions.

Family Gatherings & Reunions
Reconnecting with loved ones is easy when you have space to gather, cook, dine, and relax together. The backyard and porches make great settings for group meals, outdoor games, or a casual BBQ under the stars. Each family member has their own private suite to retreat to at the end of the day.

Weddings & Bridal Weekends
The Laurel Oak Mansion serves as a dream location for bridal parties looking to stay together for the big weekend. With ample space for getting ready, elegant backdrops for photos, and room to host a rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunch, this estate is both practical and photogenic. The beautiful manicured backyard and historic porches provide picturesque moments around every corner.

Corporate Retreats
Looking for an inspiring space for your next business getaway or team-building retreat? The mansion’s multiple gathering spaces, private bedrooms, and serene setting encourage both productivity and relaxation. Host brainstorming sessions in the dining room, breakout groups on the porches, and evening cocktails in the backyard.

Wellness & Creative Retreats
Whether you're planning a yoga retreat, writer’s workshop, or an artist residency, The Laurel Oak Mansion is a peaceful and luxurious place to center, create, and recharge. The tranquil garden, inviting porches, and cozy interior spaces create the perfect setting for intentional rest and inspiration.

Location, Location, Location
The Laurel Oak Mansion is situated in the historic district of downtown Gainesville, meaning guests have easy access to:

  • Restaurants & cafés (many within walking distance)
  • Boutique shops and local markets
  • The University of Florida and UF Health/Shands Hospital
  • The Hippodrome Theatre and Gainesville’s arts district
  • Public parks and nature trails

Guests can enjoy the peace and privacy of a historic home, while being just minutes from Gainesville’s most vibrant experiences. Whether you’re here for work or play, the location truly can’t be beat.

Standout Amenities
Here’s what sets The Laurel Oak Mansion apart from other large rentals in the area:

  • 7 spacious bedrooms – all with king beds, fireplaces, and private bathrooms
  • 7.5 bathrooms – no sharing or waiting in line!
  • Multiple entertaining spaces – formal living room, large dining room, gourmet kitchen, outdoor seating
  • 5800 square feet of beautifully maintained interiors
  • High ceilings, historic architectural details, and elegant décor
  • Private backyard with garden space – perfect for gatherings and events
  • Expansive porches for morning coffee or evening cocktails
  • On-site parking and plenty of walkable destinations nearby

Who Typically Books The Laurel Oak Mansion?
We’ve hosted a wide variety of groups, including:

  • Wedding parties needing a home base close to their venue
  • University of Florida alumni groups returning for Gator weekends
  • Families traveling in for medical procedures at Shands who want space and comfort
  • Traveling professionals or speakers attending Gainesville conferences
  • Out-of-town business teams needing long-term executive housing
  • Friends celebrating milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or just wanting a luxury weekend away

A Stay Worth Remembering
What makes The Laurel Oak Mansion truly special isn’t just its size or beauty—it’s the atmosphere. There’s something timeless and serene about staying in a historic home, where every room tells a story and every corner invites you to slow down and savor your time.

It’s the kind of place where memories are made, laughter echoes through the hallways, and guests leave feeling more connected—not just to each other, but to a sense of history, hospitality, and Southern charm.

Ready to Book?
Whether you're planning a one-night celebration or a week-long retreat, The Laurel Oak Mansion is ready to welcome you. Availability for large homes in Gainesville is limited—especially ones with this level of luxury, privacy, and downtown access—so we encourage you to book early.

Visit our link to check availability, view more photos, and secure your dates. Have questions about hosting an event or retreat? We’d love to chat and help you bring your vision to life.

The Laurel Oak Mansion isn’t just a place to stay—it’s where unforgettable gatherings begin.
UF Parents choose StayGainesville for housing when visiting their kids
By Susannah Peddie August 14, 2025
Visiting your student at the University of Florida? Discover why UF parents choose StayGainesville for spacious rentals, prime locations, and stress-free stays.
uf students returning to school
By Susannah Peddie August 14, 2025
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).
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