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Cozy Getaway Near UF Campus, Downtown GNV + Historic Duckpond Area; Dog Friendly

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Room
Living area
Interior
Living area
Living area

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Garden

Explore the area

View in a map
Gainesville, FL
  • Place, Thomas Center
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Hippodrome State Theatre
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Depot Park
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Gainesville, FL (GNV-Gainesville Regional)
    ‪10 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen
Kitchenette
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

Cozy Getaway Near UF Campus, Downtown GNV + Historic Duckpond Area; Dog Friendly

Recharge your batteries at the Blue Bungalow. With a dedicated in-law suite, this cozy single-story home is a perfect base for graduations and family gatherings. Imagine beautiful sunny days exploring the peaceful neighborhood and evenings indulging in delicious home-cooked meals, chatting over a glass of wine, and playing board games.

Downtown – 4 min drive
University of Florida – 7 min drive
The Duckpond Area – 5 min walk

Create Lasting Memories In Gainesville With Us & Learn More Below!

☆☆ HIGHLIGHTS ☆☆

✹ Single-story remodeled mid-century home; suitable for multigenerational groups
✹ 4 comfortable bedrooms; 1 king, 3 queens
✹ 2 full bathrooms; essential toiletries provided
✹ In-law suite w/ in-room TV, coffee cart + dining table
✹ Full kitchen w/ modern appliances + breakfast bar w/ seating for 2
✹ Coffee station w/ complimentary coffee
✹ Modern dining table w/ seating for 6
✹ Open living area w/ ample seating + 55” smart TV
✹ High-speed Wi-Fi w/ speeds up to 532 Mbps + dedicated workspace
✹ Board games, books + host’s local guidebook
✹ In-unit full-size washer + dryer
✹ Unique decor including hand-painted mural of Lake Alice
✹ Dogs welcome w/ minimal fee
✹ Free driveway parking; up to 6 vehicles
✹ Exterior security cameras
✹ Central location w/ easy access to local attractions, short drive to restaurants + grocery

Eager to Read More?

Here Are A Few Kind Words From Our Previous Guests:

“We had a great stay at the Blue Bungalow. The house was immaculate and beds were comfy. Everything was as described, and Jennifer was super responsive. A great place to stay when visiting UF!” –Wendy

“Jennifer’s place was perfect for our group of 7 for graduation weekend. There was plenty of space for all of us. The house was quiet and clean and we were able to easily cook meals in the kitchen. The area is very safe and walkable. Jennifer was a great host and quickly responded to any questions we had. Highly recommend this place!” –Elena

“Our stay at the Blue Bungalow was flawless from beginning to end. Everything you could possibly need was in the house and easily accessible. The house was extremely clean and well thought out. We were there for my Gator 2023’s graduation and were so thrilled to be able to share this time with family in this beautiful home. Jen was wonderful to us, even surprising us with some cookies to help celebrate my daughter’s graduation. She is very prompt when answering any and all questions and offering any advice about things to do in the area. I just wish I would have found the Blue Bungalow sooner since I visited my daughter frequently over the past 4 years. Nevertheless, it was great to say goodbye to Gainesville in style.” –Bernadette

★★ BEDROOMS ★★
Comfortable, peaceful and cozy, each of the bedrooms offers a relaxing sanctuary after exploring the vibrant city of Gainesville. Parents or grandparents can enjoy sweet dreams in a private bedroom, with in-room coffee, a dining table, and a full bathroom. Every room boasts comfortable beds topped with all-new memory foam mattresses and fresh, premium linens, modern USB outlets, and remote-controlled ceiling fans.

✹ Primary bedroom: King-sized bed + touch table lamp + large closet + luggage rack
✹ Bedroom 2: Queen-sized bed, designated workspace + dresser + touch table lamp +closet
✹ Bedroom 3: Queen-sized bed + 2 touch table lamps + closet +luggage rack
✹ Bedroom 4: In-law suite w/ ensuite shower, table + 2 chairs, microwave, mini-fridge, Roku TV + coffee cart


★★ BATHROOMS ★★
Enjoy the calming ambiance of the two full bathrooms. Both have been fully remodeled to offer contemporary walk-in showers.

✹ Bathroom 1: Full bathroom w/ accessible walk-in shower + dual faucets
✹ Bathroom 2: Ensuite bathroom to bedroom 4 w/ fully-tiled walk-in shower + convenient bench

✔ Essential toiletries provided (including shampoo, conditioner + body wash)
✔ Hair dryer
✔ Iron
✔ Fresh towels
✔ Laundry room w/ full-size washer/dryer

★★ KITCHEN & DINING ★★
The spacious kitchen offers a modern space to whip up your family’s favorite meals. Ample counter space is combined with all the appliances, gadgets, and utensils you’ll need to cook up a storm. A few added bonuses are thrown in to make you feel at home, including a choice of coffee makers, a high-speed blender, and an air fryer. Enjoy mealtimes together at the contemporary dining table or sneak in a coffee at the breakfast bar.

✔ Well-stocked kitchen w/ stainless steel appliances (including gas stove and oven, fridge with filtered water and ice machine + dishwasher)
✔ Coffee bar w/ Keurig coffee machine, filter coffee maker, cafétière + complimentary tea/coffee
✔ Basic cookware + dinnerware
✔ Large dining table w/ seating for 6
✔ Kitchen island w/ seating for 2

★★ LIVING ROOM ★★
Each time you come home, you’ll be greeted by a one-of-a-kind hand-painted mural of Lake Alice. It’s a perfect backdrop for group photos! Head through to the living room for an evening of relaxation. A beer and the big game? An evening of family-friendly board games? Lose yourself in a good coffee table book? There are plenty of options to help you reset, ready for your next exciting adventure.

✔ High-speed Wi-Fi w/ speed up to 532 Mbps
✔ 55” Fire TV; streaming ready, own log-in needed
✔ Ample seating; plush couches + accent chair
✔ Board games, card games + coffee table books

★★ OUTDOOR SPACE ★★
Nestled amongst lush greenery, the Blue Bungalow offers you tranquility coupled with a central location. With a private backyard and spacious front lawn, there’s plenty of room for four-legged family members to stretch their legs, or for a real treat, take your pet to enjoy the enclosed dog run at Tom Petty Park, just a few blocks from the house!

✔ Large front lawn
✔ Quiet backyard (not fully-fenced in, please keep pets on a leash!)
✔ Screened porch
✔ Long driveway w/ parking for 6 vehicles

★★ ACTIVITIES/ATTRACTIONS ★★
Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville offers a wide range of activities. From hikes in the great outdoors to an amazing array of dining and shopping options, you’re never short of fun options.

✔ Downtown Gainesville: No more than a mile away from Blue Bungalow lies Downtown Gainesville, a vibrant dining and entertainment hub. Enjoy tasty local cuisine, shop until you drop, or experience one of the many cultural events.
✔ Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park: Spend an afternoon meandering through Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, where you can view its unique sinkhole, lush vegetation, and one of Gainesville's most iconic natural beauty spots.
✔ Harn Museum of Art: Home to an extensive collection of art from around the world, the Harn Museum of Art is well worth a visit the next time you visit the University of Florida campus.

All these activities and more are within your reach when you book with us!

★☆ Book Today & Let Us Take Care Of You In Gainesville! ☆★


NEARBY RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS:
The Afternoon (breakfast, pastries, and brunch)
Cypress & Grove Brewery, Public & General
Germain's Chicken (local favorite and the best Brussels sprouts on earth!)
Vine Sourdough Bakery (great coffee!)
East End Eatery (Brunch)
Superette Wine & Provisions

There is also a Publix grocery store, Wal-Mart, and several fast food options within a 4 minute drive.


OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:

For your comfort and protection, as well as that of future guests, this home is a 100% SMOKE-FREE environment. No vaping or smoking of any kind will be permitted on the premises.

Please remember that there are no parties, events, or gatherings permitted at the house and we do not allow unregistered guests. As such, we request your group limit themselves to no more than 6 vehicles on the property at any time. There is plenty of free parking space for your group on our newly paved driveway!

Prior approval is required for all pets. Our Pet Policy is described in full in our House Rules. Please be sure to check those out before booking if you plan on traveling with a furry friend!

Questions? Don't hesitate to reach out! We can't wait to host you and your group!

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About the area

Gainesville

Located in Gainesville, this holiday home is in the city centre. Matheson History Museum and Hippodrome State Theatre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Thomas Center and Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History and Florida Museum of Natural History are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with nearby swimming, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and cycling.
Map
Gainesville, FL

What's nearby

  • Thomas Center - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Matheson History Museum - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Hippodrome State Theatre - 5 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Depot Park - 7 min drive - 2.7 km
  • Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention - 7 min drive - 2.7 km

Getting around

  • Gainesville, FL (GNV-Gainesville Regional) - 9 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wawa - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Circle K - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Public & General - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Hook Fish & Chicken - ‬3 min drive

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 10 out of 11 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 11 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 11 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 11 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 11 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Uma R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We hosted friends here for a family wedding and they were delighted with their stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Silver B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice property very clean owner/manager very accommodating
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matt Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is turning into one of my go to spots when we’re in town for work. Awesome property, quiet neighborhood and always great communication
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Frances W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A perfect place to stay!

This cottage was everything I had read about & more! Spotless, comfortable beds & perfect location! Also we love the Duckpond area!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Blue Bungalow weekend stay

Duckpond location close to downtown Gainsville and the UF campus is really great! House was neat and clean and everything went smooth. Would come back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Rebecca C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Neat and clean

The home was neat, clean, and well-stocked.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 May, 2025
Thank you Rebecca! We're so glad you found the home neat, clean, and well-stocked—those are top priorities for us! As fellow hosts, we’re sure you understand how much care goes into creating a 5-star experience and how significantly ratings affect visibility and bookings. We always appreciate honest, real-time feedback and rely on guest communication during the stay to help us continuously improve. Since we didn’t hear from you during your stay, we're unsure where we may have fallen short of meeting your expectations, but we would've loved the opportunity to address any concerns and enhance your overall experience at the Blue Bungalow!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great for family

The property was very well kept. Loved that all the rooms had queen or king beds and no bunk beds. The amenities were great…nicely updated home. It would be nice to have an outdoor space to hang out. There isn’t a patio area with outdoor furniture.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brett R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Blue Bungalow

The Blue Bungalow is the best ever place on VRBO that we have ever reserved. The hosts were very nice and quick to respond to any questions and offered suggestions of places to visit in the area. They have also thought of every amenity that you would ever need, from kitchen items, bathroom items, blankets, etc. If you think you need something, it is probably there somewhere. It was immaculately clean and tidy. Everything about this place was just wonderful. Bonus being it is only a few blocks from family that we were visiting. This will be our #1 go-to place in Gainesville when we visit again. Amazing!!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar, 2024
Thank you so much Brett! It was a joy to host you and your family! You guys will always be welcome at the Blue Bungalow any time you find yourselves in Gainesville!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tym D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gainesville

We had to go to Gainesville and we had 5 adults and our dog. There was plenty of space for everyone and had a bedroom we didn't use. It's an older home that they did a great job remodeling the kitchen and bathrooms to make it a pleasure to stay at. The home is very clean and they have all the little extras you need.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic!

This is an impeccably appointed home in a quiet neighborhood, with great space for family. The owner communication is excellent. The house is bright and clean and comfortable. The tree lined streets are quiet and easy to walk. From the ease of access to the home, to the extra touches (like cooking spices and tea available onsite), to the comfortable furnishings and fully equipped kitchen, this home was a perfect stay for our family while visiting our Gator. Easy ride to campus, and to nearby stores, plenty of space for all of us, superbly clean & ideally set up for guests. We loved Blue Bungalow!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debra S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home

The home is beautiful, clean and included everything we needed. We would definitely stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
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