You’re moving to North Central Florida or maybe just stuck in town for a few weeks of hospital visits at UF Health Shands. You need a kitchen. You don't want to sign a lease. Naturally, Extended Stay America Gainesville FL pops up first in your search. But if you’re expecting a luxury resort experience, you’re looking at the wrong map. Honestly, this place is about utility, not infinity pools.
Located at 3600 SW 42nd St, right off I-75, the Extended Stay America Select Suites - Gainesville - I-75 is a specific kind of beast. It’s the "efficiency apartment" of the hotel world. Some people love the freedom of cooking their own pasta at 10 PM. Others are caught off guard by the "Select Suites" model, which is a bit more stripped-down than the standard ESA brand you might know. Let’s get into what actually happens when you check in here.
The Reality of Extended Stay America Gainesville FL
Most folks get confused about the "Select Suites" vs. "Suites" branding. Basically, the Select Suites version in Gainesville is the budget-friendly sibling. You get a room with a full-size fridge, a microwave, and a two-burner stovetop. That’s the big draw. If you’re trying to avoid the "Gator Nation" price hikes at local restaurants, having a stove is a lifesaver.
But here is the catch. Unlike a traditional hotel, they don't give you a "cooking pack" for free. You usually have to buy or bring your own pots, pans, and silverware. It’s a bit of a shock if you show up expecting a fully stocked kitchen.
🔗 Read more: Pic of Spain Flag: Why You Probably Have the Wrong One and What the Symbols Actually Mean
Why the Location Matters (It's Not Just the Highway)
The hotel sits about 4 miles from the University of Florida. If you've ever tried to find a place to stay during a home game weekend, you know Gainesville becomes a madhouse.
- Butler Plaza: You’re within walking distance (or a very short drive) to some of the best shopping in town.
- UF Health Shands Hospital: It’s roughly a 4-mile trek. Many guests here are families of patients or traveling nurses.
- Celebration Pointe: This is the newer, "fancy" part of town with a Regal cinema and Bass Pro Shops. It’s practically in your backyard.
What to Expect Inside the Room
The rooms are about 300 square feet. Not huge, but bigger than a standard cramped motel room because of the layout. You’ll find a workspace, which is actually decent. The Wi-Fi is free, but let’s be real—if you’re trying to stream 4K video or run a massive Zoom presentation, it might struggle during peak hours.
The Housekeeping Mystery
This is where people get grumpy. At Extended Stay America Gainesville FL, they don't clean your room every day. It’s usually bi-weekly. If you want fresh towels daily, you’re going to be walking down to the front desk yourself or paying an extra fee. It’s a "self-sufficient" model. It keeps the nightly rates low—often starting around $52 to $60 depending on the season—but it means you’re responsible for taking out your own trash.
💡 You might also like: Seeing Universal Studios Orlando from Above: What the Maps Don't Tell You
Surprising Details and Common Gripes
I’ve seen plenty of reviews and talked to travelers who’ve cycled through this location. The "grab-and-go" breakfast is often just muffins and coffee. Don't expect a waffle station.
- Pet Policy: They are pet-friendly. It’s usually a $25 per day fee, capped at $150. If you’re moving with a dog, this is often cheaper than a kennel.
- Odors: Some guests have noted that since people cook in their rooms, the hallways can smell like... well, whatever the person in 204 is making for dinner.
- Security: The front desk has limited hours (usually 9 AM to 10 PM). If you arrive at midnight, you need to use the after-hours phone.
Is It Actually the Best Value?
Gainesville has plenty of competition. You’ve got the WoodSpring Suites nearby and several Marriott-owned extended stay brands like Staybridge or TownePlace Suites.
The Staybridge Suites usually costs double. For that extra money, you get a pool and a real breakfast. If you are on a strict budget or a corporate relocation package that’s a bit thin, the Extended Stay America Select Suites is the "no-frills" winner. It’s functional. It’s a roof over your head with a way to fry an egg.
📖 Related: How Long Ago Did the Titanic Sink? The Real Timeline of History's Most Famous Shipwreck
Practical Next Steps for Your Stay
If you’ve decided to book a room at Extended Stay America Gainesville FL, do these three things to avoid a headache:
- Bring Your Own Kit: Pack a small frying pan, a plate, and a set of silverware. Buying the "kitchen pack" at the front desk is an expense you don't need.
- Request a Top Floor: The walls aren't soundproof. Being on the third floor saves you from hearing the "midnight marathon" of the person living above you.
- Check the Calendar: If there is a Gator football game or a graduation at UF, the rates will spike, and the traffic on SW 42nd St will be a nightmare. Plan your arrival for a Tuesday or Wednesday if possible.
Verify your check-in time before you arrive, especially since the front desk doesn't stay open 24/7. Grab your groceries at the nearby Publix in Butler Plaza before you settle in, and you'll be set for a much smoother stay.