This post is sponsored by the Cade Museum, all opinions are our own.
If you’re based in Northeast Florida, the Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention in downtown Gainesville is an ideal destination for a family day trip. Located just about 90 minutes southwest of Jacksonville, this 26,000 sq ft museum is all about hands‑on learning, STEAM play, and imaginative exploration, perfect for curious kids and parents alike.
Why Kids (and Adults!) Love It
What sets the Cade apart is its focus on interactive exhibits, not just display cases. From its Fab Lab complete with 3D printers and laser cutters to the “Sweat Solution” exhibit that tells the story of Gatorade’s invention, the museum invites all ages to roll up their sleeves and tinker.
Exhibits & Amenities That Shine
- Creativity Lab & Fab Lab: Try coding, create prototypes, and even 3D print your own designs.
- Brain‑teasers & puzzle exhibits: The second‑floor gallery offer logic challenges for older kids and teens.
- Little Sparks program (ages 0–5): Interactive music, stories, and crafts designed just for toddlers, included with admission.
- SparkSeekers & Maker Workshops: Regular Saturday sessions for ages 7–11, taught by trained educators.
- Harmony Garden: A whimsical outdoor musical instrument park adjacent to Depot Park, perfect for free‑play and sunshine.
Amenities & Accessibility
Open Thursday–Sunday from 10am to 4pm, the Cade Museum offers welcoming vibes and thoughtful amenities. Admission is budget‑friendly: adults $15, youth $10, kids under 5 are free—SNAP, military, and low‑income families can enjoy special discounts. The museum is also fully ADA accessible.
Day Trip Fun from Jacksonville
A visit to the Cade Museum is the perfect day trip from Jacksonville. A short, scenic drive through North Central Florida brings you to Gainesville’s charming Depot Park area. Enjoy lunch at nearby eateries, then let curious minds (and bodies) playground at Depot Park. Be sure to pack a bathing suit during the summer so you can take advantage of the splash pad. You get STEAM education, outdoor recreation, and tasty food—all wrapped into one memorable day.
Make the Most of Your Visit
The Cade Museum is a one‑stop destination for families who want to combine learning, creativity, and fun. With interactive exhibits suitable for toddlers to teens, plus night‑out dining and outdoor play just steps away, it’s a brilliant day trip from Jacksonville that leaves everyone inspired. Pack your curiosity, and a sense of adventure!
The Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention is located at 811 S Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601.
This post was sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County, FL.
Shannon is a former Special Education teacher, turned stay at home mom that doesn’t spend a lot of time staying at home. Mom to Cole & Kiley, she loves cheering on the Gators, early morning visits to the beach and traveling with her family. She blogs about her family travel adventures at The Beckham Project and hosts the podcast, Jacksonville Momcast, where she chats with Jacksonville moms about motherhood and more in the 904.
