Gainesville isn't one of the places people normally visit in Florida. Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Orlando and Naples usually figure high on the list, but unless you are a college football fame, Gainesville gets passed by.
It is true that a large part of Gainesville's existence is the University of Florida. It is our largest employer, and owns more of the city land than anyone else (including the city, I believe). It has been here for more than 100 years, and gains fame on and off for football. The fact that our county tends to vote democratic, surrounded by a sea of republican counties, is also due to the student population , I believe.
However, there is more to this city of 100,000 than just the college life. We have our own set of springs to swim in at nearby High Springs, we have wonderful restaurants, some beautiful parks and a great little downtown theater. There are art shows and a medieval festival, parades and other events.