The city of Waldo, Florida lies in the northern part of the state, just southwest of Jacksonville. The town grew from its roots as a plantation village to a stop along the railroad. When the railroad moved its primary operations out of town, businesses closed down and population fell, but the town remains today, nestled among the three primary Florida Interstate highways. Visitors to the area can find hotels at a variety of prices and with different attractions.
Waldo boasts a Sleep Inn & Suites just north of town on Main Street/Highway 301. Only 14 miles from Gainesville Regional Airport, the Inn sits between the Waldo Motorsports Racetrack and the Waldo Flea Market. The hotel offers patrons free wireless Internet, continental breakfast, USA Today, HBO and local calls. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, workout room and business services such as fax and photocopying. Pets are allowed. A weekend rate for two adults runs from $89 per night, as of January 2011.
The larger city of Gainesville, Florida lies about 15 miles southwest of Waldo, where more accommodations are available. The Knights Inn, on 13th Street, sits just over a mile from the University of Florida. The Knights Inn offers high speed Internet, free continental breakfast, an outdoor pool and a playground and picnic area. The hotel is conveniently located with shopping, 24-hour restaurants, museums, hiking trails and several medical centers within a five-mile radius. Pets are allowed. A weekend night for two adults costs only $36 to $48, as of January 2011.
Guests who prefer to stay in well-known chain hotels can find a Holiday Inn in the University Center in Gainesville, about 15 miles from Waldo. Located on University Avenue, the Holiday Inn features available in-room video games, high speed wireless Internet and pay-per-view movies. Business travelers can use extensive business services such as copying, fax, printing and PC availability. The exercise equipment is limited, so the inn offers guests complimentary passes to a local, full-sized gym. No pets are allowed. Weekend rates for two adults start at $144, as of January 2011.
Guests looking for accommodations in the other direction might try the Days Inn in Starke, about 12 miles north of Waldo. Located on Temple Avenue, the Days Inn serves complimentary breakfast. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a lounge, wireless Internet and coin-operated laundry facilities. Pets are allowed. Guests may play tennis or golf nearby or visit several restaurants within walking distance. A room for two adults on a Saturday night costs between $49 and $61, as of January 2011.
