Visiting Gainesville, Florida for AVP Grass Nationals 2026? Make a Vacation of It.
If you're traveling to Gainesville, Florida for the 2026 AVP Grass Nationals, don't just come for the volleyball—make a WHOLE vacation out of it.
AVP Grass Nationals takes place October 23–25 at the High Springs Sports Complex, just outside Gainesville.
The three-day event brings players from across the country to North Central Florida for doubles, triples, and reverse coed grass volleyball. You can also expect with music, vendors, food, and plenty of off-the-court fun!
And when you're not competing? This part of Florida has a LOT to explore that you may not know about.
Explore High Springs, Florida
High Springs is a small town about 20 miles northwest of the center of Gainesville, known as the "Gateway to the Springs."
It's a completely different experience from a typical Florida tourist destination, with historic downtown streets, local restaurants, outdoor recreation, and some of the state's most beautiful freshwater springs.
For an active weekend, start with the water.
Ginnie Springs is a popular destination for swimming, tubing, paddling, snorkeling, and diving in crystal-clear spring water. The property has seven springs and offers rentals for tubes, kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes. You can expect fewer crowds in late October.
Poe Springs Park offers another opportunity to experience the Santa Fe River, with swimming, paddling, and a shaded natural setting that's perfect for a slower afternoon.
If hiking or biking is more your speed, check out River Rise Preserve State Park. The park connects with O'Leno State Park to create more than 35 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The preserve is also home to the fascinating point where the Santa Fe River reemerges after traveling underground.
And don't overlook Ichetucknee Springs State Park, a short drive from High Springs. The spring-fed Ichetucknee River is ideal for paddling, swimming, snorkeling, tubing, and wildlife viewing. There are also hiking trails if you'd rather stay on land.
Eat, Drink & Explore Downtown High Springs
Head into downtown High Springs for some local food and a change of pace.
Great Outdoors Restaurant is a longtime High Springs favorite, serving classic and modern American dishes in a relaxed setting with a patio and live music. It's an easy place to grab dinner after a day at the springs—or after a full day of grass volleyball!
For a more casual stop, check out High Springs Brewing Company, a family-owned brewery and gathering place in downtown High Springs. The taproom features a rotating selection of handcrafted drinks and food trucks, making it an easy post-adventure hangout. P.S. - we heard they will have some specials for AVP Grass Nationals players!
Right nearby, Prohibition Pizza offers New York-style pizza, wings, salads, and other casual fare. It's a particularly convenient option if you're exploring the brewery and downtown on the same evening.
Spend a Day in Gainesville, Florida
Of course, you can also head into Gainesville, Florida itself. The city is home to the University of Florida, a lively downtown area, restaurants and breweries, museums, parks, trails, and plenty of opportunities to get outside.
If you're extending your trip beyond tournament weekend, Gainesville is a great home base for exploring more of North Central Florida.
Come for the Volleyball. Stay for North Central Florida.
That's part of what makes AVP Grass Nationals special.
You can spend Friday competing in doubles, Saturday playing triples, and Sunday finishing the weekend with reverse coed—all while experiencing a part of Florida that's known for springs, rivers, trails, and small-town charm.
So bring your volleyball gear, your favorite adventure clothes, and book at least an extra day into the itinerary.
Come for the volleyball. Stay for the party. And make a weekend of Gainesville, Florida and High Springs.
We'll see you at the 2026 AVP Grass Nationals!
Be. sure to check out the hotel specials and suggestions provided by the Gainesville Sports Comission and Visit Gainesville.
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