Sweetwater Branch Inn
625 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601
(352) 373-6760

Located in Gainesville’s historic district, the Sweetwater Branch Inn Bed & Breakfast is an eclectic blend of Victorian charm and Southern hospitality. Devoted to guests who are seeking the exceptional, the Sweetwater Branch Inn is well known for its comfort, beauty, and hospitality.

Sweetwater is a Victorian complex of two carefully restored Victorian-era mansions (theMcKenzie House and the Cushman-Colson House), charming guest cottages, a modern reception hall and beautifully sculptured gardens. At every turn, one can see a true testament to the finest in preserved Victorian Florida. Historic conservation is an important aspect of the goals of Sweetwater Inn’s owners. In addition, sharing the beauty and comfort that are a hallmark of Sweetwater’s reputation is a high priority.

The historic McKenzie House, circa 1895, is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. This magnificent three-story Queen Anne style Victorian home is known as one of the most elaborate Victorian buildings in Gainesville’s history. It has intricate Eastlake details and a fanciful restored massing. Of special note are the three-story octagonal turrets on the west face, and the wrap-around veranda which culminate in an octagonal gazebo. Perry Colson purchased the home in 1903 and sold it to William Turner Pound, the first husband of Mary Phifer. In the 1920's Mary Phifer married Reid Hill McKenzie. She lived in the McKenzie house until she was 83 years old. This is the location of five beautifully appointed Sweetwater Inn guest rooms.

The Cushman-Colson house, a Victorian, circa 1885, was one of the original Gainesville homes that lined old Alachua Avenue which is now University Avenue. The house is named after the Cushman family who lived in the house until 1905 and the family of Dr. James Colson, who lived there for 20 years. It has since been the home of several influential Gainesville families and reflects the tastes of the affluent at the turn of the century. The Cushman-Colson House hosts seven beautiful and unique Sweetwater Inn guest rooms.

While the homes have a history of their own, the Holbrook family, the current owners and Innkeepers, have a history with them as well. Neglected over the years, these beautiful homes had fallen into a state of disrepair until, in 1978, Giovanna and Juan Holbrook, purchased the McKenzie home and began restoring it to its original beauty and charm. Giovanna Holbrook and her daughter Cornelia later purchased and restored the Cushman home in 1992. The process of taking these buildings from their dilapidated condition to the beautiful and historic works of art they are today was one of love and patience, not to mention a lot of sweat and hard work. This hard work and dedication has resulted in two City Beautification Awards from the City of Gainesville. Sweetwater Inn is now a source of pride for its owners as well as the community.

The Perfect Room

Sweetwater Branch Inn features 20 beautifully restored spacious guest suites and cottages just blocks from the University of Florida and hip Downtown Gainesville. You are sure to find the perfect room to suit you! Each room reservation includes a wine & cheese hour each evening and our delicious homemade full breakfast every morning! Come find your next relaxing home-away-from-home!


Breakfast

In the morning, you’ll awaken to the rich aroma of Sweetwater’s own blend of Sweetwater Organic coffee and a newspaper. Downstairs, a delicious full gourmet breakfast awaits you. The menu always includes a wide variety of choices, from the Sweetwater’s famous french toast casserole and sweet crepes to savory choices such as cheesy vegetable frittatas, home fries, and meats such as sausages, canadian bacon, ham, and corned beef hash. Breakfast always includes fresh fruit and juice. Additional breakfast tickets can be purchased for your visitors for just $15.00 each.

Wine & Cheese Hour

All guests are invited to attend our wine and cheese hour, served downstairs in the Cushman Colson House, every evening from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Guests are encouraged to enjoy two complimentary glasses of wine, cheese, and other treats as the sound of soft music is played throughout the common areas of the house.


Check-In and Check-Out

Check in is 3:00 p.m. and check out is 11:00 a.m. There is a $35.00 charge for late check-outs.
The Sweetwater Branch Inn accepts checks, cash, American Express®, MasterCard®, Visa®, and Discover® cards. Prices do not include sales tax or county lodging tax. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Office hours for check-ins are as follows:
Monday-Saturday: 3 pm – 9 pm
Sunday: 3 pm – 7 pm

Unfortunately they do not guarantee any early check-ins, but if you call ahead the office will be happy to lock away your belongings if you wish to drop them off early.
If you anticipate that you will be arriving after the office closes, please let them know so that they can arrange a late check-in for you. If you are running late the day of, please give them a call and they will instruct you on what to do. Or, if you know in advance that you will be arriving late, they are happy to e-mail you detailed instructions as well as a property map up to a week in advance!