In the heart of Downtown Gainesville, where vibrant city life meets Florida’s natural charm, Depot Village stands as a beacon of community, creativity, and connection. What was once a peaceful Zen Meditation Center has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel and event space that invites guests to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect.
A Unique Gainesville Destination
Depot Village is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience. Conveniently located near some of Gainesville’s top attractions, including the University of Florida, Gator Games, Depot Park, the Hawthorne Trail, and local springs, it offers guests easy access to the city’s best events, music festivals, and nightlife. Just a few blocks from Gainesville’s downtown action, Depot Village provides the comforts of home with fully renovated, private rooms equipped with modern amenities.
But Depot Village isn’t just a space for overnight stays. It’s a thriving community hub that hosts public events like concerts and movie nights while also providing a charming venue for private gatherings. From intimate courtyard weddings and cozy baby showers to lively holiday parties, corporate events, and even music festivals, Depot Village is dedicated to bringing celebrations to life. With offerings like beer, wine, and rotating food truck vendors, every event feels vibrant and welcoming.
The Story Behind Depot Village
Depot Village is the brainchild of father-and-son duo Eli and Austin Collins, who have seamlessly blended their entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for community building. Eli Collins, the driving force behind the family’s business ventures, began investing in real estate at a young age. His early investments laid the foundation for a lifetime of property development and revitalization, shaping his vision for transforming spaces into thriving community centers.
Austin Collins grew up working alongside his father, learning the ins and outs of business and property management. By the time Austin turned 20, he was ready to carve out his own path. Recognizing the potential to maximize their family’s business ventures, Austin suggested they divide and conquer—splitting responsibilities to focus on growing both of their enterprises. This strategic decision led Austin to take the helm at Boone Welding & Powder Coating, a well-established welding shop in Gainesville known for its exceptional craftsmanship and customer service, while Eli dedicated his efforts to nurturing and expanding Depot Village.
Their shared commitment to quality and customer service has been the cornerstone of their success. Whether it’s ensuring the structural integrity of metalwork at Boone Welding or curating unforgettable experiences at Depot Village, the Collins family understands the value of doubling down on what matters most: people. Their goal for Depot Village is clear—to create a space where the community feels welcomed and involved. They envision Depot Village as a place where guests can become members, actively participating in the life and energy of the space.
Future Plans and Community Engagement
Looking ahead, Depot Village has ambitious plans to expand its offerings. A health and wellness spa is on the horizon, along with membership-based services that will provide exclusive access to events, amenities, and experiences. These future developments are all rooted in their desire to foster a deeper sense of community and belonging.
Depot Village isn’t just a venue—it’s a living story of family, dedication, and community impact. Through hard work, vision, and a steadfast commitment to customer service, Eli and Austin Collins are not only sustaining their businesses but are also enriching Gainesville’s cultural landscape. Depot Village is where tradition meets innovation, and where every guest is more than a visitor—they’re part of the family.
Visit Depot Village
For more information on upcoming events or to book your next stay or event, visit Depot Village in Downtown Gainesville. Experience the charm, creativity, and community that define this exceptional space.
