Home to Florida's largest and oldest university, Gainesville has matured into a thriving center for education, healthcare, and culture. The University of Florida and Shands Hospital are major employers for the entire region. Acclaimed for the preservation of historic buildings and the beauty of its natural surroundings, Gainesville features lovely parks, fine museums, and sparkling lakes. The community continues to win accolades for livability with its panoramic landscape and urban "forest." The city operates a regional transit system, a municipal airport, and a championship golf course. Residents are only a short drive from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, ensuring a wealth of outdoor adventure and water-sport recreational opportunities. From its elegant cultural venues to welcoming neighborhoods and suburban amenities, Gainesville is unrivaled for quality of live.