The Woodlands (Houston), Texas—Benchmark has added the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center at Gainesville to its Benchmark Resorts & Hotels brand portfolio. The recently renovated, 248-guestroom property is located on the University of Florida campus, close to Gainesville’s Central Business District.
The property serves a growing market of visiting alumni, parents and students, academics, and guests affiliated with the university. Its IACC-approved conference center, with 25,000 square feet of meeting space, attracts a significant number of meetings and events. The Hilton University of Florida Conference Center at Gainesville is Benchmark’s tenth property in Florida and the third hotel on a major U.S. college campus.
“We are honored to be chosen by Hilton Hotels & Resorts to manage this exceptional property,” said Benchmark CEO Alex Cabañas. “We are also delighted to again expand our presence in Florida, where both our Gemstone Collection and Benchmark Resorts & Hotels brands are represented throughout the Sunshine State.” Benchmark recently added two hotels in St. Pete Beach to its portfolio, expanding its presence to Southwest Florida.
Cabañas also noted the growing importance of conference center hotels to a university. “These hotels serve as a campus ‘guest house’, providing an authentic, on-campus experience while sharing ideas and resources,” he said.
The non-smoking, pet-friendly hotel includes 248 guestrooms and suites with HDTV, desks for work/study, and complimentary WiFi. The property has an outdoor pool and whirlpool and a 24-hour fitness center.
The Hilton University of Florida Conference Center offers more than 25,000 square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor meeting and event space, including a 6,860-square-foot ballroom. The conference center hosts up to 700 attendees for a meeting and boardrooms accommodate up to 25 guests. The property has a business center and offers experienced conference planners. It is a member of IACC, formerly known as the International Association of Conference Centres.
Guests of the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center can choose from three dining options: Shula’s American Steakhouse for a hearty breakfast, steaks, and Florida-fresh seafood; No Name Lounge for lunch, light bites, cocktails, and dinner overlooking an outdoor dining patio and swimming pool; and in-room dining from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
