Where to Stay for the Valspar Championship: A Peaceful Riverfront Alternative to Innisbrook Resort
Planning a trip to the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida? If you're looking for a quieter and more affordable place to stay during tournament weekend, Suwannee Gables Motel on the Suwannee River offers a relaxing retreat away from crowded resort hotels.
Located in Old Town, Florida, along the historic Suwannee River, Suwannee Gables Motel provides a peaceful North Florida base for travelers who want to combine the excitement of major sporting events with the natural beauty of “Old Florida.”
Attending the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook Resort
The Valspar Championship, part of the PGA Tour, is held annually at the Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor. Known for its challenging final three holes — famously called the “Snake Pit” — the tournament draws golf fans from across the country each spring.
Visitors attending the Valspar Championship often look for:
Affordable alternatives to resort pricing
Quiet accommodations outside busy tourist hubs
Unique Florida experiences beyond the golf course
For travelers willing to drive and explore more of the state, staying in North Florida offers a completely different pace.
Why Stay at Suwannee Gables Motel During Florida Sporting Events?
While many visitors choose large hotels near tournament venues, others prefer a more relaxed and scenic home base. Suwannee Gables Motel offers:
Riverfront cabins and guest rooms
Family-owned hospitality
Peaceful natural surroundings
Easy access to kayaking, fishing, and nearby springs
Free parking and spacious grounds
A quiet alternative to crowded resort areas
Instead of staying in a high-traffic tourist zone, guests return each evening to the calm of the Suwannee River.
Where Is Suwannee Gables Motel Located?
Suwannee Gables Motel is located in Old Town, Florida, in Dixie County, directly along the Suwannee River.
Nearby destinations include:
Live Oak, Florida
Chiefland, Florida
Fanning Springs State Park
Manatee Springs State Park
Gainesville, Florida
The property is accessible via US-19, making it an easy drive for travelers exploring multiple regions of Florida during their trip.
Things to Do Near the Suwannee River Between Tournament Days
For visitors attending sporting events in Florida, adding a riverfront stay creates a well-rounded getaway. Popular activities near Suwannee Gables Motel include:
Kayaking and Paddleboarding On The Suwannee River
The Suwannee River is ideal for scenic paddling through cypress-lined waterways.
Swimming in Florida Natural Springs
Nearby freshwater springs provide crystal-clear swimming areas year-round.
Fishing and Boating
The Suwannee River is known for bass fishing and peaceful boating excursions.
Exploring Small-Town Florida
Visit nearby towns like Live Oak and Chiefland for local dining, shops, and live music.
This combination of sports excitement and natural relaxation makes for a uniquely Florida travel experience.
A Different Kind of Florida Stay
Unlike large resort chains, Suwannee Gables Motel offers a more personal atmosphere. The property features mid-century charm blended with modern comforts, providing guests with a quiet place to recharge after busy travel days.
Whether you're attending the Valspar Championship, visiting Florida during major soccer tournaments, or planning a sports-focused road trip, staying on the Suwannee River offers something most resort areas cannot — space, calm, and authentic Old Florida scenery.
Plan Your Florida Sports Getaway
If you're traveling to Florida for a major sporting event and want to experience more than just the stadium or course, consider pairing your trip with a riverfront stay.
Suwannee Gables Motel in Old Town, Florida offers a peaceful alternative to high-density tourist lodging while keeping you connected to the excitement of the Sunshine State.
Frequently Asked Questions About Staying Near the Valspar Championship
Where is the Valspar Championship held?
The Valspar Championship is held annually at the Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida. It is part of the PGA Tour schedule and typically takes place in the spring.
What is the “Snake Pit” at the Valspar Championship?
The “Snake Pit” refers to the final three holes (16, 17, and 18) at the Copperhead Course. These holes are known for being some of the most challenging finishing holes on the PGA Tour.
Is Suwannee Gables Motel near Innisbrook Resort?
Suwannee Gables Motel is located in Old Town, Florida, along the Suwannee River. While it is not directly next to Innisbrook Resort, it offers a quieter North Florida lodging option for travelers looking to explore multiple regions of the state during their visit.
Why choose a riverfront motel instead of a resort hotel?
Many travelers prefer riverfront accommodations because they offer:
Lower nightly rates than large resorts
Less traffic and crowding
Access to outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing
A more peaceful, natural setting
What activities are available near Suwannee Gables Motel?
Guests can enjoy kayaking on the Suwannee River, swimming in nearby natural springs, fishing, boating, and exploring small North Florida towns like Live Oak and Chiefland.
Is Suwannee Gables Motel good for families?
Yes. The riverfront setting, spacious outdoor areas, and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular option for families seeking a nature-focused Florida getaway.