The Historic Thomas Center

What was once a private residence and hotel is now a cultural events center for the community and surrounding areas of Gainesville, Florida. This Mediterranean Revival-style building is the setting for contemporary art exhibitions, multiple restored period rooms and numerous historical exhibits. Its meeting rooms and performance spaces are sought-after venues for weddings, conferences and social events. The Galleries at the Historic Thomas Center are dedicated to bringing inspiration to both art patrons and artists of the region, with vibrant, challenging exhibitions throughout the year.

Thomas Center Gallery

In recent years, the Thomas Center Gallery has showcased three national debuts of artists with ties to the local community: sculptor Jesse Aaron, painter Eddy Mumma, and printmaker Louise Leak. Year-round, visitors can expect thought-provoking exhibitions featuring regional, national and international work of excellence.

The Doris Bardon Gallery

Under the glass atrium ceiling over the Spanish Court, the second floor of the Historic Thomas Center houses The Doris Bardon Gallery. The open space lends itself to exhibitions of large contemporary works which are enhanced by natural light and can be experienced from both close viewing distance and across the majestic open architecture. Each year in late winter, The Doris Bardon Gallery showcases the work of local students through a partnership with the Alachua County Public Schools Visual Arts Program.

Rentals

The center is available to host bridal or baby showers, banquets, formals, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, quinceañeras or your very special occasion. The west veranda is the perfect introduction to the Thomas Center before your guests are ushered graciously inside. There too, you can impress your out-of-town visitors with cocktails overlooking lush southern gardens, our original fountain and rose, camellia and azalea plantings. The Spanish Court, situated at the heart of the Thomas Center, rises two-stories to a full skylight. It is surrounded by a colonnade and second story Mezzanine area. This room is perfect for meetings, banquets, receptions or luncheons.