Ted, since me and pops have been going to the Gators since 2006, I have a couple of pointers and recommendations for you.
Let's start with the track. It's located out in the middle of nowhere and CR-225 is the only access road to the track. Be sure to wake up early and hit the road early otherwise you'll be facing the world's most frustrating traffic jam. Also, you might want to invest in a "preferred parking" pass. It's worth it's weight in gold, and it might save you from having to park next to the UF silos (Plus you can skip some of the traffic). Inside the track, they re-arranged the pits so nearly all the cars are lined up in one isle. If you're a fan of the sportsman racers, their pits are located past the 1/4 mile marker but you'll have the best experience talking to the men and women there. Speaking of pits, there are no pit areas on the left - just the right side of the strip. Best to get seats on the "pit side" of the track.
BTW, I can't stress this enough - bring your jackets! North Florida does get cold in March. As an FYI, spring is when the farmers in the area choose to pollinate their crops so make sure you pack an allergy medication with you if you're allergic.
As for food, Gainseville is a "college town" littered with run-of-the-mill chain restaurants, but I have managed to sniff out some nice places. Since you're staying in Woodspring, there is a nice little place called the "43rd Street Deli & Breakfast House" pretty much right across the street on Williston Rd. Best place to go for breakfast hands down! I usually go to the Ale House on Thursday, but any day you can find racers hanging out there. If you're into Japanese Food, there is a little place called "Sushi Matsuri" located in a strip mall on Archer Road that reminds me of a place close by my house. Two of my favorites are not near the track, but a couple of miles to the north - For Italian, try "Francesca's Trattoria." If you like Chinese food, There is a place off Newberry Rd called "Mr Han." Best chinese restuarant I have tried up there, but if you're going to stop in Ocala that is a place called Yummy House that is pretty good also.
Did I mention Ocala? If it's your first time, you have got to make the Don Garlits Museum a required trip. So much history packed into one place. You might even run into the man himself.
If need to know more, feel free to ask.
