Elachee Nature Science Center
Discover native wildlife and explore a vast nature preserve with engaging educational programs and guided hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Engaging tours & fewer crowds
Elachee Nature Science Center
Best Time
Engaging tours & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover native wildlife and explore a vast nature preserve with engaging educational programs and guided hikes.
"An absolute hidden gem! The staff are incredible, making learning fun for kids and adults alike."
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
The $10 tours are a must! Includes crafts, hikes, and animal talks. Worth every penny!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails, so good footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Animal Encounters
Indoor Exhibits
Get up close with native wildlife and learn about their habitats from passionate educators.
Guided Nature Hikes
Nature Preserve Trails
Explore the 1,440-acre preserve with knowledgeable guides, discovering local flora and fauna.
Cherokee History Trail
Nature Preserve Trails
Learn about the rich history of the Cherokee tribe and their connection to the land.
Special Events
Various Locations
Don't miss seasonal events like the highly-rated Halloween haunted trail!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Elachee
Parking and Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
The $10 tours are a must! Includes crafts, hikes, and animal talks. Worth every penny!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails, so good footwear is essential.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Visitors often spend 3+ hours here, and kids might want to stay even longer!
📅 Check Website for Events
Special events like the Halloween trail are incredibly popular and sell out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
The $10 tours are a must! Includes crafts, hikes, and animal talks. Worth every penny!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails, so good footwear is essential.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Visitors often spend 3+ hours here, and kids might want to stay even longer!
📅 Check Website for Events
Special events like the Halloween trail are incredibly popular and sell out.
💰 Parking Fee
Remember to factor in the parking fee when budgeting for your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Elachee Nature Science Center as a well-maintained, educational, and engaging destination for all ages. The knowledgeable and passionate staff, particularly educators like Katie, are frequently highlighted for creating memorable experiences with hands-on animal encounters and informative guided tours. While parking fees apply, the optional tours are considered excellent value.
"Came here for the Halloween haunted trail and it was so much fun! Thank you to everyone who stayed late to give us all a wonderful time. Best Halloween ever! Definitely worth the $40"
Bri
"My 3-year-old nanny kid had an absolute blast at the Elachee Nature Science Center today! I honestly can’t believe I hadn’t discovered this hidden gem sooner. The facility is beautifully maintained, educational, and engaging—but what truly made our visit exceptional was the staff, especially an incredible environmental educator named Katie.
From the moment we arrived, Katie went above and beyond to make our experience special. She took the time to thoughtfully answer all of my questions and my curious little one’s (no easy feat!). She patiently guided us through hands-on animal encounters, offering safe, up-close experiences that were both fun and educational.
What really stood out was her natural ability to connect with children—Katie was so kind, patient, and skillful at gently redirecting my energetic three-year-old. You can instantly tell she’s passionate about what she does and deeply cares for the animals in her care. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and her kindness left a lasting impression.
Thank you, Katie, for turning our visit into such a magical and memorable adventure! We can’t wait to come back."
Annie Borges
"Very nice facility and very well organized and guided hiking trip for school field trip. A lot of information about nature and history of the Cherokee tribe along the hiking trip. Overall a very nice place to visit with family ."
D' Ari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elachee Nature Science Center is located in Gainesville, Florida. While specific directions can be found on their website, it's generally accessible by car. Visitors mention paying for parking upon arrival.
Yes, parking is available at the Elachee Nature Science Center, but there is a fee associated with it.
Information on public transport accessibility is not widely available from visitor reviews. Driving and parking is the most common method mentioned. +1
The address for Elachee Nature Science Center can be found on their official website. It's recommended to check their site for the most up-to-date location details.
While not explicitly mentioned in reviews, Elachee is situated within a large nature preserve, offering ample opportunities for outdoor exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While general admission to explore the grounds is free, there is a parking fee. Optional guided tours cost $10 per person and are highly recommended for an enhanced experience. +1
It's advisable to check the Elachee Nature Science Center's website for any advance booking requirements, especially for special events like the Halloween trail, which can sell out.
The $10 tour typically includes a craft activity, a guided hike with educational information, and a pet education session, making it a comprehensive and engaging experience.
Visitor reviews do not specifically mention discounts. However, the value of the $10 tour is frequently highlighted as being well worth the cost. +1
Operating hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to consult the official Elachee Nature Science Center website for the most current information on opening and closing times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Elachee Nature Science Center features native wildlife, offering close-up, educational encounters with various animals. Staff are passionate about their care and knowledgeable about their habitats.
Absolutely! Elachee is part of a 1,440-acre nature preserve with well-maintained hiking trails. Guided hikes are available and highly recommended for learning about the local ecosystem and Cherokee history.
Yes, Elachee is a fantastic destination for children! Reviews consistently praise its engaging exhibits, hands-on activities, and knowledgeable staff who make learning fun for all ages.
The Halloween haunted trail is a highly popular special event, described as incredibly fun and a 'best Halloween ever' experience by visitors. It's worth the admission fee.
Most visitors find they can easily spend 3 hours or more exploring Elachee, with children often wanting to stay even longer due to the engaging nature of the exhibits and activities.
📸 📸 Photography
The nature trails offer scenic views of local flora and fauna, perfect for nature photography. The animal exhibits also provide opportunities for unique shots, especially during educational sessions.
Yes, photography of the animals is generally permitted, but always be respectful of their space and follow any guidelines provided by the staff to ensure their well-being.
There is no specific mention of drone usage in visitor reviews. It's best to check Elachee's official policy regarding drone photography to avoid any issues.
For the trails, a versatile lens that can handle both wider landscapes and closer shots of wildlife would be beneficial. For animal exhibits, a lens with good low-light performance might be useful.
While generally allowed, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography, especially in sensitive exhibit areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the optional $10 tours, which are highly recommended for families as they include crafts, guided hikes, and educational sessions that keep kids entertained for hours. The Halloween haunted trail is also a must-do if visiting in the fall, offering a thrilling and memorable experience. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the trails and factor in the parking fee.
💰 Budget Travelers
The optional $10 guided tours are frequently cited as being 'well worth it' by visitors, offering a comprehensive experience with crafts, hikes, and educational talks. This makes it an affordable way to significantly enhance your visit and learn more about the local environment and history.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Consider joining a guided hike to gain deeper insights into the ecosystem, learn about native plants, and discover the historical significance of the area, particularly the Cherokee History Trail. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, making it more than just a walk in the woods.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Nature Preserve
One of the highlights of exploring the preserve is the Cherokee History Trail. This trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural insight, providing information about the history of the Cherokee tribe and their deep connection to this land. It's a well-organized and guided experience that adds a significant educational layer to the hike.
For those seeking a more structured exploration, guided hikes are available and highly recommended. These tours, often part of the paid experience, are led by knowledgeable naturalists who can point out hidden wonders, identify plants and animals, and share fascinating facts about the ecosystem and local history. It's an excellent way to maximize your understanding and appreciation of the preserve.
Engaging with Elachee's Educators
These educators excel at connecting with young minds, patiently answering a barrage of questions and skillfully guiding curious children through close-up interactions with animals. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and their genuine care for the animals and the environment is evident. This personal touch transforms a typical visit into a magical adventure, leaving a lasting positive impression on both children and adults.
Whether it's a 'No School Nature Day' or a regular weekend visit, the naturalists at Elachee are dedicated to providing informative and fun sessions. From pet education to wildlife demonstrations, they ensure that every visitor, regardless of age, leaves with a greater appreciation for nature and its inhabitants.
Special Events and Seasonal Fun
These events often require advance planning and can sell out, highlighting their popularity. Visitors are encouraged to check the Elachee website regularly for announcements about upcoming seasonal activities, workshops, and themed days. This proactive approach ensures you don't miss out on the most sought-after experiences.
Beyond Halloween, Elachee offers various programs throughout the year, including 'No School Nature Days' and other educational events designed to complement the permanent exhibits and outdoor exploration. These events provide excellent opportunities for families to engage with nature in a festive and informative setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit