UF Bat Houses

This is a must-do in Gainesville. Picture it: people start gathering as dusk comes on and there’s a feeling of excitement and community in the air. Lake Alice is behind you and there’s a nice breeze. Just as the streetlights come in, thousands of bats start coming out all at once. They usually emerge about 10-15 minutes after sun down. A really great experience I can’t recommend enough!

The bats start trickling out around sunset/dusk time. In September, that is 7:40. If you come a little before then, you can get a good spot right by the houses and watch them soar overhead with other people. If you’re looking for something relaxing to do, and this happens every night, maybe try this.

We visited because my partner loves animals, and he absolutely loved this experience. In his words, it was exciting, communal, scientifically meaningful, and a rare opportunity to witness a natural event in a controlled and respectful environment. Watching the bats emerge was genuinely fascinating. It gave us access to something you'd never be able to see otherwise, since these bats typically live deep in caves. The area also has a peaceful lakefront spot where you can relax and unwind while waiting for the bats to come out. Definitely worth it for nature and wildlife enthusiasts!

Amazing biodiversity in the lake across the street, dozens of species of birds, turtles, and an alligator enjoying the sunset. The bats flying out to enjoy the evening was also cool

It's wonderful to visit UF Bat house near Correy Village. I visited Bat house early in the morning and I observed that hundreds of bats coming from different directions, entering into the houses in a disciplined manners. It continued till daylight become bright. Again I visited the Bat house in the afternoon, waited till sunset. There is a good arrangement of sitting by the Side walk where one can comfortably wait for the bats coming out in flocks from the houses, flying in hundreds of bats in different directions. Opposite to the Bat house, you will find the famous Lake Alice in Gainesville City, FL, USA.

Very cool place to bring the kids. Large crowd of students arrive to watch the bats leave during sunset so get there a little early if you want to stand right in front. It looks and feels like endless bats fly out. Love coming here.

We went in the evening with our food and we spent 4 hours from 4 to 8. We took a lot of photos with the blossoming flower. And the ecstatic view of Lake Alice on the other side of road was awesome! Feel so fresh in the cool air and beautiful view! Highly recommend for visit!