Wildwood Nature Center

Stop in at the Wildwood Nature Center during our open hours to visit with the animals, and learn and play with nature in our Nature Nook.

From dawn to dusk, hike the trails outside at Wildwood to meander down the woodland walk, through the prairie paths, and around the pond. Look for local wildlife, native trees, flowers, and plants, and enjoy the surrounding beauty.

Public Visiting Hours for the Animal Room

Enter through the Animal Room exterior door located on the south east corner of the building.

Tuesdays 10:00am-6:00pm
Wednesdays 10:00am-6:00pm
Thursdays 10:00am-6:00pm
Saturdays 10:00am-4:00pm

HOLIDAY HOURS
November 23: Closed

CLOSURE NOTICE

The Nature Center will be closed August 11 through mid to late-September while we relocate the animals to their new home at 531 Forestview. Click here to learn more about the renovation project at 531 Forestview, and check back here for our reopening date.

Nature Nook

Visit the Nature Nook, a free interactive educational area complete with nature books, puzzles, puppets, games, and activities. Each month we explore a different nature topic.

Please note, the Nature Nook is closed during the summer due to summer camp programs.


Explore Wildwood's grounds with a self-guided walk through our five-acre natural oasis and enjoy our two ponds, restored native prairie, and woodland walk.

Register for a class or a workshop, or simply enjoy the pond and prairie during each seasonal change. It’s all here for you to enjoy!

Wildwood Nature Center's Mission Statement

To provide environmental education, outreach programs and natural experiences for people of all ages; strive to increase biodiversity, stewardship and awareness of the natural world; and mentor and lead individuals to respect and appreciate local wildlife and the environment.

Amenities

At the Nature Center

  • Live Animal Displays
  • Interactive Exhibits
  • Birthday Parties
  • Nature and Environmental Programs for All Ages
  • Scout & School Programs
  • Nature Nook (environmental play room)

In the Park

  • Self-Guided Woodland Walk
  • Walking Paths
  • Picnic Pavilion
  • Fishing Ponds
  • Campfire Pit (paid reservation required; call Wildwood to schedule your campfire event)
  • Restored Native Prairie
  • Rain Garden
  • Labyrinth
  • Human Sundial
  • Sam Biardo Prairie Observation Deck
  • Fishing Deck and Rock Landing Areas

Wildwood Party Packages

Looking for a ‘wild’ time? You can find it with a party at Wildwood Nature Center! The perfect location for your child's next birthday celebration.

Our fun nature and animal-inspired parties are a unique way to celebrate your next event both indoors and outdoors. Or, choose a party that is not only fun for your guests but also helps to support Wildwood Nature Center.

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Wildwood Nature Center