Best Nature Centers for Kids Around Boston

Tracy Snyder Molina said:  The Science Center is home to a nature center, Children’s Garden, and several interpretive trails. The Children’s Garden allows children of all ages and abilities to get their hands in the dirt and explore where food comes from through sustainable gardening. The center also offers a wide variety of programming, including camps and a nature preschool.

Tracy Snyder Molina said:   Explore the fields, oak forest and salt marsh which attracts a wide variety of birds. Seals are also often seen from the riverside platform. The nature center has two discovery rooms for nature play, scientific observation or just relaxing in the book nook. A gift shop features locally handcrafted items in addition to nature books, bird feeders and nature-themed gifts.

Tracy Snyder Molina said:  A popular spot for bird watching, this wildlife sanctuary is home to a purple martin colony and many wetland birds such as green herons. Kids will enjoy looking for turtles, muskrats and mink along the observation boardwalks.

Tracy Snyder Molina said:   Located on the shores of Smiling Pool and adjacent to the famous Briar Patch of Thornton Burgess’s stories about Peter Rabbit and friends, the Green Briar Nature Center offers interpreted nature trails, a beautiful wildflower garden and natural history programs such as guided nature walks, story times, workshops for children and adults and their very popular nature-themed birthday parties.

Tracy Snyder Molina said:  Mass Audubon's largest sanctuary offers 12 miles of interconnecting trails for exploring through forest, meadows and wetlands with plenty of wildlife viewing. The trails lead to a vernal pool and observation tower, along boardwalks and a rockery which consists of several narrow passages and caves. There is also a nature play area for the kids to enjoy. The sanctuary also offers several educational programs.

Tracy Snyder Molina said:   Overlooking the Merrimack River, the Joppa Flats Education Center allows visitors to explore the region’s wildlife-rich habitats through guided tours, marine touch tanks in the summer, art exhibits, drop-in programs for children, families and adults, as well as interpretive displays. They also offer indoor and outdoor wildlife observation areas.

Tracy Snyder Molina said:   The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History invites visitors to discover, learn and appreciate the nature of Cape Cod. The museum has an aquarium and several nature exhibits. In the summer months, check out the butterfly house and feed an adult butterfly by hand! There are several hands-on activities for kids to explore and the museum also runs a great summer program for kids.

Tracy Snyder Molina said:   Set overlooking Wellfleet Harbor, the sanctuary features extensive trails that travel through salt marsh, sandy beach and pine woodland as well as an award-winning "green" nature center with several nature exhibits, aquariums and gift shop.