Considered a hidden gem by local families, Dodge Nature Center is a great place to bring kids. Featuring nature walks, educational programming and a working farm, people of all ages will have lots of fun outdoors. The main office and property is located in West Saint Paul, but Dodge also manages natural areas in Mendota Heights and Cottage Grove. Different programs are offered at all of the properties, so be careful to note the location and entrance when attending an event. In keeping with its mission to “provide exceptional experiences in nature through environmental education”, the unique Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul-Mendota Heights is ideal for an unstructured ramble outside, and also offers outdoor education, community events and indoor programming in their beautiful farm buildings. There is a charge for the programs, but a family walk through the Dodge property costs nothing and the acres of trails are open to the public during daylight hours seven days a week. Moving indoors, the Nature Center offers all kinds of classes, tours and events aimed at a wide span of ages. We have, for instance, taken part in their homeschool science classes, taken farm tours through St. Paul ECFE, and observed other parent-child programs. Watch for year-round family-friendly events on our Family Fun Calendar. Each year around March, Minnesota maple trees come to life with a burst of sap. Dodge Nature Center joins in the the fun with maple syruping events and activities. One of our favorite places to find Minnesota Farm Babies. The farm usually offers additional events in the spring to help visitors welcome all the new babies. Of course summer is the best time to visit — the miles of trails are easily accessible, animals are more active, the weather is best and the hours between sunrise and sunset last the longest. Each year, Dodge Nature Center hosts a popular Halloween event for families.
Families can book birthday parties at the center for up to 15 children. Parties include time with a naturalist and access to the schoolhouse. You can choose between a variety of naturalist programs. Summer camps are offered for grade school and preschool aged kids June through August. Campers explore the outdoors.Related Articles:
Here’s what you might find on your walk:
Indoor Activities at Dodge Nature Center
Dodge Nature Center Year-Round Fun
Winter Maple Syrup
Spring Farm Babies
Summer Farm Activities
Fall Halloween Fun
Birthday Parties at Dodge Nature Center
Find More Birthday Parties in Parks & Nature Centers Here.
Summer Camps at Dodge Nature Center
Twin Cities Summer Camps: Nature & Outdoor Adventure Camps
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