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| - I remember going to the Nature Center when I was little and it's still hard at 28 years of age to pass it up on a day in the Metroparks.
I know, it's pretty much always the same stuff, but when you re-experience it with a kid, you start playing with all the exhibits again. You just can't help yourself.
For first timers and kids, this place rocks. Whether it's a school field trip or a hike with the family, this little Nature Center is a must-stop. First, it's free. Hardly anything that's entertaining for kids is free these days. Just pack up some snacks, your pup and the kids, take a hike and stop by this spot. There's tons of kid-friendly info (and even some adult friendly stuff), hands-on exhibits and even some that can be climbed on. My favorite has always been the big tree stump reading nook with secret doors and windows containing dried bug exhibits, fake squirrels and snake skins. There's even a little gift shop stocked with snacks, drinks and knick-knacks.
And you can't miss the awesome view of the Rocky River and the lush forest of the Emerald Necklace from their back deck. It's just awesome all together (and I mentioned free, right?)
Around the holidays, like Halloween, they host little activities for the fam, like dog costume contests and mazes with treats and a photo booth. And when you walk around the outside of the Nature Center, take those daunting looking steps, the burning thighs are worth the view from the top, in any season! Plus, it tuckers out kids, which is always a plus.
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