Let the kids explore a world built for their size!
The award-winning Nature’s Neighborhood opened in summer 2009 and is a naturalized nature play space for kids of all ages. Many children don’t have or take opportunities to connect with nature in our increasingly technological world. Nature’s Neighborhood is the perfect place to make those connections. Regardless of the season, there are plenty of imaginative opportunities in Nature’s Neighborhood.
Animals
Monarch butterfly
Danaus plexippus
Pied tamarin
Saguinus bicolor
Guinea pig
Cavia porcellus
Attractions
Home Sweet Home
Play in our pet kitchen, meet and greet live animals and learn how to care for pets.
Bee Hive
Be a bee and watch a real hive in action!
Workshop
Get hands-on learning about animal behaviors, diets and more!
Jumpin’ Junction
Let your imagination run wild with dress up clothes, puppets and more!
Outdoor Stage
An open, outdoor environment for guests of all ages to meet and greet many of the Zoo’s ambassador animals!
Stream and Beach
Get your feet wet, your hands in the sand, or both!
Treehouse and Climbing Wall
Let your kids make their own fun in our one-of-a-kind treehouse!
Butterfly Hut
See all the life stages of Monarch butterflies
These areas are seasonal and weather dependent.
Dining and Merchandise
Monarch Marketplace
Grab and go healthy eats
Curio Shop (at Museum)
Unique specialty gifts, books and Museum souvenirs