Get your toddler excited about exploring the great outdoors! Join Discovery Zone nature ambassadors for a safe and interactive nature walk on Tot Tuesdays. Each program has a focused theme and encourages exploration with a close look at the natural world while also sharing Museum treasures.
This program promotes child-led sensory experiences and investigation with a focus on families exploring science together.
Weather permitting, Tot Trot Nature Walks will take place on Tuesdays unless noted otherwise. Each event will be unique and cover a different topic. Wear appropriate footwear and clothes that can get dirty or wet.
Length: About 1.5 hours
Age: Recommended for children ages 2-5 years old.
When: Most Tuesdays. The program will take a break in July and August.
Tickets
No pre-registration needed; payment will take place at the Museum before the nature walk. Each adult and child attending will need a ticket. Free for children under 2 years old. All children must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.
| Nature Walk cost | Members | Non-Members |
|---|---|---|
| Per Attendee* | $6 | $7 |
* Ticket prices are the same for children and adults.
Schedule
Check-in (9:00 a.m.):
Please arrive on time to check in. Meet at the Museum’s picnic tables outside and you will be escorted to the Discovery Zone exhibit for free play.
Introduction (9:15 a.m., about 15 minutes):
An engaging introduction to the topic in the Discovery Zone exhibit with hands-on activities.
Nature Walk (about 30 minutes):
Hike outside on trails behind the Museum while allowing children to safely touch, explore and interact with items on our path. Surprises await as we look closely at the world around us, encouraging teachable moments that are part of being outside in nature.
Wrap-up (10:30 a.m.):
Enjoy an activity and snack of peanut-free trail mix outside.
What to expect and bring
- Masks are welcome.
- Bring a water bottle and/or sippy cup.
- Wear long sleeves and pants or apply bug spray.
- Wear appropriate footwear and clothes that can get dirty or wet.
- This program is rain-or-shine, weather permitting.
- It is less than ½ a mile of walking (strollers not recommended). We could potentially get up to 30 minutes away from restrooms during the hike.
Upcoming Events
September:
9/5- Spiders
9/12- Animal Tracks
9/19- Animal Olympics
9/26- Water
October:
10/3- Trees
10/10- Mammals
10/17- Reptiles
10/24- NO TOT TROTS
10/31- Bones
November:
11/7- Wind
11/14- Sun & Shadow
11/21- NO TOT TROTS
11/28- Dirt
December:
12/5- Paleontology
12/12- Geology
12/19- Botany
12/26- NO TOT TROTS
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