Located in the Murray Arts Building, the Nature Nook is an interactive space where children and families can discover the wonders of the natural world through hands-on exploration. Rotating exhibits, engaging activities, and live animal ambassadors inspire curiosity about local wildlife, habitats, gardening, and the changing seasons.
Throughout the year, you’ll find opportunities to meet resident critters, observe temporary animal guests, explore nature up close with magnification tools, enjoy imaginative play, or curl up with a good nature-themed book.
Nature Programs
Explore your inner naturalist through hands-on programs for all ages. Choose Outdoor Classes to discover guided programs such as Family Nature Walks, or browse Adult Workshops for offerings like Houseplant Prop & Swap and the Holiday Wreathmaking Party.
Animals in Residence
Get to know the Nature Nook’s resident animal ambassadors! Each has a unique story and helps visitors learn about wildlife, habitats, and conservation.
Other Nature Nook Highlights
Exhibit | Plumage & Place: Birds of the World
Plumage and Place: Birds of the World invites visitors to explore the remarkable diversity of birds and the adaptations that help them thrive in habitats from forests to deserts. Discover how beaks, feet, feathers, and even bones reveal a bird’s lifestyle—from cracking nuts to sipping nectar or swimming with ease—and see houseplants paired with birds from their shared regions of origin. The exhibit highlights unusual, colorful, tall, and tiny species, showcases how evolution shapes form and function, and explains everyday threats like window collisions and how you can help. All ages will enjoy the eye-catching displays and hands-on activities throughout this exhibit.
Magnification Station
Take a closer look at the natural world through magnifiers, microscopes, binoculars, and other observation tools. Discover fascinating details that are often hidden from the naked eye, from delicate insect wings to the intricate textures of plants, fungi, and more.
The Book Nook
Curl up with a good book in our cozy Book Nook! Browse a collection of children’s stories and nature-themed books selected to complement the current exhibit, or explore resources for adults interested in gardening, wildlife, and the natural world.
Critter Keepers Volunteer Program
The Critter Keepers Program is a volunteer opportunity for animal lovers who want to help care for the Nature Nook’s resident animal ambassadors while supporting hands-on nature education at Annmarie. Critter Keepers assist with the daily care and enrichment of our animal residents and help ensure they thrive: this includes, but is not limited to, routinely cleaning their enclosures, feeding, and monitoring critter playtime.
We’re incredibly grateful to our dedicated Critter Keepers.
If you’re interested in becoming a Critter Keeper, email Hester, [email protected] to express your interest.
