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Welcome to Brookside Gardens Nature Center
Entrance
When you arrive, you will see a sign at the edge of the road welcoming you.
Turn into the entrance and continue down the road.
Visitor and Bus Parking
Brookside Nature Center has one parking lot, facing the Nature Center with accessible parking spaces at the beginning of the lot. It also has two designated bus parking spots near the main entrance for nature center programs.
Nature Center
Brookside Nature Center may not always be open to the public. Be sure to check the hours of operation before visiting.
Entrance
You can enter the building using either the wooden stairs or the ramp. From the parking lot, the stairs are on the right, and the ramp is on the left. Both lead to the same front entrance, equipped with automatic doors that can be opened by pressing the push button.
Inside the Nature Center
The nature center offers a playroom, a small seating area for taking breaks, a classroom for programs, and park maps.
Live Animal Displays
The center has live animal displays with turtles, frogs, and snakes. These animals are in their special homes where they can be safe and comfortable. It’s important to look at them carefully and not touch or disturb them, so they can stay safe and healthy.
Bathrooms
The bathrooms include an accessible toilet, a sink for washing hands, a changing table, and a hand dryer. You may want to bring headphones if you don’t like the noise of flushing.
Nature Play Spaces
Around the nature center there are a variety of nature play spaces to use. This includes a sandpit, mud kitchen, chalk board, weaving frame and more. To reach the play space, follow the natural surface trail to the green house. The sidewalk on the right will lead you there. You can also drive past the nature center and up the short hill to the green house, where a small parking lot is available, including one accessible parking space.
Woodland Amphitheater Campfire Rental
The center offers campfire rentals, which include picnic tables and access to the amphitheater. Make sure to contact the center before arrival for rent availability.
Pond
The center also has a pond with a dock and an accessible boardwalk. Always follow any signs or instructions to stay safe.
Additional Information
Brookside Nature Center offers a variety of activities and programs. The area is very wooded, so it’s a good idea to wear bug spray to help protect against ticks and gnats.
