Children's Discovery Room
Discovery Room
No age group has been more impacted by the pandemic than children. The Children's Discovery Room allows a safe space for your children to explore and play outside your home. Families will have the ability to rent out individual time slots for the Discovery Room for a socially distant play experience. This unique environment allows for fun educational opportunities by allowing children to use their own curiosity and imagination to interact with their environment.
Classes
2021 Class Series
We are pleased to offer a series of educational classes at the Arboretum starting January of 2021. Many of our courses are geared toward the outdoor enthusiast, however with courses ranging from Dog Training, to Tree ID and Nature Journaling, we have a class for everyone! We have classes available for individuals of all ability levels and age groups.
The skills and experiences gained through educational opportunities last a lifetime. Treat yourself, or offer the gift of education this year by considering one or our classes as a gift for someone special!
Current class offerings can be viewed by clicking on the "class registration" button below.
Tours
General Tours
When you join us for an interpretive tour you will be immersed in the rich history and biodiversity of the Viles Arboretum in a way you have never experienced before. We will explore natural and human connections to our botanical collections, and the complex balances that exist between them. Our tours are also great for those interested in learning more about the wildlife which call the Arboretum home!
Each tour is designed to cater to the individual interests of group members, let us know what you are interested in learning more about! Some of the topics that may be covered include, but are not limited to;
- History and future of the American Chestnut.
- Influence of tree species in human industry and culture.
- The Arboretum as wildlife habitat.
- Sites of the historic hospital farm and history of the Arboretum grounds.
- Sustainable forestry and agriculture techniques.
- And much more!
Tours are offered at a rate of $14 per adult, and $8 per child, with a group minimum of two participants.
Field Trip Programs
Get the kids outside and involved in nature! We are pleased to offer programs that cater to the interests of younger audiences. Our youth programs are designed to excite and encourage kids to interact with their surroundings. Participants will seek out areas where wildlife such as frogs, turtles, deer and numerous bird species can be found to allow children to interact with wildlife in a positive learning environment with our tour guides. Programs can be designed to cater to the needs and interests of individual groups to ensure the best possible experience.
General Information:
- Cost is $8 per child- $80 group minimum for a one hour program.
- We can bring programs to your classroom, or where your group meets, too. Ask about this as appropriate when you call.
- Groups must provide one teacher or adult chaperone for every 10 students.
- Come prepared for the weather - it can be chilly anytime of the year. Long pants, sturdy boots, and layers - such as sweaters and windbreakers that can be added or removed, are recommended.
- While not all our trails are wheelchair accessible, there are programs and activities available for students with disabilities. Ask about this when you call.
- Learn from knowledgeable staff and volunteers skilled in outdoor lore, plant identification, animal life, and wetlands.
- Programs generally start at 9:30 or 10:00 but may start at other times to better match the time you have available.