Lakeside Nature Center

What a wonderful place! This was our first time here and we will be back for sure! Just like its neighbor, the zoo, it has lots of exhibits and animals to see - minus the huge crowds! Even though it’s much smaller, the kids loved seeing the bald eagle, coyote, tarantula and the turtles - plus many more animals and birds. There’s lots of hiking paths, a nice picnic area and a cute little gift shop area. We can’t wait to return!

We didn't actually go into the nature center, but plan to another day. Instead we walked the Fox Hollow Trail. A nice hike for a 40° winter day. Still some snow on the ground. The only thing we didn't like so much was that the trail wasn't marked very well, and at times we weren't really sure if we were on the trail or not. We saw only two signs, but numerous places where it looked like people had deviated, whether on purpose or by accident, who knows. That was a minor thing though. It was a beautiful hike.

This place is incredible. Saves SO much wildlife from terrible deaths from accidental run-ins with modern human life. The folks who work here in the wildlife hospital are so dedicated and we in the community appreciate them so much. A great place to visit with the kids and go on a hike. And if you find injured wildlife give them a call and they will help you figure out what to do. Highly recommend

Love this place! We didn’t know it existed until we had to bring a baby squirrel here that fell out of the neighbors tree. They have top quality animal exhibits and try their hardest to make everything as interactive as possible. Lots of things the kids can hold and touch and move and spin etc. They have a puppet stage for kids and lots of toys and puzzles all inside with AC, heat, and bathrooms. The ladies at the front desk are always friendly and are excited to answer any questions you may have. When you are tired of being inside they have a peaceful little area set up with a waterfall, benches, and bird feeders just outside the building. Then, if you’re feeling adventurous there are numerous trails around the building that you can hike. Really cool limestone bluffs that over look the train tracks. My kids always have a blast here!!

We love this Nature Center! It's so fun that they have live animals. This is such a great resource for families and adults alike.