Rocky River Nature Center

Positioned along the Rocky River, Rocky River Nature Center provides a full visitor experience with opportunities to discover and learn about current Ohio wildlife, ancient species such as Dunkleosteus along with prehistoric and pioneer cultures.  

HideAway Hollow is a giant oak tree where kids can play and discover.
 
Explore the gardens outside on your way to over five miles of trails that lead from the Nature Center. The trails will take you to the river’s edge, a wetland forest, ponds, hilltops and ancient American Indian earthworks. These trails provide immediate access to the Fort Hill Stairs. The nature sightings change along the trail in each season.

Request a Custom Program

Rocky River Nature Center Group Program Guide (PDF)

Cleveland Metroparks Nature Shop located on-site.

Take a virtual tour of Rocky River Nature Center

Rental Information

Fee: $300 for 4-hour minimum Saturday and Sunday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Rentals after 5 p.m. are $800 for a 4-hour minimum
*For weekday and evening rentals contact nature center directly*
Capacity: Based on room set up. See options below.
Parking Capacity: 90 (shared)
Best for: Birthday Parties & Showers, Corporate Events & Meetings
Amenities: Drinking Fountain, Electricity, Information/Assistance, Restrooms, Shopping/Souvenirs
Activities: Exploring Culture & History

*2024-2025 Rental Availability*
Rentals for all of 2024 are now open.
January 2 – 16, 2025 rentals will open online December 11, 2024.
January 17 – December 31, 2025 rentals will open online January 2, 2025.

**Alcohol is not permitted at rentals during open business hours**

Chairs only: 150
Classroom style (guests sit facing the screen)

• 8 ft rectangular tables: 7 tables, seats up to 28
• 6 ft rectangular tables: 16 tables, seats up to 48

Cafeteria style (guests sit facing each other)

• 8 ft rectangular tables: 6 tables, seats up to 36
• 6 ft rectangular tables: 14 tables, seats up to 56

Party style (guests sit around tables)

• 5 ft round tables; 11 tables, seats up to 66

If interested in adding a naturalist program to your rental, indicate your interest in the booking page order notes section. Naturalist programs are subject to staff availability and require advanced notice.