Ten Ways to Explore Cleveland Metroparks Nature Centers
All centers are open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Explore the oldest nature center
Drop-by Brecksville Nature Center to enjoy the oldest standing nature center in the Cleveland Metroparks, with decor and original hand carved works from the Works Progress Administration. This nature center opened in 1939 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Bird watch by the warmth of the fire
Get out of the cold at Brecksville Nature Center to relax in one of our hand-crafted wooden rocking chairs and enjoy the variety of birds in our bird watching area surrounded by the warmth of the fireplace.
Get aboard the canal boat
Bring your child—or embrace your inner child—aboard the CanalWay Center's canal boat replica to explore life on the Ohio & Erie Canal from nearly 200 years ago through interactive play. During your visit, lose yourself in a book, piece together a puzzle, or simply observe the resident snakes or frogs in the Nature Nook.
Take the hunt of the month
Drop-in with family and friends to participate in our Hunt of the Month at CanalWay Center. This scavenger hunt activity is suitable for all ages, ensuring fun for everyone. You have the option to work solo, team up with others, or even compete in a kids vs. adults showdown. The themes change monthly to keep the adventure fresh and exciting.
See live animals and plan your adventures
Stop into North Chagrin Nature Center, the educational hub that ties North Chagrin Reservation together. Enjoy our live animal exhibits, talk to a naturalist or grab a trail map to plan your next adventure out in the parks.
Check out the owl aviary
Interested in an outdoor adventure? Search around the outside of North Chagrin Nature Center to find our five animal statues and then make your way to our owl aviary. Year-round, you can see live owls on display outdoors!
Enjoy a warm beverage
After enjoying our trails around Rocky River Reservation, relax in a rocking chair at Rocky River Nature Center while enjoying a warm beverage or snack from the Nature Shop while you get an up-close look at the many birds that live here.
Learn about fish – even prehistoric ones!
Learn about the history of the Rocky River Valley and the 360-million-year-old giant fish fossil found just 100 yards from the Rocky River Nature Center. Take in the shale cliffs that make up Fort Hill from the deck overlooking the Rocky River.
Visit the Wetland Discovery Room
Get your little ones out of the house and visit our Wetland Discovery Room in the Watershed Stewardship Center. From a ball pit to live animals, there is something for all ages to enjoy.
Learn how to be an environmental steward
Stop in West Creek’s Watershed Stewardship Center to check out our unique exhibits which will help you learn how to become a better steward of our local waterways.
