Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center

The Nature Nook is located in the Murray Arts Building and an inviting space where children enjoy interactive learning experiences on a variety of nature topics. This specially-designed space features hands-on activities and rotating exhibits. Visit and explore the natural world of Annmarie Garden.

The exhibit theme changes every year, but you can always find these fun stations:
 

Animals in Residence- We have several critters living in the Nature Nook. Come meet Frida our axolotl, Cornelia (formally known as Kernal) our corn snake, Salvador and Dali our box turtles, and Sunny our map turtle. Want to join the Critter Care team? Email naturalist@annmariegarden.org.

 Creature Features- These temporary visitors could be anything from caterpillars to tadpoles, treefrogs or dung beetles. You never know what you'll find in this ever-changing display.

Magnification Station- Take a closer look and something in the natural world. We might feature the wing of a dragonfly or the pores of a mushroom. Use tools like magnifiers, binoculars, or microscopes to see the tiny details.

Observation Station- Located by a window overlooking our bird garden, this area invites you to look outside in the garden for learning moments. It is also a chance to connect what you are learning about inside with what you see outside.

Pretend Play zone- Let your imagination run wild! Sometimes we have a dress up moment, sometimes puppets, and sometimes we have specially selected stuffed animals as part of the exhibit. 

The Book Nook- The Book Nook features books selected specifically for the exhibit theme. It is a cozy place for families to read together. The Nook also includes a reference library for adults eager to learn more about a variety of nature and gardening topics. 

 2024 Nature Nook Exhibit: Lifecycles of The Flora and Fauna

On display March 2024 - January 2025

This exhibit features a large diversity of plant and animal lifecycles with a focus on life stages. See live critters in different stages of life: tadpoles, caterpillars, aquatic insects and other visiting wildlife. Make giant lifecycle floor puzzles, play games, and investigate hands-on models and specimens. Learn about salamanders and their life cycles including our featured fauna, the newt. Meet Frida, the axolotl who will never have an adult stage where she leaves the water like spotted salamanders.

Explore the weird and wonderful world of metamorphosis in this exhibit. 

Join us for a Family Nature Walk!   SEE THE SCHEDULE