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. 

 2025 Nature Nook Exhibit

Maryland Quags: Hidden Wonders in Wetlands

On display March 2025 - January 2026

Plan to "get your feet wet" in this exhibit about Maryland quags. A quag is a marshy or boggy place. Explore our beautiful wetlands; marshes, swamps, bogs, vernal pools, and adjacent damp areas found on the edges of lakes, ponds, rivers and streams. Discover their incredible and sometimes hard-to-see inhabitants.

Pretend Play areas will have little ones wading, sloshing, paddling, and squishing through various wetland types. Visitors of all ages will have fun playing hide and seek games that will challenge your observational skills. And best of all... get a closer look at some live animals that are quite at home in these areas. This exhibit will make you appreciate these essential places and their clever inhabitants.

Be sure to also check out the featured dragonfly art!

Nature Nook exhibits are designed for all ages.

Join us for a Family Nature Walk!   SEE THE SCHEDULE