Join Us For Exciting Spring Events!

Welcome to VINS

The VINS Nature Center is open daily from 10am – 5pm.

All outdoor exhibits are open: Raptors, Songbird Aviary, Adventure Playscape, Nature Trails, and the amazing Forest Canopy Walk. Our indoor exhibits are open: Birds Are Dinosaurs, Forest Exhibit, and Reptile Room.

We highly recommend prepurchasing your admission tickets. We welcome all walk-ins.

Contact Us

Nature Center Hours

VINS Nature Center
10 AM to 5 PM Daily

Wild Bird Rehab
802.359.5000 x212
8 AM to 4:30 PM Daily

"My daughter and I enjoyed our visit yesterday very much. You continue to do outstanding work to preserve the natural world and educate people about your mission. I was very inspired by all that I saw and experienced. I wanted to share a photo of the volunteer that inspired me with her kindness, wealth of knowledge, and expertise in the care and handling of the amazing birds currently on site."

VINS Nature Center Visitor

"VINS (Vermont Institute of Natural Science) is a fantastic destination for nature lovers, featuring scenic trails, interactive exhibits, and incredible up-close encounters with birds of prey. The live raptor programs are both educational and engaging, offering insight into wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. The beautiful setting, hands-on learning experiences, and well-maintained facilities make it a perfect spot for families, hikers, and anyone passionate about nature. Whether exploring the nature trails or watching majestic eagles and owls, VINS offers an unforgettable experience that inspires a deeper appreciation for wildlife."

VINS Nature Center Visitor

"Fun place to go to and take your kids, close encounters with some of the most iconic birds - bald and golden eagles, snow owls etc., canopy trail is really cool."

VINS Nature Center Visitor

"Wonderful place for a day trip! Educational and amazing! Great staff that are helpful and very knowledgeable."

VINS Nature Center Visitor

"Awesome place to visit! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and the birds are beautiful. The new treetop walk offers spectacular views of the surrounding pond, and the tall tower is a little scary! Come prepared to wear a mask and follow the safety guidelines set by the institute. Staff is very dedicated to making your visit a safe one!"

VINS Nature Center Visitor

Wildlife Ambassador Photo Contest

MAY 18 – JUNE 12 – Calling all wildlife photographers! Showcase your stunning Ambassador Animal photos in our annual Wildlife Ambassador Photo Contest. Your winning image could be featured in the VINS Ambassador Adopt Calendar and help inspire conservation efforts across our community. Selected photographers will receive a FREE calendar featuring their work, while retaining copyright to their images. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to share your wildlife photography passion!

Read More about Wildlife Ambassador Photo Contest

Lens on the Wild: Photography Workshop

MAY 18 – Designed for the beginner to intermediate level photographer, Photojournalist Rob Strong will be on hand to review camera functions and settings and assist participants in applying techniques to get the most out of their camera, maximizing results and improving wildlife photography skills. NEW this year – submit your best workshop photo to our Wildlife Ambassador Photo Contest!

Read More about Lens on the Wild: Photography Workshop

Dinosaur Discoveries

MAY 24 – Join a VINS educator as we explore dinosaur discoveries! Meet some of T. Rex’s great great grandchildren, and get a chance to touch a living fossil in a program featuring VINS live animal ambassadors. Next brush up on your paleontology skills and join a scavenger hunt for dinosaur bones.

Read More about Dinosaur Discoveries
Forest Canopy Walk

Forest Canopy Walk