Upcoming Events

Welcome to VINS

The VINS Nature Center is open daily from 10am – 4pm.

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 4 PM Daily

Wild Bird Rehab
802.359.5000 x212
8 AM to 4 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

NH Day – $10 Admission

MARCH 16 – NH RESIDENTS – Get up close with majestic birds, wander through the enchanting Songbird Aviary, climb and play in the Adventure Playscape, trek our scenic Nature Trails, and don’t miss the breathtaking Forest Canopy Walk. Discover the fascinating world of birds in our Birds Are Dinosaurs exhibit, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Forest Exhibit, and come face-to-face with incredible creatures in the Reptile Room.

Read More about NH Day – $10 Admission

Beginning Watercolor Workshop

MARCH 22 – This class will explore the fundamentals of watercolor using raptors as models. Artist and VINS educator, Kelly Gadouas, has been painting with watercolor for over 25 years and will share tips and tricks for using this medium.  This class will introduce several watercolor techniques including wash, wet brush, and dry brush to help students produce realistic-looking paintings and develop a color palette inspired by the beauty of nature.

Read More about Beginning Watercolor Workshop

Amphibian Adventure

MARCH 22 – Why did the salamander cross the road? Join a VINS educator to find out on an amphibian adventure! Learn what makes amphibians such amazing animals by playing games to see if you can hop as far as a frog or if you can find your way to a vernal pool.

Read More about Amphibian Adventure
Forest Canopy Walk

Forest Canopy Walk