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.
"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!"
APRIL 2 – Join an Educator for our early learner’s storytime sessions. We’ll read stories, play games, sing songs, and laugh with puppets. Each session will focus on a different topic to learn about animals, plants, or other wonders of nature. This experience is designed to help promote connection, exploration, curiosity, and joy for the outdoors. (For ages 5 and younger).
APRIL 4 – 10: Colorful eggs have mysteriously appeared all around VINS — and we need your help finding them! This week only, join our center-wide scavenger hunt.
APRIL 10 – Owls are charismatic nighttime birds that have captured the hearts and attention of so many. But whoo are they really? Get an insider look at these nocturnal raptors from the perspective of the educators that work alongside our VINS Ambassadors. We’ll dive into what makes owls unique, revealing a surprising side of these birds no one usually talks about.