Private Experience





Private Experience at VINS
Choose from Falcon, Owl, Hawk, Snake, or Turtle.
Or select Educator's Choice and we will surprise you!
Choose from Falcon, Owl, Hawk, Snake, or Turtle.
Or select Educator's Choice and we will surprise you!
Choose from Falcon, Owl, Hawk, Snake, or Turtle.
Choose from Bird Enclosures or the Forest Canopy Walk.
Choose from Forest, Meadow or Riparian habitat.
Or, select Educator’s Choice and we will surprise you!
Choose from Gorge Hike or VINS Nature Trails
*Available during the summer (June - August).
Program Packages
What is your favorite bird or reptile at VINS? What burning questions do you have? Eager to become more closely connected to the natural world around you? This Private Experience is an unforgettable opportunity! Meet a highly qualified VINS Educator who will be your guide and provide you with a personalized experience full of lasting memories.
During Animal Encounters, you will encounter a live falcon, owl, hawk, snake, or turtle. Discover the natural history, ecology, and adaptations of your animal of choice while conversing with a highly qualified VINS Environmental Educator. Add a private tour of the Bird Enclosures or the Forest Canopy Walk or enjoy explorations of local habiatats during a Guided Hike or Habitat Investigations. This will be a personalized experience based on your interests.
Animal Encounters & Private Tours
You will encounter a live falcon, hawk, turtle, or snake. Discover the natural history, ecology, and adaptations of your animal of choice while conversing with a highly qualified VINS Environmental Educator. Add a private tour of the Bird Enclosures or the Forest Canopy Walk, This will be a personalized experience based on your interests.
Habitat Investigations
You will explore one of the diverse habitats on the VINS campus with sweep nets, magnifying glasses, soil corers and identification guides. Learn about the animals that call these habitats home and touch some animal artifacts for a rich, hands-on experience. A perfect family-friendly experience!
Takes place rain or shine. If there are thunderstorms, we will substitute an Educator's Choice Animal Encounter.
Available during the summer (June - August).
Guided Hikes
Join us for an amazing opportunity to hike with a VINS Educator along the VINS Nature Trails or down into the Quechee Gorge. Delve into the natural history of the area, learn to identify common plants and animals, or uncover the geological history of this region as you descend into the gorge. With a naturalist at your side, there is so much to discover!
Takes place rain or shine. If there are thunderstorms, we will substitute an Educator's Choice Animal Encounter and Private Tour.
Please note that the Gorge Hike is best suited for families with children ages 8 and up, and includes moderately steep and rocky terrain.
Available during the summer (June - August).
Reservations Required. Private Experiences must be booked at least 48-hours in advance to ensure adequate staffing for your experience.
For In-Person Private Experiences, general admission to the VINS Nature Center is due on the day of your experience. This allows full access to the Nature Center for the day.
Maximum of 6 total participants per Private Experience.