Eastman Nature Center 050

Note: Eastman Nature Center closes May 2, 2011 for demolition and rebuilding, with a new, improved structure set to reopen at the site in mid-2012.

Eastman Nature Center, part of the Three Rivers Park District and situated on the Elm Creek Park Reserve, has much to offer families year-round, inside and out.

Indoors, this 6,800-square-foot nature center features interactive exhibits and games; a glass-sided beehive; classrooms; and live turtles, snakes, frogs, toads, and salamanders. Outdoors, it offers four miles of hiking trails through forests, fields, and alongside creeks; a boardwalk across a pond; self-guided trails; an observation blind; restored prairie lands; a small amphitheater; an orienteering course; and garden beds.

Eastman's trails connect to Elm Creek's 19 miles of paved trails, and miles of cross-country and snowshoe trails.

Parties: Celebrants can rent a room at Eastman for a party, or book a two-hour naturalist-led Wild Birthday Party for ages four and up. The first hour includes a presentation and hike, the second is for treats and gift opening in a private room. Cost: $80 for up to 15 children and six adults.

Classes: Eastman offers a wide array of programming and special events for preschoolers, school-age kids, and families. Check the website for complete and current listings.

Summer Camps: Eastman's offerings are part of Three Rivers' Adventure Week day camp program for ages four to 18.