8 Best Nature Centers in Utah!
One of America’s most naturally beautiful states, Utah residents are keen on celebrating not only the beauty of Utah’s landscape but also its preservation. The following 8 nature centers are efforts in the state to involve the community in the beauty of Utah’s natural heritage.
Ogden Nature Center, Ogden, UT
With 152 acres to its name, Ogden Nature Center is a nature preserve and education center in Northern Utah. Founded in 1975 as Utah’s first nature center, the Ogden Nature Center attracts more than 27,000 children, teachers, and adults for its field classes aimed at facilitating appreciation and increased stewardship of the environment.
Great Salt Lake Nature Center at Farmington Bay, Farmington, UT
One of the best places for bird watching in Utah, the Great Salt Lake Nature Center at Farmington Bay sees millions of migratory birds and shorebirds every year.
Tracy Aviary, Salt Lake City, UT
Although perhaps not your traditional nature center by definition, the Tracy Aviary in Salt Lake City is definitely its own kind of nature center and a very popular one at that. See a variety of native and exotic birds and learn about how to best preserve their natural environments.
Kennecott Nature Center, Murray, UT
Mostly used as an educational resource for the children of the Murray and Granite School Districts in Salt Lake City, the center is not usually open to the public. That said, you can reserve the center for environmental education purposes.
Stokes Nature Center, Logan, UT
Made possible through the generous donations of Allen and Alice Stokes, the Logan Nature Center’s mission is “to promote exploration, provide education, and foster appreciation and stewardship of our natural world for people of all ages.” With regular programs such as the “Owl Prowl” and live music, the center also offers workshops and the opportunity to feed hummingbirds.
Ashton Gardens at Thanksgiving Point, Lehi, UT
A bit more manicured than Utah’s other nature centers, Ashton Gardens at Thanksgiving Point are a beautiful sight for the eyes. Incredibly well-maintained and popular for families and couples alike, Ashton Gardens are especially beautiful come Spring with an incredible display of tulips.
Sun River Gardens, Orem, UT
Technically a “garden center” where you can buy supplies for your own garden, Sun River Gardens is also a community hub wherein you can take classes and enjoy the plants without buying anything!
Red Butte Garden, Salt Lake City, UT
The University of Utah’s very own botanical gardens, Red Butte Garden is open year-round and offers different activities and events to the community during each season.
