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OPEN TODAY: 10AM-4:30PM Last Admission @ 3:30

Events & Experiences

The WNC Nature Center offers a variety of programs, events, and experiences all year round! Reserve spaces and learn more about our offerings below.

Featured Programs & Events

Attendees learning at an educational event at the nature center

Custom Experiences

Enjoy a customized education experience with an educator, as well as a guided private tour around the Nature Center to discuss the ecology of our native wildlife species and the unique stories of how they came to the Nature Center.

Request A Private Tour

Buy A Private Tour Gift
Gray fox during a junior wild walk event

Wild Walks & Junior Wild Walks

Monthly events for children and adults to go behind the scenes to see the Nature Center like never before! Learn how our keepers feed and care for the animals, see an animal enrichment session, and ask our staff your questions!

See Event Calendar
Wolf at the WNC nature center

Wolf Howl

Learn about the red and gray wolves of North America, then visit their habitats after dark!

Programs for both adults and children occur in the fall. Tickets go on sale in September.

See Event Calendar
Wolf at night at the nature center

Night at the Nature Center

Learn about nocturnal species that live in the region, then visit them after the sun sets!

Programs for children and families occur in the spring. Tickets go on sale in January.

See Event Calendar
Painting with animasl event

Painting with the Animals

Our animals paint for enrichment, and now you can too! Sign the whole family up for a step-by-step instruction painting of one of our animals!

Events occur in early spring and in the fall.

See Event Calendar
Critter checkup even

Holiday Critter Check Up

Your child can bring their favorite stuffed animal to the Nature Center for a check up with our volunteer veterinarian and vet assistants!

Event occurs in December. Tickets go on sale in November.

See Event Calendar

Parties & Rentals

Wolf at a birthday celebration

Birthday Parties

Have your child’s next birthday party at the Nature Center!

Your reservation includes a two-hour room rental and admission to the Nature Center for up to 20 invitees.

Reserve Your Party
Classroom rental event

Classroom Rentals

The Education Center at the WNC Nature Center has two classrooms that can accommodate small groups.

Rentals include a smart TV, podium, chairs, tables, lobby space, and can include access to the wildlife park for an additional fee.

Request Info
People attending a private event at the WNC Nature Center

Private Events

Host your next corporate event or family gathering at the WNC Nature Center!

The WNC Nature Center can accommodate a private after-hours event or a reserved space inside the wildlife park during regular open hours.

Request Info

Signature Fundraisers

Wolf at a birthday celebration

Heart of the Wild Luncheon

Occurs annually in March

Join the Friends of the WNC Nature Center as it honors a individual or group who reflects the spirit of philanthropy and whose wild generosity has helped shape the future of the WNC Nature Center.

Learn More
Classroom rental event

Brews & Bears Summer Event Series

OCCURS SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH FROM MAY TO SEPTEMBER

Walk the wildlife park after hours with a beer, cider, or wine in hand. Enjoy food trucks, live music, and animal education programs.

Learn More