January 10, 2022
Select a Wildlife Sanctuary
BNC trails are open; restrooms available; Nature Center closed—click for more info. Read More
Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
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Located just outside of downtown Boston on the former grounds of the Boston State Hospital, the Boston Nature Center is a community-based urban sanctuary. Trails and boardwalks traverse meadows and wetlands, home to over 150 species of birds, 40 species of butterflies, and more than 350 species of plants. Year-round programs help foster an appreciation for nature and the environment. Please leave dogs and other pets at home.
Location: 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan, MA 02126
Phone: 617-983-8500
Hours: Trails open daily, dawn to dusk • Restrooms open Mon-Fri 9am–5pm, Sat & Sun 10am–4pm
Winter Activities
Nature's Winter Wonders
Learn about winter animals, take a nature walk, or explore by snowshoe! Browse programs >
Online Programs - LP promo for sanctuaries
Online Programs
Fox Sparrow
Explore nature with us online, from winter birds to wildlife tracking. Coming up next >
Healing Landscape
A Healing Landscape
Discover the stories of the people who have lived and worked on our land for 200+ years. Read it >
Nature Preschool (text only)
Nature Preschool
At BNC, our Pathways to Nature preschool provides a high-quality nature program for children ages 3–6. Learn more >
Sanctuary News & Events
Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
BNC has embarked on an ambitious commitment to become carbon neutral by 2022, thanks in large part to crucial $100,000 commitments from both public and private supporters.
Upcoming Programs
Join us as we learn why all snowflakes are unique and discover how the properties of snow help animals survive in the winter.... Read more
Sip cider and stare at the stars. Read more
Learn how to track animals in the wild while exploring our trails. Read more
