August 9, 2022
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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 • Nature Center open Monday-Friday 9am–5pm, Saturday, Sunday, & most holidays 10am–4pm
Spring Activities
Nature's Spring Wonders
Learn about spring animals, take a nature walk, or explore changing habitats! Browse programs >
Online Programs - Promo for All Sancs
Online Programs
© Eduardo del Solar
Explore nature with us online, from summer night sounds to annual migrations. 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
Special Event Thursdays, July 14-August 18
Teens and preteens will explore connections within the ecosystem and their community.
Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
Special Event September 24, 2022
Bring the family to this free annual festival celebrating all things raptor! Get up close with live animals, enjoy lots of nature activities, laugh along with kid-friendly entertainment, and much more.
Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
Over the past 21 years, the Boston Nature Center has grown to be a vibrant community nature center under Julie Brandlen’s leadership. Below are some of the milestones that highlight our shared journey towards building a community of belonging.
Upcoming Programs
Drop in at the Boston Nature Center Saturday mornings from June to August and learn all about honey bees from the Boston Area Beekeepers! Read more
Drop in at the Boston Nature Center Saturday mornings from June to August and learn all about honey bees from the Boston Area Beekeepers! Read more
Discover the colorful world of butterflies Read more
