September 14, 2021
Select a Wildlife Sanctuary
BNC will be CLOSED to the public on September 16 & 17—click for more info. Read More
Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
|
|
|
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
Nature Play Days - LP promo for sanctuaries
Nature Play Days
Find seasonal nature play ideas & activities to help everyone get outside! Time for fun >
Online Programs - LP promo for sanctuaries
Online Programs
Eastern Pondhawk © Kim Nagy
Explore the nature of summer online, from beautiful insects to amazing birds. 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
By collaborating with local hunger relief organizations, we're getting our farm-grown, delicious produce to local families in need. We're 98% of the way to our $50,000 goal—help us get there by donating today!
Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
Boston magazine's annual Best of Boston® feature has honored the Boston Nature Center for "Best Kids' Classes" in their 2021 awards!
Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
BNC partnered with Target and the Arbor Day Foundation during April to celebrate Earth Day by planting 106 native trees. Thanks to our 80 hard-working volunteers!
Upcoming Programs
Join a BNC Teacher Naturalist every Thursday to explore, learn and play. Use your senses to explore the natural world! This pr... Read more
Join a BNC Teacher Naturalist every Friday to explore, learn and play. Each Friday, we will learn about the animals that walk... Read more
The effects of climate change are already being felt in Boston. This program will look at the how and why of climate change, w... Read more
