March 2, 2023
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Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
Located just outside of downtown Boston, on the former grounds of the Boston State Hospital, the Boston Nature Center (BNC) 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.
Location: 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan, MA 02126
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am–5pm • Saturdays, Sundays, & most holidays, 10am–4pm
Trails: Daily, dawn to dusk
Boston Local Composting
Learn About Composting
Learn about the best practices in Boston-local composting with this four-session program. Save your spot >
Fall in Love with Nature
Fall in Love with Winter
Take a morning bird walk, learn about tree identification, or try some outdoor winter art at the BNC. Browse programs >
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
This report outlines BNC’s deep community engagement work as we continue our commitment to fostering a Sanctuary of Belonging where all are welcome.
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.
Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
Five months ago, Mass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center (BNC) in Mattapan broke ground on an ambitious project to become carbon neutral by 2022. So, it is especially fitting that on Earth Day Friday, April 22, members of the BNC community, supporters, civic leaders, and Mass Audubon staff gathered at the 67-acre wildlife sanctuary for a ribbon-cutting to officially announce it has achieved net-zero energy status.
Upcoming Programs
Join us to observe resident birds and spring migrants in a unique urban habitat that is a favorite stomping ground for many bird species. Read more
This four-module training series is designed to help you learn about the impact of food waste on the environment and its connection to climate change. Read more
Observe animal signs, listen for bird calls, and smell new flowers while exploring the Boston Nature Center. Read more
