Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
- Mattapan
- 67 Acres
Plan Your Visit
A community nature center and wildlife sanctuary with trails that traverse meadows, woods, and wetlands; home to over 150 species of birds, 40 species of butterflies, and more than 350 species of plants.
Hours
Nature Center
- Monday–Friday
- 9:00 am–5:00 pm
- Saturday, Sunday, & Most Holidays
- 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Trails
- Daily
- dawn to dusk
- 2 miles
- 1 mile
Admissions
- All Ages free
Contact
500 Walk Hill Street
Mattapan, MA 02126
Connect with Boston Nature Center
Property Regulations
- Foot travel only; please stay on trails (day passes are available for powered mobility devices)
- Dog walking and horseback riding are prohibited; please leave all animals and pets at home (service animals welcome)
- Camping, collecting, smoking, hunting, fishing, releasing of animals, and feeding wildlife is prohibited.
- Commercial photography needs prior approval; please see all photography guidelines.
Facilities
Latest News
More News10 Unforgettable Fall Hikes in Massachusetts
Learn MoreMass Audubon Receives $318,000 Grant to Build New Greenhouse at the Farm at Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary
Learn MoreMass Audubon Celebrates Pride Month at Boston Nature Center June 3 and at Other Wildlife Sanctuaries Statewide in June
Learn MoreUpcoming Programs
See moreRockin' with Raptors Festival
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Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Mattapan
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Saturday, September 30
12:00-3:00pm
Adults & Families - 0 & up
Introduction to Bird Photography
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Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Mattapan
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Saturday, October 7
9:00am-12:00pm
Adults
Urban Foraging: DIY Candles and Herbal Oils
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Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Mattapan
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Saturday, October 7
10:30am-12:00pm
Adults
Sanctuary History
This land was once occupied by the Boston State Hospital. But how did it get here, and what was here before that?
Conservation Projects
BNC is involved with a variety of projects that relate to fighting climate change, providing healthy food, and creating equitable access to nature.
Stay Connected with Boston Nature Center
Don’t miss a beat on all the ways you can get outdoors, celebrate nature, and get involved.