Forest Bathing – 7/25/26

Forest Bathing (also known as Shinrin-Yoku) is not a hike, fitness walk, or naturalist-led program – instead, it is a unique opportunity to slow down, awaken your senses, and connect with the natural world in nourishing and meaningful ways. Through a series of gentle invitations by an ANFT Certified guide, you’ll have the chance to deepen your relationship with the land and its inhabitants, as well as share in that experience with others.

In addition to feeling more grounded, calm, and peaceful, when practiced regularly, Forest Bathing has been shown to support overall well-being, including reduced stress, lower blood pressure, improved sleep, enhanced creativity and focus, and even a decrease in anxiety and depression.  Many people also find that they begin to experience familiar parks and forests in new, surprising, and deeply personal ways.

Introduction to Nature Journaling – 7/25/26

Learn to mindfully experience nature with journaling  no artistic ability required! We’ll guide you through how to connect and look closely to the world around us. This program is perfect for anyone who wants to relax, de-stress, and appreciate the beauty around them.

Build-a-Zoo – 7/25/26

Become the zoo director, and design your dream zoo! Learn about animal habitats, enrichment, and conservation as you use your creativity to build habitats with recycled materials.

Discovery Garden Exploration Time

Registration is required!

Explore summer in the Discovery Garden! Enjoy hands-on activities led by our garden docents outside. Learn about native Illinois ecosystems and have fun playing in the garden!

Jun:  Pollinators

Jul:  Water Play

Aug:  In the Dirt

 

 

 

Rocket to the Moon! – 7/18/26

Celebrate the anniversary of the Apollo mission by building your own rocket!

July 20th is the 56th anniversary of the moon landing, and we're celebrating by launching our own rockets! Join us as we design and decorate our own Apollo 11's and use water pressure to make them hit the skies.