Get outside this summer with our staff on a family friendly educational hike! On this sunrise hike, learn about our unique collection plants, Sonoran Desert ecology, and meet our resident Sonoran Desert Tortoises. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, sun protective clothing, and bring plenty of water. Sign up for this free hike at the...
Did you know Arizona actually has five seasons? The thunderstorms of Tucson’s monsoon have the power to transform the Sonoran Desert during Arizona’s fifth season: the wet summer! Monsoon Magic is a mini-nature exhibit where you’ll learn about the wildlife and meteorology of the southwest’s summer rains. Come anytime between 7-9 a.m.! Follow signs for...
The San Pedro River is one of the last free flowing rivers in the Southwest and home to one of the largest cottonwood-willow riparian forests remaining in Arizona. On this walk we will discuss the interactions between the living and nonliving components that make up this unique riparian ecosystem and its importance to the surrounding...
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...
Join us to walk around Liberty Wildlife during our public open hours and see us fulfilling our mission! In the months of May, June, July and September, we are open from 9am until 11am. Our admission is simply donation based - whatever you feel you can give. There are no set programs, but volunteers are...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...
See live examples of aquatic life up-close with Ranger Eric. Learn about and see the aquatic life of this desert oasis at this discovery station with Ranger Eric. We will look at aquatic organisms from samples taken from the river and Palm Lake with the naked eye and under microscopes in the Visitor Center. ...
Enjoy koi fish feeding in the Conservatory every morning as aquatic experts share their knowledge about this unique and beautiful species. Meet “Hoover”, and the important role he plays in the pond that takes center stage at Butterfly Wonderland’s Conservatory! FREE WITH ADMISSION
Discover how Cotton, Cattle, Copper, Citrus, and Climate have shaped Arizona through hands-on crafts, live demonstrations, and fun activities for all ages. No registration required—just come ready to explore and have fun!
Learn about Grand Canyon's natural world on a one hour guided walk on a paved pathway along the canyon rim. Topics vary and may include: animals and plants adapting to changing seasons, man's impact on nature, how nature inspires writers and poets, rare and endangered species, or Indigenous people's use of plants and animals. Program duration:...
Stop by the Nature Center to learn about and meet San Tan’s animal ambassadors with Ranger Nikki during this drop-in session. Ranger Nikki will introduce you to San Tan’s animal ambassadors, including snakes, tortoises, a chuckwalla and a Gila monster. Learn about their life cycles, adaptations and what you should do if you encounter their...
Join a ranger in our visitor center exhibit area to learn about a rotating selection of topics around the Sonoran Desert and Saguaro National Park. Drop in any time from 1pm-1:30pm. Accessible program.
Experience the fascinating world of marine life during an engaging Aquarist Talk and Live Feeding in the Tropical Waters gallery. Listen to expert insights regarding the venomous round stingrays as well as Agatha, the remarkable horn shark, at the Observation Pool. This interactive presentation offers a deeper understanding of these incredible creatures, along with a...
Creep, crawl, and get curious! Join one a Butterfly Wonderland expert “bug specialist” for a close-up look at some of the world’s most incredible insects—like walking sticks, blue death-feigning beetles, katydids, and more. It’s buggy, fascinating, and totally FREE with admission.
This is not about the University of Arizona’s teams nor is it about your mom’s house cat! Join an Interpretive Ranger in the theater to learn about the four types of wild cats that roam not only Arizona’s mountains and deserts, but in some cases – our cities and towns! Wheelchair accessible.
Join Ranger Nikki on an easy 2-mile stroll to search for scorpions and other nocturnal critters. Ranger Nikki will lead you on an out-and-back walk to search for bark, striped-tail and giant hairy scorpions. We will also be on the lookout for other nocturnal critters such as bats, owls, tarantulas, kangaroo rats, stink bugs and...