The VINS Nature Center is open daily from 10am – 5pm.
All outdoor exhibits are open: Raptors, Songbird Aviary, Adventure Playscape, Nature Trails, and the amazing Forest Canopy Walk. Our indoor exhibits are open: Birds Are Dinosaurs, Forest Exhibit, and Reptile Room.
"My daughter and I enjoyed our visit yesterday very much. You continue to do outstanding work to preserve the natural world and educate people about your mission. I was very inspired by all that I saw and experienced. I wanted to share a photo of the volunteer that inspired me with her kindness, wealth of knowledge, and expertise in the care and handling of the amazing birds currently on site."
VINS Nature Center Visitor
"VINS (Vermont Institute of Natural Science) is a fantastic destination for nature lovers, featuring scenic trails, interactive exhibits, and incredible up-close encounters with birds of prey. The live raptor programs are both educational and engaging, offering insight into wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. The beautiful setting, hands-on learning experiences, and well-maintained facilities make it a perfect spot for families, hikers, and anyone passionate about nature. Whether exploring the nature trails or watching majestic eagles and owls, VINS offers an unforgettable experience that inspires a deeper appreciation for wildlife."
VINS Nature Center Visitor
"Fun place to go to and take your kids, close encounters with some of the most iconic birds - bald and golden eagles, snow owls etc., canopy trail is really cool."
VINS Nature Center Visitor
"Wonderful place for a day trip! Educational and amazing! Great staff that are helpful and very knowledgeable."
VINS Nature Center Visitor
"Awesome place to visit! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and the birds are beautiful. The new treetop walk offers spectacular views of the surrounding pond, and the tall tower is a little scary! Come prepared to wear a mask and follow the safety guidelines set by the institute. Staff is very dedicated to making your visit a safe one!"
OCTOBER 17 – NOVEMBER 9 – The VINS annual auction will raise funds to support our work across the entire organization: our environmental education programs, research, and wildlife rehabilitation efforts. Our goal is $18,000. Your participation in the auction helps us reach thousands of children, educators, adult learners and bird patients each year. Whether you’re looking for something special for yourself or a loved one, this is a wonderful way to support VINS and local businesses this holiday season.
OCTOBER 19 – Join us for an essential conversation about one of today’s most challenging parenting topics: social media, phone use, and creating healthy digital boundaries for our children. Dr. Bill Hudenko will ground us in the science: what we know about how young brains respond to phone use and evidence-based insights on healthy technology boundaries for families.
OCTOBER 21 – Greet the day high among the treetops on the VINS Canopy Walk at this free, adults-only cultivation series. Before our opening hours, sip coffee and savor fresh pastries as the morning sun lights up the Ottauquechee River and the first colors of autumn. Enjoy conversation with our Executive Director and staff in a peaceful forest setting.