Westwood Hills Nature Center

Westwood Hills Nature Center offers 63 acres of outdoor exploration perfect for getting kids connected with nature right in the heart of St. Louis Park. With miles of easy hiking trails, live animal exhibits, hands-on nature displays, and excellent educational programming, it's an ideal spot for families to spend a morning or afternoon discovering local wildlife and ecosystems without venturing far from the Twin Cities metro.

• ✓Interactive nature exhibits featuring live local animals including turtles, snakes, and amphibians
• ✓Well-maintained hiking trails ranging from easy paved paths to woodland trails perfect for little explorers
• ✓Wildlife viewing areas with opportunities to spot deer, birds, frogs, and other native Minnesota creatures
• ✓Hands-on discovery room where kids can touch pelts, bones, and natural artifacts
• ✓Seasonal nature programs including guided hikes, storytime, and family workshops

1. 1.Arrive early on weekends to enjoy the trails before they get busy and to catch animals at their most active in the morning hours
2. 2.Stop inside the Nature Center building first to grab a trail map and ask staff about recent wildlife sightings,they're incredibly knowledgeable and can point you to the best spots
3. 3.Bring binoculars and a nature journal for kids to document their discoveries; the center has several observation areas perfect for bird watching
4. 4.Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes as trails can be muddy in spring and after rain, but the boardwalks make most areas accessible year-round
5. 5.Check their website for special family programs and drop-in activities before visiting,they often have crafts, guided hikes, and animal encounters included with admission

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather and active wildlife viewing, with birds migrating and animals preparing for seasonal changes. Weekday mornings tend to be quietest, while Sunday afternoons are popular with families. Early morning visits (right when they open) provide the best wildlife spotting opportunities.

Admission is FREE, making this an excellent budget-friendly option for families. Parking is available on-site. There's no food service, so bring snacks and water bottles, especially for longer trail explorations.

The center is open year-round with trails accessible in all seasons. Winter offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities (bring your own equipment). Spring is ideal for spotting baby animals and wildflowers, while fall features beautiful foliage. Summer programs often include special outdoor camps and activities. Note the slightly extended Sunday hours (until 5 PM) for weekend family visits.

Park Tavern (about 2 miles away) offers a great kids' menu with classic favorites in a casual atmosphere, or head to Davanni's Pizza & Hot Hoagies on Excelsior Blvd for quick, kid-approved Italian fare perfect for refueling after your nature adventure.