Blandford Nature Center is offering free admission for the entire month of November after the overwhelmingly positive response received from the community during Admission Free April earlier this year. This month of free admission from November 1st—November 30th will allow thousands of people from across West Michigan to explore nature at no cost again, but this time, in a new season. During Admission Free November, visitors of all ages are invited to explore the scenic fall trails and enjoy complimentary programming at Blandford Nature Center located at 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504.
Blandford’s trails and grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk and the Mary Jane Dockeray Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday from 9 am- 5 pm. Visitors will have access to 264 acres of forests, meadows, and wetlands, 8 miles of trails including 1 mile of ADA accessible trails, 2 outdoor playscapes, the Children’s Garden, and more—all free of charge.
The opportunity to explore the outdoors for free this season is thanks to a generous donation from Amway. “Amway is thrilled to partner with Blandford Nature Center to offer free access to our community this November,” said Lindsey Tilley, Amway Supervisor of Corporate Social Responsibility. “Being active and spending time in nature supports our mission of helping people live better, healthier lives, and Blandford offers a wonderful space to connect with our natural surroundings. We hope to see you there!”
In addition to free access to the trails and grounds, Blandford will be offering a variety of free activities and programs throughout the month. “November can be a difficult time to connect with nature or spend time outdoors, we want to encourage everyone to get outside and enjoy the season with these free program opportunities and activities,” said Camilla Voelker, Community Programs Manager at Blandford Nature Center. “There’s a variety of offerings for differing ages and interests, so we’re looking forward to seeing a lot of our community outdoors this month.”
Animal-enthusiasts can visit over 40 rehabilitated Wildlife Ambassadors or check out the Blandford Farm animals, those interested in history can tour Blandford’s Historical Village on select dates in November, and the youngest visitors can enjoy touchable artifact tables. Free programming and event opportunities include Storytimes with the Animals, Trail Walking Groups, Composting Workshops with Wormies Vermicompost, Blandford’s annual Fall Nature Makers Market, and more. Free and paid program opportunities are color-coded and labeled on Blandford’s Community Calendar. The
Community Calendar, more information about the trails and grounds, and FAQs can all be found at: www.blandfordnaturecenter.org
