Cure Cabin Fever With A Day Trip To The Vermont Institute Of Natural Science
Jan 22, 2015 05:22PM ● By Victoria Pipas
The most exciting activities at VINS feature birds. During winter as well as summer months, you can attend live raptor shows where you will learn about the anatomy and habits that make these birds unique. Trainers educate and entertain, with programs designed especially for younger members of the audience. On weekends, you can attend a tour of the raptor enclosures to take a closer look at the birds’ habitats in the wild and in captivity. As you learn the stories of the birds that are in permanent residence because of injuries, you will become more conscious of your own impact on the wildlife around you. You can also participate in feeding time, and see what turtles, small amphibians, and a wide range of birds enjoy for dinner.
Great indoor activities can also be found at VINS, where children can release some pent-up energy. They will enjoy the Nature Nook, where they can learn about amphibians and reptiles in wetland habitats. Or they can visit the Crawl Space to act like an animal, play in the puppet theater, make nature-themed crafts, or read an educational book. If you and your children fall in love with all that VINS has to offer, you can even organize a birthday party here. All these activities are great ways for children to continue to learn, exercise, and engage in nature, even when the weather outside is frightful. Adults, too, will delight in VINS during the winter. Make reservations for February 6th’s Winter Wine and Dine event, an evening with an educational winter snowshoe trek followed by a three-course dinner at the Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm. This is a winter adventure not to be missed!
While at VINS, be sure to check out the charming Nature Store, which features everything from nutritious Vermont granola bars to birdhouses and interactive toys such as kites and science kits. Also in keeping with winter, enjoy the watercolor paintings of Jeanette Fournier. Her art is being exhibited in the VINS Nature Center through March 31st. Jeanette’s beautiful, intricate paintings are inspired by the mountainous landscapes of New Hampshire and Vermont and composed with an Audubon-like attention to detail and observation of nature. Her work brings the beauty of the forest indoors for all to enjoy.
The excitement of VINS can’t be expressed on a page; you have to go and experience it for yourself. Visit the website for a complete list of hours, admission prices, and special events.
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