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Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center

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Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center

Brookside

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4750 Troost Ave.
Kansas City, MO 64161
816-759-7300

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Science & Nature Museum
Park
Nature Center

Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center Description

The eco-friendly design of "The Discovery Center," as it's known locally, is the first subtle lesson presented by this natural oasis, located a short walk from the Plaza. The focus of the center is hands-on conservation, particularly for children in urban environments lacking ample exposure to the natural world. Families are free to visit and explore the center's classrooms, themed nature paths, and exhibits on display, including a replica of a Lewis and Clark keel boat near an exhibit about the Corps of Discovery led by the legendary American explorers.

Kid Tips

Babies: The center is accessible enough to permit bringing a babe-in-arms or in a carrier, though strollers are allowed.

Toddlers & Pre-K: Kids will love searching for butterflies in the outdoor butterfly garden; afternoon visitors can look for hummingbirds at the feeders in the nearby hummingbird exhibit.

School-Age Kids: If you visit during the week, pop into one of the classrooms (themed on topics like rivers and taxidermy) and encourage your kids to ask the instructors questions about the role each theme plays in the environment.

Planning Notes

Saturday workshops. The Discovery Center offers workshops on Saturdays where kids can learn about sustainable gardening or create nature-themed works of art.
Walk the trails. The back door to the Discovery Center leads to a series of paths, each designed for a specific purpose (like attracting hummingbirds or demonstrating how to grow woodland forest trees in your own backyard).
Green design. Pick up a brochure about the elements of the eco-friendly design at the center to learn how the building was designed to exist in harmony with the natural world.
Special events. Check the Web site calendar for a listing of special events, like ladybug-themed workshops or special "Fiddles and Forests" concerts.

Just the Facts

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; the first and third Tues. of each month until 7 p.m. Also open the first and third Sat. of each month 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Fees: Free

Recommended Time: 1 - 2 hours