The Nature Center’s property is ideally suited for a quick getaway. Located five miles from downtown Cedar Rapids, the Nature Center is easily accessible and provides a number of different experiences that can be customized for your group.
Adult Programming
To learn more about available options and to schedule, please contact us.
Cancellation Policy
Our programming takes place in all seasons, and are not cancelled due to weather. The exception is if we close due to weather. If you cancel your program less than 14 days in advance, a $25 cancellation fee will be charged. For cancellations less than 48 hours in advance, an additional $25 administration fee will be charged. This includes all reasons other than dangerous weather or other severe circumstances such as school closure. An attempt to reschedule canceled programs will be made pending availability.
Payment Policy
Groups have the option to pay in-person via cash, credit card or check. We request that all groups use one form of payment. If you prefer, an electronic invoice will be sent to the group coordinator or billing contact after the program.
Payment may be sent via check to Indian Creek Nature Center Attn: Registrar, 5300 Otis Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403. If you wish to pay by credit card, please call 319-362-0664 during business hours.
Programs
The Nature Center offers programming for all ages! Nature Center programs are an ideal enrichment activity that can be tailored to your group’s desires. Handicapped and bus drop-off are ideally located near the education center with a hard surface walkway leading to the building. A short amount of time will be spent outdoors and close to our building when the weather is conducive. If this is not desirable for your group, please let us know ahead of time.
Note: Please notify our registrar if special accommodations need to be made for any individuals.
Cost: $5/participant (minimum fee of $50)
Length: 1 hour
Capacity: We are able to accommodate up to 30 participants per program session. For larger groups, please inquire about booking multiple sessions.
Discover and remember the diversity of wildlife in Iowa. See and touch artifacts from a variety of animals – birds, insects, mammals and more – and meet a live animal (optional). Season(s) Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter.
Discuss Iowa’s variety of birds. Listen to bird songs and calls. Look at bird feathers and artifacts. Try your hand at bird watching. Season(s) Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter.
What makes reptiles and amphibians similar and different? We’ll tell (and show!) you all about it. Meet some live reptiles and amphibians, too! Season(s) Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter.
Get an up-close look at butterflies and other insects. Learn all about these small but mighty critters. You’ll have the chance to visit to our butterfly hoop house. Season(s) Offered: Summer, Early Fall (through September).
Gather at one of our wetlands to witness the sounds and sights of these magical places. Talk with us about accessibility for those with mobility impairments. Season(s) Offered: Spring, Summer, Early Fall (through mid-October).
Learn about the history of this unique North American heritage activity, and explore the Native American and pioneer history of ‘sugaring.’ You’ll learn about maple syrup as the first agricultural crop harvested in Iowa each year and identification of maple trees. Then, visit the sugar bush (woods where the maple trees grow) and use tools (bit & brace, hammer, spile and collection bag) to tap a maple tree. You’ll also tour the sugarhouse to learn how sap is boiled to create maple syrup, followed by a sample of the maple syrup made right here at Indian Creek Nature Center. This program meets at Penningroth Barn (6665 Otis Road SE) and can be adjusted so participants remain on hard surfaces throughout the program.