Nature-lovers gift guide — ideas for giving this holiday season

The holidays are here again! And that means it’s gift giving season. If you’re still on the hunt for something for the nature lover in your life, we have some ideas for you: 

Give them an experience to remember.

There’s always something going on at the Nature Center. Check out our public program calendar for all of our upcoming programs and events. For kids, we recommend registration to the Fresh Air Academy (the next session begins Jan. 4) or Creek Camps (get a gift certificate for later this summer!). For adults, perhaps a Master Gardener Workshop or our virtual Backyard Chicken Certification Course

Treat them to a night out at the Nature Center. 

Grab tickets to a showing of the Backcountry Film Festival on Jan. 28 or 29. The first showing will be at Big Grove Brewery’s taproom in Iowa City. The second will be at the Nature Center. Looking for something more active? Gift a registration to an upcoming Full Moon Night Hike under the starlit sky. 

Give them something to last a lifetime.

A Nature Center membership is a meaningful gift that will benefit your loved one all year long. Or, if you opt to give them a lifetime membership, their entire life! Lifetime membership is a one-time cost of $1000 to ICNC’s endowment, which supports the Nature Center for the long term. Learn more about the perks of being a lifetime member here

Make it meaningful: give on their behalf.

Speaking of gifts that last a lifetime… did you know that you can purchase benches or trees in someone’s honor? If you’re interested in purchasing a memorial gift, email nancy@indiancreeknaturecenter.org You can also donate in someone’s name, or make a monthly commitment to make them an ICNC Sustainer. Some folks have everything they already need. Donating in their name is a great way to support the causes they love.

Give them what they really want.

One way to ensure they get what they want is by purchasing a gift card. Gift cards may be used for any purpose at Indian Creek Nature Center, including purchases in the Creekside Shop, new or renewed membership, donations, program registration, event tickets, or rental fees.

How about something handmade?

In the Creekside Shop we have a number of handmade items, including jewelry, hats, hiking poles, ornaments and more. Many of the items in the shop are also sustainably made and locally sourced. Check out all we have to offer during open hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10 AM-4 PM. 

Give them something to snack on.

Nature-lover and foodie on your list? Check out our organic farm-fresh eggs, handcrafted honey and maple syrup. Give the ingredients raw or turn them into a tasty homemade treat! Here are some ideas:
Maple Candy
Honey Baklava
Maple Custard Cups

The best gift of all? Time together.

Gifts don’t have to be material or mean more if they cost money. Often, the best gift you can give is that of your time. And one of the best places to enjoy time together is out in nature! Get your daily dose of time outside with your loved ones by hiking our trails, exploring our exhibits, or volunteering together. 

From all of us here at the Nature Center, we wish you the happiest holidays and a wonderful new year! The Nature Center will be closed Dec. 23, 24, 25 & 31, as well as Jan. 1. As always, our trails remain open daily dawn ‘til dusk.
gift guide, giving, happy holidays, holiday season, holidays
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