Cincinnati Nature Center
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Cincinnati Nature Center is an amazing place to get away, be in tune with nature, hike many different trails and cross streams of water. The visitor center has lots of educational displays, a room for reading and bird watching, meeting rooms for events, and a beautiful store with some amazing items. One of my favorites is the Maple Syrup that is tapped from the trees on the grounds. CNC has lots of special programming for kids, families and adults. One of my recent favorite events was Maple Fest. It includes many tastes of maple from beer, to sugar, and other maple-infused appetizers. We took a hike out to see the maple tree tapping and got to taste from the spigot before the liquid went into the waiting buckets. They also included bourbon tastings which was a nice touch. Wonderfully fun event in the woods! Great place to visit during all seasons of the year.
Beautiful trails you always feel safe. Dogs are welcome. So many programs and events Light in the Forest is outstanding. The staff is welcoming and friendly and knowledgeable.
I have been a member here for over 15 years. I am not a hiker, but I LOVE walking in nature. Especially with my husband and dog(s). I've taken my 4 dogs (that were mine) here, plus others I've cared for, over the years and they all get something out of it. My current beagle boy, Henry, gets the most out of it because he didn't get much fun with his previous owner. My husband likes the plant sale. I like their gift shop, even though I don't get many chances to go in and purchase from them.
Always outstanding - I mean, it's nature! But as a facility, it's pretty great. Well tended and documented trails, nice visitor center and places for classes (haven't tried one yet). Great little shop inside. It's popular, so you will see others on the trails, but not so many that you forget you are wandering around in the forest, communing with nature. Plenty of parking. Definitely get the season pass if you are local and if you are not, take a hike through the forest. It's with it.
WOW!! I have been trying to hit some of the major parks in Cincinnati, as I have made hiking one of my goals in 2023. The entire time I was in this park, I kept questioning that I was actually in Milford. I have been driving 40 to 45 minutes to find nice woods to hike through and have landed at various metro parks north of Cincinnati (huge fan of Ceasar Creek State Park, Sugarcreek, Germantown... but the common denominator is that all of these parks are a long drive from Loveland). Enter Cincinnati Nature Center: only 23 minutes via 275 and right in the heart of Milford/Tealtown area. On my first time visiting this park since I was a kid, I decided to hike the perimeter. It's about 10 miles and does a big circle through the various acres of the park. It does hit lots of the trails that are marked within the nature center limits, but I definitely had to download the AllTrails app to figure out my way in navigating the perimeter (it was easier, although I was handed a hard copy map at the welcome center too). Unlike the metro parks, the perimeter trail is not marked by a certain color. It picks up all of the other trails that are already marked and combines them together to make about a 10 mile loop. The only thing that I did not get to was the 3 miles across the street from the nature center. This trail allows you to cross Tealtown Road and wind around a 3 mile pass across the street. With that mileage, an entire perimeter walk would be about 13 miles--in MILFORD. It was a cold winter day, as you can see in the pictures. Lots of brown, but the blue sky and sun helped, for sure. I loved the creek crossings and the marsh area. They even had a neat area called the 'boneyard' with information about different animals. I also loved anything with the wooden path elevated above the water. Those major viewpoints were within the first 2 miles around the nature center. You don't have to go too far to catch those highlights--and it's worth not missing!! I really contemplated wearing my gym shoes versus my hiking boots, as sometimes my boots can feel heavy with a 10+ mile hike. I am so glad I opted for the hiking boots, as it was muddy! I have a feeling some of those trails stay pretty muddy, as there were rocks significantly placed in some areas to help navigate the mud. Good news/Bad news: you have to pay $10 to enter the park. I definitely think it is entirely worth the $10. A single membership for the entire year is $45. You have to pay about $70 if you want to bring a guest or the guest would have to just pay $10 to enter. I really do think they use that money to maintain the trails, as I felt like the park was very clean and well-kept. I definitely think it would be worth a year-long membership for $45. If you think you would at least go 4 to 5 times within the year, it's worth it. I would really enjoy seeing this park throughout the various seasons--I'm sure it looks entirely different with green on those trees!! Highly recommend getting out to explore this park!
Loved seeing another side of the nature center at the Groesbeck Estate for a friend's wedding. So lovely to be in nature and see another cool hidden gem in Cincinnati! Staff was incredible and helpful and roads were easy to navigate
Yes, yes, YES!!! I was blown away by my recent first visit here and it's currently pinned as my favorite place in Cincinnati. I can't wait to go back, I'll make a point to go back, and if I lived here I would one hundred percent be a member. Lucky for me, I came with a friend that happens to have one of their annual memberships. At roughly $75 a year, he gets endless visits AND can bring a friend. To get the basic, boring stuff out of the way I'll go ahead and tell you that it is gated, there is plenty of parking, the place is HUGE, there's beautiful venues hidden throughout, and there's a crap ton of signage, so you can't get lost. Now, on to the good stuff... Did I mention how big this place is yet? There were so many different trails, so many small bodies of water, so many spots to just stop and admire, and SO MANY turtles. I can't remember which trail was my favorite but I can definitely describe it to you. There was a waterfall, the trail went up and down a lot, and there was a brand new bridge built. It reminded me most of being fully immersed in the wilderness while the others felt a little more crafted. Again, so many freakin turtles. It was hilarious. I loved the amount of wildlife I saw. The little bird sanctuary type spot was adorable. I don't know what it is but as I've gotten older I really do like watching birds! I saw a giant blue bird, plenty of cardinals, and little finches. Tons of squirrels and frogs too.
I'm not only a member of the park but I have been coming there the past several years. It was a place that brought me peace. Whenever I was having a bad day or feeling a little down, I would come there and leave feeling as though I didn't have a care in the world until... September 17th, wanting to have such a day as fore mentioned, I'm waiting in line behind 2 vehicles to enter. I notice that they 2 are members because they displayed their membership and the gentleman at the window scanned them. It's now my turn so I hold out my membership and he proceeds to take it instead of just scanning it the same as he did the 2 earlier vehicles. He then asked for my ID. At that moment, I felt as those I shouldn't have a membership. I felt degraded, embarrassed, angry, confused, deflated and any hope of me trying to have a peaceful day was gone just in that moment. I proceeded to find a parking spot and feeling somewhat defeated. I walk inside to the visitor center wanting to explain what just happened to me. There was a young lady that I spoke with and she somewhat dismissed what I was trying to explain by stating.. "Yes we ask for ID of all members" as to which I replied "That's not true" "I just witnessed 2 white people show their memberships, then being scanned and gaining entry without showing their ID's". Her reply, what's your name? I gave her my name then stated "I wouldn't expect you to understand". I can assure you that I will never come there or any other park you may have! I will spend as much time necessary to tell all of my friends and family about my experience. I will discourage any and everyone I know from coming there. As a police officer I would never make anyone I come in contact with feel the way I felt today. I don't expect anyone reading this to understand or have any sympathy for how something like this effects me as a Black Woman. I truly thought I was a part of something to brag about, be proud to be a member of and be excited to share my experiences there with my friends and family. I am truly saddened and now ashamed. As stated above I don't expect anyone to understand or care. I simply wanted to let someone know that today, I was reminded of what it's like to be ME!
Soooooo many people have recommended their hiking trails to me (which I will have to come back during warmer months to experience) and I have been wanting to visit, so when a friend of mine told me about their "Light in the Forest" event, I was totally down for it. They had a really great path that not only led you through their trails to see some of the artists that displayed their light work, but they had indoor stopping zones where you could warm back up and do a little holiday shopping : ) . Each light display was very unique and a couple of my favorites were the twinkling forest and the light up box on the lake. The twinkling lights looked like they were being projected from somewhere that you could not see and covered a good number of trees that it seemed very magical! The luminary box that I can only describe as looking like a very large nightlight floating on the lake would change colors and reflect against the water. For any holiday activity, this is definitely one that you should check out. : )
I obtained passes for here through a Living social deal which was a great way to try it out! Normal admission per person is $9 (Summer 2019) with a $2 dog fee. If you decide to become a member you have 14 days to apply that day fee towards the price of membership. The best deal is the yearly pass for $40 (individual) and they have various other packages that increase from there for multiple people and families. A friend and I came around 2pm on a gorgeous summer Friday afternoon. We had brought separate cars thinking admission was taken at the visitor center, however it is obtained at a guard shack at the entrance when each car pulls up. The lady at the entrance was nice enough to let me show both passes and let both our cars through. It was a very easy transaction (not all living social or groupon deals are!). We parked in the lot closest to the visitor center so we could go in and get maps and look around. The visitor center is really nice and includes some wildlife, an info desk, and a really impressive gift shop! At the entrance there are walking sticks to borrow and boot brushes to get any mud off shoes. There are bathrooms and water fountains inside and outside. If you've brought your dog, they are not allowed inside. All of the staff here were super nice and had great suggestions. We exited out the back door at which there was another boot wipe station and a machine where you could pay for food to feed fish/frogs etc. We first took the geology trail upon recommendation of staff as a nicely shaded but moderate hike. Trails were very well maintained with signage that at times was a bit confusing. As a newbie having the map as well was necessary. There are lots of water features from a lake to ponds to a creek/river. This trail had various sets of stairs of wood or stone that were in good condition. At multiple points along the trail there were lookouts or benches for resting. Rules ask that you do not go off trail, nor pick flowers or take fossils. After completing that trail we joined up with the upland trail and mashburn trail which had lots of sights to see. There was a lodge with a very nice terrace featuring a fountain, a butterfly garden, a cabin with rocking chairs on its porch, a lotus pond, and many solar panels. There are a lot of educational things here geared for kids that are also fun. Pet waste stations and trash stations are available at various points. Signage indicated many free or for a fee special events that are put on. The next upcoming event is an Owl and Beer night! I most likely will join here. There is so much more to explore and in a few hours I was only able to get a small taste of it all!
Didn't know we had to pay to enter, but they take credit card so that worked out. The person working the gate was very friendly and provided tips on trails and a map for us. The visitor center was open and the restrooms were available for use. We started on the butterfly trail, which was easy, and ventured onto the fern trail from there. The fern trail was listed as difficult, but if you hike often I would consider it more of a moderate trail. It was slippery in spots from the wet leaves, but the elevation was completely doable. We had a deer following us for awhile and it was quite beautiful out. We passed several people and everyone was good about putting their masks on. This is a great way to get some outdoor time in and remain socially distant. So glad we came upon it!
My husband and I came here for the first time to attend the Light in the Forest event. If you want to go next year, buy your tix early because they sell out! You are taking a chance buying ahead because of the unknown weather, but I just looked at the forecast, took a chance, and we had a great time! Parking was easy peasy because of all the great, friendly volunteers showing you the way! The CNC also put on a COVID friendly event. Everyone wore masks and the trail was one-way. The paths were festively lit and the projected light images were beautiful! We also enjoyed the Charlie Harper exhibit they were having in a room next to the Nature Shop, in addition to displays of artwork by local artists. Overall, a great evening! It was child and stroller friendly too!
A little pricy to get in. Pricing is per person. Once you get in the scenery is amazing! I choose to come here based on a beautiful photo I saw on Instagram. I don't think this will be a normal spot but I'd love to make it out once or twice a yr starting now!
This place is such a gem. It has something here for everyone. The trails are beautiful and range from easy to more moderate, so whether you want a relaxing walk or a bit of a challenge, you can find it here. It is one of those places that reminds you not to underestimate Ohio's natural beauty. There are hiking challenges too you can sign up for prizes. There is a really cute nature themed playground that is perfect for kids. This place also makes an amazing venue for events. You can rent spaces for parties or weddings, which is my dream venue. The welcome center is one of my favorite parts. They have live animals that are very well cared for, including rehabilitated raptors, which is so cool to see up close. There is also a large gift shop, a cozy lounging area, and coffee from Coffee Emporium available to buy. It is a great place to relax and take everything in, especially if you enjoy birdwatching. They also host seasonal events, and their Christmas lights event is one of my favorites. It really brings the whole place to life in a special way. The staff here are consistently kind, welcoming, and genuinely happy to talk with you. They are always willing to answer questions and make the experience even better. Overall, this is such a peaceful, educational, and well maintained place. Definitely somewhere you can keep coming back to and still enjoy every time. read more
We enjoy going to Cincinnati Nature Center's "Light in the Forest" every holiday season. Getting outside and taking a walk on a chilly evening is a nice departure from all the indoor events we go to this season of the year. It's a well-lit, easy one mile walk through the woods. There are stops along the way: several bonfires, a gift shop, live music, interactive light displays, and a historic home you can walk through. It's $20 per adult and $8 per child, with a small savings for members. We'd love to go back during the summer months, perhaps for another one of their many events. read more
1 year ago
Cincinnati Nature Center is an amazing place to get away, be in tune with nature, hike many different trails and cross streams of water. The visitor center has lots of educational displays, a room for reading and bird watching, meeting rooms for events, and a beautiful store with some amazing items. One of my favorites is the Maple Syrup that is tapped from the trees on the grounds. CNC has lots of special programming for kids, families and adults. One of my recent favorite events was Maple Fest. It includes many tastes of maple from beer, to sugar, and other maple-infused appetizers. We took a hike out to see the maple tree tapping and got to taste from the spigot before the liquid went into the waiting buckets. They also included bourbon tastings which was a nice touch. Wonderfully fun event in the woods! Great place to visit during all seasons of the year. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
I have been a member here for over 15 years. I am not a hiker, but I LOVE walking in nature. Especially with my husband and dog(s). I've taken my 4 dogs (that were mine) here, plus others I've cared for, over the years and they all get something out of it. My current beagle boy, Henry, gets the most out of it because he didn't get much fun with his previous owner. My husband likes the plant sale. I like their gift shop, even though I don't get many chances to go in and purchase from them. read more
Always outstanding - I mean, it's nature! But as a facility, it's pretty great. Well tended and documented trails, nice visitor center and places for classes (haven't tried one yet). Great little shop inside. It's popular, so you will see others on the trails, but not so many that you forget you are wandering around in the forest, communing with nature. Plenty of parking. Definitely get the season pass if you are local and if you are not, take a hike through the forest. It's with it. read more
WOW!! I have been trying to hit some of the major parks in Cincinnati, as I have made hiking one of my goals in 2023. The entire time I was in this park, I kept questioning that I was actually in Milford. I have been driving 40 to 45 minutes to find nice woods to hike through and have landed at various metro parks north of Cincinnati (huge fan of Ceasar Creek State Park, Sugarcreek, Germantown... but the common denominator is that all of these parks are a long drive from Loveland). Enter Cincinnati Nature Center: only 23 minutes via 275 and right in the heart of Milford/Tealtown area. On my first time visiting this park since I was a kid, I decided to hike the perimeter. It's about 10 miles and does a big circle through the various acres of the park. It does hit lots of the trails that are marked within the nature center limits, but I definitely had to download the AllTrails app to figure out my way in navigating the perimeter (it was easier, although I was handed a hard copy map at the welcome center too). Unlike the metro parks, the perimeter trail is not marked by a certain color. It picks up all of the other trails that are already marked and combines them together to make about a 10 mile loop. The only thing that I did not get to was the 3 miles across the street from the nature center. This trail allows you to cross Tealtown Road and wind around a 3 mile pass across the street. With that mileage, an entire perimeter walk would be about 13 miles--in MILFORD. It was a cold winter day, as you can see in the pictures. Lots of brown, but the blue sky and sun helped, for sure. I loved the creek crossings and the marsh area. They even had a neat area called the 'boneyard' with information about different animals. I also loved anything with the wooden path elevated above the water. Those major viewpoints were within the first 2 miles around the nature center. You don't have to go too far to catch those highlights--and it's worth not missing!! I really contemplated wearing my gym shoes versus my hiking boots, as sometimes my boots can feel heavy with a 10+ mile hike. I am so glad I opted for the hiking boots, as it was muddy! I have a feeling some of those trails stay pretty muddy, as there were rocks significantly placed in some areas to help navigate the mud. Good news/Bad news: you have to pay $10 to enter the park. I definitely think it is entirely worth the $10. A single membership for the entire year is $45. You have to pay about $70 if you want to bring a guest or the guest would have to just pay $10 to enter. I really do think they use that money to maintain the trails, as I felt like the park was very clean and well-kept. I definitely think it would be worth a year-long membership for $45. If you think you would at least go 4 to 5 times within the year, it's worth it. I would really enjoy seeing this park throughout the various seasons--I'm sure it looks entirely different with green on those trees!! Highly recommend getting out to explore this park! read more
2 years ago
Loved seeing another side of the nature center at the Groesbeck Estate for a friend's wedding. So lovely to be in nature and see another cool hidden gem in Cincinnati! Staff was incredible and helpful and roads were easy to navigate read more
Yes, yes, YES!!! I was blown away by my recent first visit here and it's currently pinned as my favorite place in Cincinnati. I can't wait to go back, I'll make a point to go back, and if I lived here I would one hundred percent be a member. Lucky for me, I came with a friend that happens to have one of their annual memberships. At roughly $75 a year, he gets endless visits AND can bring a friend. To get the basic, boring stuff out of the way I'll go ahead and tell you that it is gated, there is plenty of parking, the place is HUGE, there's beautiful venues hidden throughout, and there's a crap ton of signage, so you can't get lost. Now, on to the good stuff... Did I mention how big this place is yet? There were so many different trails, so many small bodies of water, so many spots to just stop and admire, and SO MANY turtles. I can't remember which trail was my favorite but I can definitely describe it to you. There was a waterfall, the trail went up and down a lot, and there was a brand new bridge built. It reminded me most of being fully immersed in the wilderness while the others felt a little more crafted. Again, so many freakin turtles. It was hilarious. I loved the amount of wildlife I saw. The little bird sanctuary type spot was adorable. I don't know what it is but as I've gotten older I really do like watching birds! I saw a giant blue bird, plenty of cardinals, and little finches. Tons of squirrels and frogs too. read more
3 years ago
I'm not only a member of the park but I have been coming there the past several years. It was a place that brought me peace. Whenever I was having a bad day or feeling a little down, I would come there and leave feeling as though I didn't have a care in the world until... September 17th, wanting to have such a day as fore mentioned, I'm waiting in line behind 2 vehicles to enter. I notice that they 2 are members because they displayed their membership and the gentleman at the window scanned them. It's now my turn so I hold out my membership and he proceeds to take it instead of just scanning it the same as he did the 2 earlier vehicles. He then asked for my ID. At that moment, I felt as those I shouldn't have a membership. I felt degraded, embarrassed, angry, confused, deflated and any hope of me trying to have a peaceful day was gone just in that moment. I proceeded to find a parking spot and feeling somewhat defeated. I walk inside to the visitor center wanting to explain what just happened to me. There was a young lady that I spoke with and she somewhat dismissed what I was trying to explain by stating.. "Yes we ask for ID of all members" as to which I replied "That's not true" "I just witnessed 2 white people show their memberships, then being scanned and gaining entry without showing their ID's". Her reply, what's your name? I gave her my name then stated "I wouldn't expect you to understand". I can assure you that I will never come there or any other park you may have! I will spend as much time necessary to tell all of my friends and family about my experience. I will discourage any and everyone I know from coming there. As a police officer I would never make anyone I come in contact with feel the way I felt today. I don't expect anyone reading this to understand or have any sympathy for how something like this effects me as a Black Woman. I truly thought I was a part of something to brag about, be proud to be a member of and be excited to share my experiences there with my friends and family. I am truly saddened and now ashamed. As stated above I don't expect anyone to understand or care. I simply wanted to let someone know that today, I was reminded of what it's like to be ME! read more
Soooooo many people have recommended their hiking trails to me (which I will have to come back during warmer months to experience) and I have been wanting to visit, so when a friend of mine told me about their "Light in the Forest" event, I was totally down for it. They had a really great path that not only led you through their trails to see some of the artists that displayed their light work, but they had indoor stopping zones where you could warm back up and do a little holiday shopping : ) . Each light display was very unique and a couple of my favorites were the twinkling forest and the light up box on the lake. The twinkling lights looked like they were being projected from somewhere that you could not see and covered a good number of trees that it seemed very magical! The luminary box that I can only describe as looking like a very large nightlight floating on the lake would change colors and reflect against the water. For any holiday activity, this is definitely one that you should check out. : ) read more
7 years ago
I obtained passes for here through a Living social deal which was a great way to try it out! Normal admission per person is $9 (Summer 2019) with a $2 dog fee. If you decide to become a member you have 14 days to apply that day fee towards the price of membership. The best deal is the yearly pass for $40 (individual) and they have various other packages that increase from there for multiple people and families. A friend and I came around 2pm on a gorgeous summer Friday afternoon. We had brought separate cars thinking admission was taken at the visitor center, however it is obtained at a guard shack at the entrance when each car pulls up. The lady at the entrance was nice enough to let me show both passes and let both our cars through. It was a very easy transaction (not all living social or groupon deals are!). We parked in the lot closest to the visitor center so we could go in and get maps and look around. The visitor center is really nice and includes some wildlife, an info desk, and a really impressive gift shop! At the entrance there are walking sticks to borrow and boot brushes to get any mud off shoes. There are bathrooms and water fountains inside and outside. If you've brought your dog, they are not allowed inside. All of the staff here were super nice and had great suggestions. We exited out the back door at which there was another boot wipe station and a machine where you could pay for food to feed fish/frogs etc. We first took the geology trail upon recommendation of staff as a nicely shaded but moderate hike. Trails were very well maintained with signage that at times was a bit confusing. As a newbie having the map as well was necessary. There are lots of water features from a lake to ponds to a creek/river. This trail had various sets of stairs of wood or stone that were in good condition. At multiple points along the trail there were lookouts or benches for resting. Rules ask that you do not go off trail, nor pick flowers or take fossils. After completing that trail we joined up with the upland trail and mashburn trail which had lots of sights to see. There was a lodge with a very nice terrace featuring a fountain, a butterfly garden, a cabin with rocking chairs on its porch, a lotus pond, and many solar panels. There are a lot of educational things here geared for kids that are also fun. Pet waste stations and trash stations are available at various points. Signage indicated many free or for a fee special events that are put on. The next upcoming event is an Owl and Beer night! I most likely will join here. There is so much more to explore and in a few hours I was only able to get a small taste of it all! read more
Didn't know we had to pay to enter, but they take credit card so that worked out. The person working the gate was very friendly and provided tips on trails and a map for us. The visitor center was open and the restrooms were available for use. We started on the butterfly trail, which was easy, and ventured onto the fern trail from there. The fern trail was listed as difficult, but if you hike often I would consider it more of a moderate trail. It was slippery in spots from the wet leaves, but the elevation was completely doable. We had a deer following us for awhile and it was quite beautiful out. We passed several people and everyone was good about putting their masks on. This is a great way to get some outdoor time in and remain socially distant. So glad we came upon it! read more
My husband and I came here for the first time to attend the Light in the Forest event. If you want to go next year, buy your tix early because they sell out! You are taking a chance buying ahead because of the unknown weather, but I just looked at the forecast, took a chance, and we had a great time! Parking was easy peasy because of all the great, friendly volunteers showing you the way! The CNC also put on a COVID friendly event. Everyone wore masks and the trail was one-way. The paths were festively lit and the projected light images were beautiful! We also enjoyed the Charlie Harper exhibit they were having in a room next to the Nature Shop, in addition to displays of artwork by local artists. Overall, a great evening! It was child and stroller friendly too! read more
8 years ago
A little pricy to get in. Pricing is per person. Once you get in the scenery is amazing! I choose to come here based on a beautiful photo I saw on Instagram. I don't think this will be a normal spot but I'd love to make it out once or twice a yr starting now! read more
There is a reason that the Cincinnati Nature Center has a perfect 5-star rating. It is awesome. With everything going on in the world this weekend, I needed an escape. I had recently purchased a membership to the Cincinnati Nature Center (I believe it was $64 for the year and allows me to bring a guest each time) but had not visited the main park yet. The trails are meticulously well-kept and well-marked. I really loved the benches that were placed throughout the trails, they always overlooked something truly beautiful. You couldn't help but sit and admire the beauty of the park. During COVID-19, visitors must be members and must reserve time-slots for their visits. You could tell that the park was not overcrowded. We also opted to get as deep into the trails as possible to avoid others. I didn't look too hard at it, but there also seemed to be a pretty robust play area for children (though currently closed during COVID). Truly, Cincinnati Nature Center is a gem. This was the best purchase I've made all year. read more
The Cincinnati Nature Center is such a gem and well-worth the membership, or a stop by at least once or twice a year! I had initially learned of the Center while searching for wedding venues, but hadn't really checked out many of the trails. While the Krippendorf Lodge is beautiful, getting into the belly of trails revealed much more! I had no idea of how extensive of a place this was, and was amazed by how well-kept everything was and attention to detail in regards to safety, especially with COVID-19 measures in place. The space wasn't overcrowded and was a perfect outlet to visit when other things were shut down. There's also plenty of space to hammock and chill out. I really enjoyed the space as many of the trails are heavily wooded and you aren't baking in the summer heat. I love this little sanctuary and can't wait to come back and bring others to experience! I am definitely looking forward to being able to sit in the bird blind and take in the birds chowing down on some food. read more
5 years ago
I love taking my kids here for short hikes. The trails are easy to follow and clear. The classes offered are amazing. We have been maple syrup collecting and elderberry syrup making. Buy a membership. It is worth it. Weekends are busy, but if you can go during the week, it is much less crowded. They have long hours during the summer (maybe 7am-8?). I will not be renewing my zoo membership because I like the nature center much better. read more
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit at the Cincinnati Nature Center. A friend and I explored a few of the trails. Some trails are more of a workout than others. The visitor center is more than happy to help with trail recomendations. Make sure to grab a map while you are there. While the trails are marked, some areas are not as clearly marked as others. Several map return areas are available. Being a nature center, they are conservation minded. So much to explore. Various educational stops are on the Mashburn Family Discovery Trail. If you have children who are hands on learners, make sure to borrow a net from the visitor center, and stop by Matt's pond. We saw small fish, frogs, dragonflies... the list goes on. What a great way to learn about nature, and how to handle it respectfully. Capture and release is allowed in this particular pond. Throughout the nature center are signs alerting patrons of the paricular rules of the area. The Geology Trail was another interesting trail. Varying topography, with several places where hikers cross a creek. We did spot a few shell fossils in the river rocks. I wasn't 100% sure if we were on the Mashburn Family Discovery Trail or the Upland Trail when we came across the butterfly garden. We did see a few butterflies. Milkweed is planted. Hopefully more butterflies will abound. Due to the cost of admission, part of me was considering moving my review down to four stars. At $9 per adult, $4 for children ages 4-12, and $2 per dog, their price for admission is a bit high. (Admission paid at the front gate.) Yearly memberships are available, with dogs being no additional charge for members. Then again, the money does seem to be going right back into the experience. The grounds are very well kept. For the amount of miles the center covers, it is quite impressive how clean and well maintained the parts we visited are. The employees we encountered were kind, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about assisting guests. Various programs for adults and children are available throughout the year. Volunteering at the nature center for 20+ hours equals a free membership. It does cost more money to maintain the center at this level. read more
4 years ago
The experience is in the name: Nature, this is where you come to get away from the hustle and bustle of your day! Not only do you get back to nature but the trails are a great way to get your steps and exercise in! They offer by several trails with different difficulty levels based on your level of fitness. They also offer classes for both adults and kids as well as guest speakers and "how to" seminars. Finally the twice a year Hots and Hoops events are a must combining nature, education, great food and local breweries! read more
6 years ago
I have been coming here many years. Its a great place 2 bring the kids. We love the Play area 4 the children. read more
Love this place. It's a home away from home to me!! A piece of Heaven! So thankful I found this place!! So many trails to trek!! You may have up-close encounters with wildlife as I have many times! They offer many programs and events for young to old!! Needless to say I'll be a longstanding member at Cincinnati Nature Center!! read more
6 years ago
6 years ago
My husband and I bought a yearly pass to the CNC, and we are loving it! We've have taken our kids twice now, and everything has been well maintained and beautiful. I can't wait to hike some of the more difficult trails. I would definitely recommend the Cincinnati Nature Center, for anyone that enjoys the outdoors! read more
3 years ago
In the 90's, this spot was open to everyone M-F but it was "Members Only" on the weekends. I took photography classes and enjoyed hot chocolate with groups of people who loved nature and enjoyed it together. In this "new pandemic era", I am happy to report that it hasn't changed. Cincinnati Nature Center hasn't changed but it seems that I have changed and I am not sure it's for the better. I wore my mask and tried to remain physically distanced.....but connecting with people in the Center seems to be more difficult. They are wearing their masks and they aren't sure how to help you. The lady at the booth was happy to hear that I had been there before but she laughed when I told her my son and I saw a snake and it had been 10 years ago! She made a point to hand me my change and a receipt. KEEEP THAT RECEIPT. Over the next 14 days, I can join at a reduced rate and my $9 admission fee can be deducted from the cost of a membership. I loved her care and interest in my saftey. She reminded me that the snakes are just starting to come back (it's the right time of year, for them!) but I wish she'd told me what I later learned about masks. Keep them handy because the signs tell you to pull them up when you encounter others on the trails. Some people, mostly couples were walking without them but there were many people They are generally walking alone like me, who stopped and even avoided me until I either turned away from them or "masked-up" to pass. Neither of them ever revealed to be walking with their mask "handy". I felt rather conscious that everyone was handling this pandemic differently and the "Rules of the CNC" were being followed as people choose to follow them. I still love this park and highly recommend it. I will probably become a "member" again. It's a pristine place with deeply rooted respect for nature. But the visitors are as divided as our country. Be prepared. I feel for the volunteers and staff members who seek to help you. They may need someone to encourage them. They seem afraid to verbalize any helpful information. Give them some "love". It's as if they are unsure. They may be more comfortable with the animals. They protect this place but they have to do so from a distance. Wave and smile? I don't know how you can "love on them". Maybe go and make a big donation? Or pay the admission and shop in the gift shop? I don't know but be kind to them and each other. The geese are unmasked and so are the turtles. The chipmunks aren't wearing masks. They seem almost glad to see us. They hide from you but I know they are watching us. Smile when you can and pick up after yourself. Show the park gratitude. It's looking great and so are the animals. Support it and the people running it, please. It deserves our grateful presence. read more
6 years ago
6 years ago
4 years ago
4 years ago
8 years ago
This place has been my new home. I come to relax, spend hours walking through the beautiful trails, or to sit by the small creek to just let time pass by. If you are in need of an escape, get in your car and drive straight to the nature center. You will not regret it. Trails, playgrounds, a information center, water, etc. It's got it all. Some feel that the entry fee is a deterrent, but I see it as necessary. I have no issue helping pay for something so beautiful and relaxing. The center also has events throughout the year. I have not been able to go, but I get monthly emails detailing everything coming up for the month. I can't want to try one out! Please, do yourself a favor, and get to the nature center ASAP! read more
6 years ago
Absolutely beautiful and well priced! Tons of trails, wildlife, and picture moments! Love to hike here! read more
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