RAGTAG PLACES: Mystic - Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center

The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center in Mystic is a small, but fun natural history museum and wildlife sanctuary. The birds of prey exhibit is our favorite, you'll always hear a chorus of "oohs" and "ahhs" coming from the hawk and owl enclosures. Not only will your kids learn something, but they'll get exercise out on the 8 miles of walking and hiking trails. The Nature Center is also part of the Mystic Community Bikes program. All you need is your ID and a $10 refundable deposit and you have a free bike to explore Mystic for the day.

RAGTAG ANNIE likes: "That owl makes funny sounds!"

Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center 

109 Pequotsepos Road

Mystic, CT 06355

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Nature Center:

• Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under or seniors 65 and over. Don't forget to check your local library for discounts/free tickets to the Nature Center!
• The museum portion of the Nature Center is located on the top floor (at the entrance) and the bottom floor of the building.
• There's a small standing-room only theater on the bottom floor where you can experience a "Night in the Meadow." The room is pitch black and they play the sounds and sights of the meadow. Just beware, smaller kids may be too scared to watch the entire show because of the dark and/or loud noises.
• A large classroom located on the bottom floor is usually open to the public and features stuffed animals as well as a few caged birds of prey.
• Outdoors there are more birds of prey in flight enclosures.
• There are 8 miles of hiking trails, but a quick walk around the pond is usually enough for those with young families.
• Also on the property is a small enclosed butterfly garden and a wildflower garden with comical wood sculptures (see above picture).
• Various programs and classes for all ages are available in the Nature Center's educational facility. Day camp is also available in the summer. 
• Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center runs a Nature Preschool for ages 3-5. You may notice that the walking path near the tree house is blocked while school is in session.

Conveniences:

• The distribution center for the Mystic Community Bike program is located at the entrance. Call for bike availability and don't forget to bring your ID and $10 to rent the bike for free. For more information, visit http://www.mysticcommunitybikes.org/.
• Parking for the Nature Center is free.
• Bathrooms are located on the bottom floor next to the children's classrooms.
• A tree house with seating is located near the flight enclosures and provides a great place to have a snack/lunch.
• Picnic tables and benches are available.
• A gift shop is available near the entrance of the building.
• Credit Cards are accepted

Things to Remember:

• Because the Nature Center is not very big, you can see and experience everything in under an hour. If you're hoping to make it a longer visit, plan to take a hike or have a picnic lunch.
• Check your local library for discounts/free tickets.
• If you purchase tickets and later decide to buy a membership, bring the receipt and the money you've already paid will go towards your yearly membership. 
• Bring lunch. It's a great place to have a picnic.
• Kids are likely to get dirty when playing outside, so dress them comfortably!
• Fun place to bring out-of town guests.