The 200-acre nature sanctuary is home to many different plant and animal species that can be explored by visitors through six miles of trails. The sanctuary has wetlands, meadow, woodlands, ponds, and farm land. The sanctuary serves to provide an academic experience for visitors to learn more about all the different kinds of environments in the area.
The Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm is located in Dayton near Englewood and in the middle of a big forest. Prior to entering the center's grounds, I drove across a big suspension bridge and got a take a look at the trees and surrounding locations. It was gorgeous. The center looks like an old farm home which it initially was, prior to its redesigning a couple of years back. Inside you will find exhibitions about the habitat and animals of the premises, a nature shop, three classrooms, and a big meeting room. It is a little hokey but the belief grows on you as you walk through the space. I had a little time to stroll the trails and even though it was cold the kids did a little creeking in search of early salamanders. No luck. I took the trail to the farm and saw a few cows but very little else was going on this time of year. Admission is simply a couple of dollars and worth it. The center staff is really well-informed and uses classes in nature study.We went to the yearly pancake breakfast which also features a hike out to tap some maple trees for syrup. Excellent clean fun.
Aullwood Audubon Nature Center and Farm is open year around but closed on school holidays. Parking is free at both the farm and nature center. If driving, the distance between both destinations is about 5 minutes; nevertheless, the nature sanctuary trails end at the farm and a lot of visitors delight in walking between places to be able to delight in the entire experience of Aullwood Audubon Nature Center and Farm. The whole center is nonsmoking and strictly imposed.
Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm
1000 Aullwood Rd, Dayton, OH 45414
VPFG+92 Dayton, Jefferson Township, OH
(937) 890-7360
Aullwood Marie S. Aull Education Center is comprised of two themed discovery spaces, 6 classrooms that turn themes, tons of interactive exhibits, academic video games, and animal specimens. Visitors can enjoy discussions by the education staff to find out about and interact with animals like snakes and birds. Classrooms are used for school expedition however the remainder of the nature center is freely explored by visitors.
I went to the nearby Aullwood Gardens as the Audubon Center was closed. (They actually touch each other if you go far enough into either one.) Unlike the center, the gardens are free to visit and don't close up until sunset. I had a good time checking out as the gardens are much bigger than you might get out of an impression.