Bill's Backyard: Bridge to Nature

Bill's Backyard: Bridge to Nature, located at the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, is a unique outdoor learning environment where children can explore and appreciate the natural world. Opened in 2017, this half-acre space offers a range of interactive exhibits designed to foster curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills through unstructured play. The exhibit includes a Jr. Ranger Station where children can learn about local natural features and wildlife. The Tree Climber, with its tall trees and sky bridges, allows kids to experience climbing and see the world from a new perspective. There's also a Look Out Tower and Tunnel for kids to jump, roll, and scurry like animals, and a Dig Pit filled with stones for digging and scooping. Bill's Backyard aims to bridge the gap between urban children and nature, providing a safe and accessible space for outdoor exploration. It encourages families to venture out to nearby parks and wilderness areas, fostering a deeper understanding of the environment and inspiring future land stewards. The space also includes elements like a dry creek bed and a garden, offering diverse opportunities for sensory experiences and learning about nature.