Plains Conservation Center (Visitor Center), High Plains Travel Guide

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Explore Colorado's prairie heritage at this Aurora center with homesteads, wildlife, and educational programs. Free entry to trails and exhibits!

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Plains Conservation Center (Visitor Center)

Discover the Plains Conservation Center in Aurora, Colorado, a sprawling 1,100-acre nature preserve and educational center. Explore replicated homesteads and tipi camps, hike scenic trails, and encounter native wildlife while learning about Colorado's prairie ecosystem and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Plains Conservation Center (Visitor Center)

21901 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, Colorado, 80013, US
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Wednesday 12 pm-4:30 pm
Thursday 12 pm-4:30 pm
Friday 12 pm-4:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Plains Conservation Center (Visitor Center).

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting wildlife along the trails.
Check the schedule for guided tours and special events, such as full moon hikes or cultural history programs, to enhance your visit.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the center is home to over 100 bird species.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on potentially rugged trails.
Stop by the visitor center to pick up a map and learn about the history of the site before exploring the trails.

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Explore Plains Conservation Center (Visitor Center) on the Map

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Getting There

Driving

From I-225, take exit 5A to merge onto E Hampden Ave. Continue east on Hampden Ave for approximately 3 miles. The Plains Conservation Center will be on your left at 21901 E Hampden Ave. Parking is available at the visitor center. Limited parking may be available during peak hours or special events.
Public Transport

Take the RTD (Regional Transportation District) bus route 1 or 15 towards Aurora. Get off at the 'Hampden Ave & Parker Rd' stop. From there, walk approximately 1 mile west on Hampden Ave to reach the Plains Conservation Center at 21901 E Hampden Ave. A single ride on RTD costs $3.
Ride Share

From anywhere in Aurora, a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to the Plains Conservation Center will typically cost between $15 and $30, depending on the distance and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.

Discover more about Plains Conservation Center (Visitor Center)

The Plains Conservation Center offers a unique glimpse into Colorado's prairie ecosystem and the lives of those who once called it home. This 1,100-acre site, managed by the City of Aurora in partnership with the Denver Botanic Gardens, features a blend of natural beauty and historical exhibits.Visitors can explore a replicated 1880s homestead village, complete with a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and heirloom garden, offering a glimpse into pioneer life. A Cheyenne tipi camp provides insight into the traditions of indigenous peoples of the plains.The center's extensive trail system winds through shortgrass prairie, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife such as pronghorn, prairie dogs, coyotes, and various bird species, including bald eagles and red-tailed hawks. The visitor center offers maps and information about the area's history and ecology.Originally established in 1949 as an educational resource for sustainable farming, the Plains Conservation Center continues to promote conservation and ecological awareness through various programs and events. These include guided hikes, school programs, and cultural history presentations.