Background

Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center: A Natural Oasis in Bristol

Explore nature trails, encounter wildlife, and discover the wonders of the natural world at this Bristol nature center.

4.7

The Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center in Bristol, CT, offers a serene escape with trails, animal exhibits, and educational programs. It's a community hub where people of all ages can connect with nature.

A brief summary to Harry C Barnes Memorial Nature Center

  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Environmental Learning Centers of Connecticut (ELCCT) website for special events and programs before your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails, and be prepared for varying terrain.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas or the new gazebo.
  • Be respectful of the native habitats; keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    The Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center is located at 175 Shrub Road, Bristol, CT. From I-84, take Exit 31 for West Street toward Bristol. Follow West Street and turn onto Shrub Road. The Nature Center will be on your left. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to the Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center, you can take a CT Transit bus to downtown Bristol and then a taxi or ride-sharing service to the center. A taxi or ride-share from downtown Bristol will cost approximately $10-$15.

Unlock the Best of Harry C Barnes Memorial Nature Center

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Harry C Barnes Memorial Nature Center

The Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center, located at 175 Shrub Road in Bristol, Connecticut, is a 132-acre nature preserve that serves as the city's public nature center. Established in 1969 with an initial 40-acre parcel, the center has grown to include diverse habitats, trails, and educational facilities. The center is managed by the Environmental Learning Centers of Connecticut (ELCCT). The Nature Center was built in 1972, with additional property acquired in 1974. In 2022, the ELCCT expanded the preserve by preserving the NTH property, also known as Pigeon Hill. The original goal of the nature center was to create a community center where people of all ages could learn about the natural world. Today, it continues to inspire conservation and a love of nature through exhibits, activities, and programs. Visitors can explore over three miles of hiking trails that wind through forested wetlands, around a brook, and up to a glacial esker. A one-mile, fully accessible trail caters to visitors of all abilities. The trails are open to the public seven days a week, 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset. Inside the nature center, visitors can view native and exotic reptiles and amphibians, meet live birds of prey, and engage with interactive exhibits. The center also hosts birthday parties and special events and offers private and public education programs.

Popular Experiences near Harry C Barnes Memorial Nature Center

Popular Hotels near Harry C Barnes Memorial Nature Center

Select Currency