Roaring Brook Nature Center is committed to providing an environment that maximizes learning.
We offer a comprehensive list of programs for students spanning Pre-K through Grade 8.
All programs are aligned with the CT Core Standards and NGSS.
For all school programs, call the Nature Center at (860) 693-0263 between 9 AM and 4 PM Monday through Friday.
Because dates fill up quickly, reservations should be made
as early as possible in the school year.
Additional programs are offered by The Children’s Museum in West Hartford
We have been included in the most recent article on the
best field trip locations to visit in Connecticut
by the international educational publisher Twinkl
–you can read more here.
Bringing A Breath Of Fresh Air
To The Standards
The Nature Center includes a small interpretive building and five miles of trails on a 150+ acre wildlife preserve. The Center offers a wide variety of educational programs including field trips to the Center.
Please call the Nature Center so we may tailor the program to meet the needs of your students and curriculum.
When You Come to
Roaring Brook ...
Field Trip Pricing and Times
Program Pricing
- 1 hr 15 min program – $11 per student ($230 minimum)
- 2 hr program – $15 per student ($275 minimum)
- All-day program – $20 per student ($415 minimum)
- Early Childhood Programs – 1 hour program – $10 per student ($190 minimum)
Teachers and school staff are free.
One free chaperone per 15 students.
Additional chaperones $6 each.
Program Times
Programs typically begin at 9:30 AM, 11 AM , or 1 PM.
Schedule times may vary slightly for 2-hour programs.
For all-day programs, scheduling as early in the year as possible is recommended.
Special Needs
Please notify the Nature Center of any special needs of your group.
Our building is wheelchair accessible and we have an ADA compliant restroom; most or our trails are not wheelchair accessible but several smaller trails near our building are wheelchair accessible.
Arrival / Teacher Check-in
Upon arrival, teachers should check into the gift shop/office.
If you are planning to arrive early, please notify the Center as building space may be in use by other groups.
Late arrivals may result in shortened programs. Refunds are not issued for shortened programs.
Payment Policies
Full payment is required upon arrival unless other arrangements are made in advance.
Payment may be made in the form of cash (larger bills, please), check, or with a credit card. The Nature Center does not accept discount coupons or Museum memberships in lieu of payment for school programs.
Two-week cancellation notice is required to avoid being billed the minimum program fee.
There is no charge for groups canceling due to inclement weather.
Every effort will be made to reschedule.
Weather / Clothing
Programs at Roaring Brook Nature Center utilize the wide variety of habitats in the refuge. Classes will go out in the rain, except in the event of thunderstorms.
Participants must come dressed to go outdoors.
Picnic Facilities
Limited facilities are available to groups. Reservations are required.
Gift Shop
The Nature Center gift shop carries a variety of nature-related items
for children and adults.
- Reservations are requested for gift shop use.
- Gift bags may be ordered in advance. To place an order, call (860) 693-0263.
Gift shop proceeds support our educational programming.
Roaring Brook Nature Center trail
One of the walk-through exhibit dioramas at the Nature Center
When Roaring Brook
Comes to You ...
Bring nature right into your classroom! Our wonderful Nature Center staff are excited to present programs that are tailor made to supplement your lessons. Choose from our list of curated programs or we’re happy to assist you in creating a program to meet your needs.
In Person Outreach Programs
- Classroom program – $250 (maximum of 30 students)
- Pre-Kindergarten program – $250* (maximum of 18 students)
- Assembly program – $400 (maximum of 150 students)
Some assembly programs can also be done as outreach classroom programs.
*Qualifies for multi-program discount
Virtual Outreach Programs
- Classroom program – $200 (maximum of 30 students)
- Assembly program – $350 (maximum of 100 students)
Payment Policies
Payment
Full payment is required before the program date unless other arrangements are made in advance.
Payment may be made in the form check, or with a credit card.
Mileage
$.85 per mile
A $30 fee is applied for locations greater than 25 miles away from the Nature Center. A $60 fee is applied for locations requiring travel greater than 50 miles and a $100 fee for travel greater than 100 miles.
Cancellations
Two-week cancellation notice is required to avoid being billed the minimum program fee.
There is no charge for groups canceling due to inclement weather.
Every effort will be made to reschedule.