Wonder Walks

Join us for free, guided nature walks

Matthaei Botanical Gardens hosts free guided Wonder Walks on select Wednesdays and Sundays throughout the season, with occasional additional walks and special-topic programs offered on other days. Walk themes, times, and formats may vary.

Wonder Walks are designed for all ages to inspire curiosity and learning from each other through activities that encourage observation, exploration, and connection with nature. If we have a sizeable mixed-age group, we may split into two groups to deliver the same content at different engagement levels.

Wednesday walks begin at 5:00 pm. Sunday walks begin at 1:00 pm unless otherwise noted. We recommend gathering in the lobby at Matthaei Botanical Gardens about 10 minutes before the start.

Wednesday Walks

Wednesday walks typically begin at 5:00 PM. We recommend gathering at the front entrance steps of Matthaei Botanical Gardens at 4:50 PM.

Sunday Walks

Sunday walks begin at 1:00 PM. We recommend gathering at the front entrance steps of Matthaei Botanical Gardens at 12:50 PM.

September

Wednesday, September 9, 5:00 PM: Sun-Kissed September

Savor the season and discover nature's beauty. Collect a few leaves, flowers, and seeds to press and use in a simple, handmade scrapbook you can add to throughout the fall season. All ages welcome.

Sunday, September 13, 1:00 PM: Fall Scrapbook

Late summer is bittersweet; days are a bit shorter, but yellow, purple, and deep greens reign in the fields. Join us for a walk on less-traveled trails, including Dix Pond and the Fen boardwalk, to revel in the beauty of late summer. This walk covers one of our longer trails; sturdy shoes are suggested.

Sunday, September 30, 5:00 PM: Climate Week Wonder Walk: Strategies for Resilience

Taking a positive step! Learn about native plantings and bioswales as climate action.