Located in Smithtown, NY this nature preserve is a great place to visit.
” Sweet Briar Nature Center is a private not-for-profit corporation which exists to provide natural science education services for Long Island residents of all ages and to engage in native wildlife rehabilitation services. Through education and examples, ECSS encourages responsible decision making, appreciation, and respect for the unique wildlife and ecosystems found on Long Island.” – http://sweetbriarnc.org/
When Mia and I first entered the nature center we were greeted by a great group of people who work at the nature center. They were all so kind and looked forward to telling us about the nature center and all the great animals, trails and the butterfly/moth house we can see during our visit.
We first explored inside and there was so much to see:
The reptile room was very cool with lots of creatures to see: Lizards, Geckos. Frogs, Snakes and so much more…
Next we visited upstairs where the Rainforest rooms were and I was blown away with how beautiful it was
Everywhere you look when your inside there is another door to go through; with more animals to see and learn about.
They also have great educational tools everywhere you look and staff to answer any questions you have.
We then headed outside with the great map that was given to us at the front desk by one of the many nice staff members, Karen.
As you can see there is a lot to do here and see, with an easy trail marked out ( 30 minutes long ).
“Sweetbriar Nature Center is situated on 54 acres of varied garden, woodland, field and wetland habitats on the Nissequogue River. Hundreds of species of plants and animals make homes here.”
As we ventured out we saw lots of beautiful flowers and greenery in their gardens.
We loved exploring and looking around. There are even cute benches set up, where we decided to take a quick rest and enjoy a cool drink.
We then headed to the Butterfly/Moth house. That had a small fee to enter of $3.00 for adults and $2.00 for kids under 12 years old and seniors.
While in the Butterfly house that is absolutely beautiful, we got to see a butterfly hatch from its cocoon
Mia was loving see all the beautiful butterflies and moths fly around her.
We loved our day at the Sweet Briar Nature Center and we will definitely be back soon to do some more exploring.
At the Sweet Briar Nature Center you can Volunteer
Enroll your child in great nature programs and camp/ preschool
or just visit the center for all its beauty and nature
Located at: 62 Eckernkamp Drive Smithtown, NY 11787
Phone: 631-979-6344
If you would like to donate or become a “friend” to one of their animals you can do so. Your donations go directly to the animals in the form of food, health care and housing. Your gift not only benefits the animals, but adds to the enjoyment of other visitors to the Nature Center, who come to learn about wildlife.
Sweetbriar Nature Center has been chosen as a Momee Friends of Long Island Bright Pick.
Congratulations!
My kids have been there with school but I haven’t yet. Looks and sounds like fun!
It is so nice. It cost me a big $5 with donations. And I ended up being another few dollars in the donation box because I loved it there and want it to always be there. Wonderful place, Ma was able to run around and I did not worry at all. Kid friendly and fun!
What a nice, fun, well written review of the center. Maybe I will go with a friend of mine who loves birdwatching.
Thank you so much. It is a great place to visit. I am sure you will love it.
Great review of a terrific place. Sweetbriar Nature Center is one of my favorite haunts. I’ve been a big fan of Sweetbriar for years. Some of my photographs adorn their walls.
An earlier commenter mentioned bringing a birdwatcher. Your friend will like it here. Not only does Sweetbriar offer good views of seldom seen birds like various hawks and owls, but the grounds themselves are teeming with native birds and other critters. You won’t regret your visit. JK
Thank you Joe. I really love it there too and so happy it is a place other Long Islanders love to visit