GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Blandford Nature Center is offering free admission for the entire month of November.
The center said they made the decision after the overwhelmingly positive response they received from the community when they offered a free month of admission last August.
The trails and grounds are open every day from dawn until dusk and the Mary Jane Dockeray Visitor Center is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Visitors will be able to explore 264 acres of forests, meadows and wetlands, eight miles of trails and one mile of ADA-accessible trails, two outdoor play areas, the children's garden and more.
The center said the opportunity for free admission is thanks to a donation from Amway.
“Amway is thrilled to partner with Blandford Nature Center to offer free access to our community this November,” said Lindsey Tilley, Amway supervisor of corporate social responsibility. “Being active and spending time in nature supports our mission of helping people live better, healthier lives."n
Blandford will also offer free activities and programs throughout the month. These include:
- Blandford’s annual Fall Nature Makers Market on Nov. 9
- Tours of Blandford's Historical Village on Nov. 16
- Electronics recycling event at the Highlands on Nov. 23
- Cinema Saturdays with short-form environmental documentaries
Visitors can also see more than 30 rehabilitated Wildlife Ambassadors as well as Blandford Farm animals.
All events at the center can be found on the community calendar.
Camilla Voelker, the community programs manager at Blandford Nature Center, said they hope the free admission will get people involved in nature despite the chilly temperatures.
“November can be a difficult time to connect with nature or spend time outdoors, we want to encourage everyone to get outside and enjoy the season with these free program opportunities and activities,” Voelker said.
