Located at 175 Shrub Road in Bristol, the Barnes Memorial Nature Center is a community center where people of all ages can be educated on nature. With regular exhibits and planned activities facilities by staff and volunteers, the nature center truly is a place to develop a love for nature and animals.

Stop by to meet Ruby the Red-tailed Hawk, check out the collection of reptiles and amphibians, adventure through the trails, and have fun with the interactive exhibits! You’ll walk out of there, as a nature and animal pro!

The nature center is open Thursdays through Saturdays from 10am until 4pm and Sundays from 12pm until 4pm. There are four total hiking trails that are open dawn to dusk. The Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System which was established in 1929 connects to the Tunxis Mainline Trail. Admission is free although donations are highly encouraged.