Jackson

Missouri is home to some amazing creatures out there and some are even a little creepy! Come out an explore a realm of animals that you and your little one might just find a little weird, strange or odd. Program includes a hike in the woods on a paved trail to go out and search for creepy critters!

It is autumn so it is time for the harvest. Join us as we share some amazing recipes made from this year’s bounty of wild edibles.

Bats may seem spooky, but they have an important role in out night sky. Join us as we learn about nature's pest control. Following the program will include bat trivia, with a wingtastic prize to the winner.

Walk-in (all ages) HOWLoween is back and we want you to join the fun! The Discovery Center and KCPD along with several neighborhood partners will provide nighttime fun for all ages. Take a hike on the Wild Side Walk to get up close with some of Missouri's nocturnal wildlife. Kids will have a howling good time exploring nature stations like Track or Treat, The Bone Yard, Buggy Bistro, Operation Wildlife and much more. It will be a howling fun, free and unforgettable event for the entire family. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.

Walk-in (ages 8+) Nature provides incredible inspiration and one-of-a-kind art supplies in our own backyards. Welcome to fall as we explore the native habitats throughout the Discovery Center's big backyard and gather flower petals, leaves, berries, nuts, grasses, feathers and other fall treasures. Step back inside and use your creative side as you create your own unique native bling! If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.

Walk-in (all ages) Whether you are a painter or like to admire artwork at the Discovery Center come join us for the culmination of the Brush Creek Art Walk! Staring at 6:00 p.m. awards will be handed out to the hardworking artists followed by a meet and greet. The artwork will be on display through the end of November. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.

Registration required (adults) Fall is the finest time for forage for fruits of the forest. Come experience our harvest table of wild mushrooms, hickory nuts, walnuts and forest fruits like pawpaws, persimmons and wild grapes. There will be taste tests and a few wild recipes to sample. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

Walk-in (ages 12+) Join native landscape specialists from MDC and Deep Roots KC as the Discovery Center gardens transition from summer to fall! We'll walk the grounds and discuss the "do's and don'ts" of fall cleanup as well as highlight seasonal showcase plants. This is a cooperative program with Deep Roots KC. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.

Registration required (all ages) Fall is the finest time to forage for fruits of the forest. Join us as we explore a harvest table of wild mushrooms, hickory nuts, walnuts and forest fruits like pawpaws, persimmons and wild grapes.

Walk-in (ages 3-6) Discovering the amazing natural world is as easy as opening a book! This volunteer naturalist led story program is ideal for preschool - kindergarten children and will take them on journeys to learn about wildlife, habitats and more. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.