If the weather is fair, consider a visit to the Plains Conservation Center in Aurora. It offers six miles of hiking trails where diverse wildlife can be observed including: raptors, pronghorn antelope, insects, snakes and prairie dogs. While hiking and exploring the property is always free, you can attend special days filled with demonstrations and workshops for FREE during 2026 free days: January 15, February 19, March 21, June 11, July 11, August 20, November 14 and December 17.
Courtesy of Denver Botanic Gardens / Scott Dressel-Martin photo
Special programming includes wagon rides to the prairie and sod homestead (weather permitting). Explore the nature center, authentic Cheyenne camp with tipis, sod houses, blacksmith shop and one-room school house.
Visitors can hike along rolling trails and may see rattle snakes, prairie dogs, pronghorn, coyotes and red-tailed hawks. Those who are especially lucky may catch a glimpse of the resident bald eagle family.
Tour the homestead. Fuel up on treats in the picnic shelter. The Center helps visitors grow their knowledge and appreciation of the prairie ecosystem.
Courtesy of Denver Botanic Gardens / Scott Dressel-Martin photo
The Center opens at 6:30 a.m. on Monday through Friday and at 8 a.m. on Saturday & Sunday, closing at 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and 6 p.m. on weekends.
The Visitor Center opens at noon on Wednesday to Friday and at 9 a.m. on Saturday & Sunday.
The site is now managed by the Denver Botanic Gardens. 21901 E. Hampden Ave., Aurora.
Want More Fun Things To Do?
Look at our full events calendar, where you can type in any date, or check out what’s happening over the next few days right here:
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