Tree Hill Nature Center Offers Everyday Adventure
Jacksonville, FL -- This year, I missed the 16th annual Joseph A. Strasser Butterfly Festival, one of Jacksonville's most exciting events, held at Tree Hill Nature Center in Arlington. Each spring, hundreds of attendees show up for a much awaited live butterfly release.
The event fell on a jam-packed Saturday, so I bypassed it in lieu of a different adventure in the days after. My mom and nephews joined me in a more intimate exploration of Tree Hill on a Thursday afternoon.
We found it exciting that some of the released butterflies remain in the area. We followed a nature trail reminiscent of the Jungle Book to an open field decorated with flower patches, an amphitheater and community garden. Watching my nephews, I thought "there's nothing freer than chasing a butterfly." It's even sweeter to hold one!
And these beautiful, winged creatures of transformation are not the only draw. Tree Hill Nature Center houses a Florida Natural History Museum along with outdoor opportunities to visit goats, chickens, alligators and more.
I recommend this place for anyone looking for relaxation as well as moms looking for everyday adventures for kids. Some of the trails are paved and stroller-friendly!
Tree Hill Nature Center is located at 7152 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211. It is open Monday through Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Admission:
$5 Adults
$4 Seniors/College/Military
$3 Kids 3-17
FREE under 3
For more information, visit www.treehill.org or call (904) 724-4646.
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