Relax with nature at Aullwood Audubon, a 200-acre nature sanctuary and educational farm in Dayton, Ohio. It is part of the National Audubon Society and is nationally recognized for environmental programming that focuses on connecting children of all ages with the wonders of birds, nature, wildlife and bird-friendly farming. Aullwood’s sanctuary has eight miles of walking trails winding through prairie, woods, ponds, farmland and meadows including the Birds, Flight and the Wrights Trail, an all people accessible 4/10 mile loop. Aullwood is home of “The Troll that Hatched an Egg by Thomas Dambo” exhibit. The three trolls and troll-sized birds nest are located along Aullwood’s trails and support the mission of recycling, conservation and protecting the earth.
The Marie S. Aull Education Center is filled with dozens of hands-on exhibits that interpret southwest Ohio’s flora and fauna in two discovery rooms; countless opportunities to explore rich natural history resources in five thematic classrooms; and places for quiet reflection in observation rooms. A 125-seat auditorium provides space for meetings, conferences, wedding receptions, parties and other community events.
Aullwood Farm is home to many farm animals that are on the Livestock Conservancy’s endangered list including horses, cattle, sheep, ducks, pigs, chickens, turkeys, donkeys, and goats. The Farm Discovery Center features interactive exhibits, which interpret sustainable agriculture. A 200-seat auditorium provides space for meetings, conferences, wedding receptions, parties and other community events. Visitors may explore the century-old bank barn, pastures, colorful herb and vegetable gardens, springhouse and trails through the woods and prairies.
Twenty-four environmental education programs are offered which meet the newly approved Ohio academic standards for science and social studies. Guided and self-guided tours are also available. Program fees vary. Call Aullwood for additional information at 937-890-7360. Open all year from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. Closed on Monday and some major holidays. There is an admission fee. Friends of Aullwood, ANCA and National Audubon Society members are FREE.
The Marie S. Aull Education Center is located at 1000 Aullwood Road and Aullwood Farm at 9101 Frederick Pike, Dayton, OH 45414. Both facilities are three miles west of the Dayton International Airport and a short 20-minute drive from downtown Dayton on Interstate 75 North. There is ample free parking. For more information call Aullwood at 937-890-7360 or visit their website.
