Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center — Attraction in Alexandria

We recently celebrated our son's birthday at the Jerome Buddie Ford Nature Center, and I have Arianna to thank for making it absolutely AMAZING! While we had a great time hosting his party there a few years ago, this year's experience was truly next level--Arianna knocked it out of the park!

Here's why: Great with Kids - Six-year-olds are loud, energetic, and full of excitement, and Arianna handled them like a pro. She kept them engaged and focused while teaching them about creepy crawlers, all without ever losing patience. Even when the kids started running around, she rolled with it and skillfully brought them back to learning and having fun.

Super Helpful - We forgot an important item for the party, and Arianna immediately stepped in to help, saving us from having to run out.

Knowledgeable & Passionate - Her enthusiasm for nature and wildlife was contagious! She shared fun and interesting facts in a way that captivated both the kids and adults.

Proactive - As soon as we arrived, Arianna offered to help and popped into the party room while we were setting up to check in and see if we needed anything. Her attentiveness and initiative made the day run so smoothly!

Additional Context: We were actually able to entice our son to attend Nannie J. Lee Center last summer camp because we thought Arianna and her reptiles would be there. We were so bummed to find out she wasn't! So you can imagine our excitement when we ran into her at Jerome Buddie Ford and realized she was going to be at our son's birthday party, teaching the kids all about insects and nature!

Arianna is a gem, and I hope to see her continue to crush it at Jerome Buddie Ford Nature Center. She made our son's birthday truly special, and we are...

Arianna was the naturalist that led my friends sons bday party. There were about 17-20 children. I was amazed at how she was able to keep them quiet and organized during the presentation. She had lots of patience and handled some of the noisy children with ease. I dont know how she does it, but it was like magic. She also answered my questions and my other adult friends questions during the presentation. She included everyone. Arianna deserves a raise! (I mean it) If you have any questions about reptiles or other animals shes the person to go to!! What a fun experience watching the animals, but her way of handling children amazed me!! Thank...

Definitely one of my favorite nature centers in the area just because the staff is so knowledgeable and clearly excited to be there. We visited for "meet and greet" and got to pet a turtle. The facility is spacious and they even have a small kids corner with toys and books.

It doesn't have an outdoor playground like some other centers, but we usually save indoor adventures for rainy days anyway so that doesn't matter to us.

Parking is ample and free. Restrooms available....