Anita Purves Nature Center — Attraction in Urbana

I feel like I'm at home every time I step into these woods. I truly feel like each visit and hike is better than the last and I am always learning new things about the plant life and habitat of the low lands at Busey Woods. A magical place to be and I would highly recommend to any nature lover. Great for the kids too as there is a playground made of logs and downed trees, and in the woods there are several homemade teepees and lean twos. Lots of sticks and branches available and it seems that this is encouraged. Very cool to see what other families have built on their hikes! Use your imagination, there is plenty to see and do here! Almost always see deer, tons of native birds and other wildlife. The lowland ponds make it easy to spot amphibians like frogs and...

The Anita Purves Nature Center offers a charming experience that meets all your expectations of a nature center, despite its small size. Inside, there are various activities for children, such as classrooms, and an impressive array of animals. You'll find owls, turtles, snakes, and other reptiles. Additionally, there's a cozy reading room where you can observe the surroundings and maybe catch a glimpse of the white chipmunk. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and it's common to see school kids visiting the center. Moreover, there's a delightful park dedicated to kids within the premises of...

Wonderful hidden gem in Urbana. The nature museum is small, but has fascinating exhibits about local flora and fauna, including live snakes, owls, salamanders, and turtles. Everything is very kid-friendly, and includes a place to do crayon rubbings of leaves, a touchscreen activity, and microscope. Make sure to stop at the front desk--the staff are very friendly and enthusiastic, and will give you the chance to pet a snake. The trail is also very pretty, and you can ask the front desk for a wildlife bingo card, and even sign out binoculars. Awesome spot if...