Free (0r almost Free) Things to Do When Charlotte, and the surrounding areas, have so many recreation and nature centers offering free, or almost free things to do, why look any farther? Registration is required for most classes/events, so go to www.parkandrec.com for further information.
Nature Story Corner - Free Ages: 4 Yrs. to 9 Yrs. Reedy Creek Nature Center 8-30-2012 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Settle in and get comfortable as we read a variety of nature stories. Some stories will include puppets and audience interactions as we learn about the natural wonders of the world. After the story we will go on a short hike to explore the story's topic. Umbrella Tree and Big Oak Hike - Free All Ages Reedy Creek Nature Center 09-01-2012 10:00 AM - 11:30 PM Hike the two popular trails and learn why they are named for the trees. See the headwaters of the creeks at the highest point in the preserve. Be prepared to walk 2 - 3 miles on uneven trails Mammals of Ribbon Walk Nature Preserve - Free All Ages Ribbon Walk Nature Preserve 09-01-2012 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Make Bird Feeders - Free Reedy Creek Nature Center 09-08-2012 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Learn how to make bird feeders out of recycled materials! The bird feeders are easy to make and birds will flock to your recycled feeder! Fantastic Fish - 3.00 Ages: 5 Yrs. to 12 Yrs. Latta Plantation Nature Center - Fishing Pier 09-09-12 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM This is a chance for you to learn more about fish and go fishing all in the same day. First we will talk about why fish are unique and then we will go fishing on Mountain Island Lake. Campfire Night Hike - 1.00 Ages: 6 Yrs. and over Reedy Creek Nature Center 09-14-2012 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Come and explore the woods as the nocturnal animals are waking up. We will search for night time animals, learn the stories behind the stars, and finish up by roasting marshmallows and making smores.
Join a naturalist to discover the mammals that inhabit Ribbon Walk Nature Preserve. We will hike 1 - 2 miles looking for signs of these elusive mostly nocturnal crea- Family Bug Hunt - Free tures while exploring their natural history. Participants All Ages must be able to hike up to 2 miles on uneven terrain. McDowell Nature Center 09-15-2012 Fall Fun - 3.00 per child 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Ages: 2 Yrs. to 6 Yrs. McDowell Nature Center Bring the kids and spend some quality time bug huntin'. 09-07-2012 We will grab our nets and head off to discover the fasci10:30 AM - 11:15 AM nating creepy-crawlies of our meadows and forests, Come have some fun with us to celebrate fall! Leaf rub- from butterflies to grasshoppers. The walk will cover bings, painted pinecones, wood cookie necklaces, scav- about one-half mile of easy to moderate terrain. enger hunts and more! Pg 13 | www.CityUnwrapped.com | August/September 2012