CALENDAR

GREAT THINGS HAPPENING EVERY DAY

2023
2024
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

January 2023

February 2023

Early Bird Special - A Quarry Hill Member Event

Free for members
February 4th, 7:30 am9:00 am

Quarry Hill has been feeding birds for years as part of its bird banding education and research program. This has established a community of birds that visit the feeders daily. We recently re-captured a chickadee that was first banded at Quarry Hill in 2014! 

During winter the feeders are especially busy and the birds are especially beautiful against the white snow. Quarry Hill adult members are invited to a special viewing time in the bird observation room before the Nature Center opens to the public. In this quieter setting, you can expect to see woodpeckers, chickadees, juncos, nuthatches and perhaps less common visitors like purple finches, pine siskins and brown creepers.

read more
It's Snow Crazy
$7/person

February 4th, 1:30 pm3:30 pm

Bring your family and friends for an afternoon of snow games and experience snow like you never have before!

read more
Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
February 5th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

read more
Friday Night Lights
$6/person

February 10th, 5:30 pm8:00 pm

Embrace Minnesota’s sparkling season and beautiful winter landscape with an evening of hiking by candlelight.

read more
Early Bird Special - A Quarry Hill Member Event

Free for members
February 11th, 7:30 am9:00 am

Quarry Hill has been feeding birds for years as part of its bird banding education and research program. This has established a community of birds that visit the feeders daily. We recently re-captured a chickadee that was first banded at Quarry Hill in 2014! 

During winter the feeders are especially busy and the birds are especially beautiful against the white snow. Quarry Hill adult members are invited to a special viewing time in the bird observation room before the Nature Center opens to the public. In this quieter setting, you can expect to see woodpeckers, chickadees, juncos, nuthatches and perhaps less common visitors like purple finches, pine siskins and brown creepers.

read more
Valentine's Hike by Candlelight
$10/person

February 11th, 6:00 pm8:00 pm

Bring your sweetheart or come with friends for a candlelit evening in nature. 

Follow the glow of a candlelit trail to the Prairie House. There you can warm up by a bonfire and enjoy your selection from the hot cocoa bar, with or without spirits. Luminaries will light your return path. Don't forget to stop at the photo tree adorned with candles for a selfie with your special someone.

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Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for members
February 12th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Tracks! Who goes there?
$18/pair
$15/members
February 15th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Two feet, four feet - small feet, big feet. We all make tracks in the snow!  Bring your valentine, don some snowshoes (weather permitting) and make some 'lovely' tracks of your own as you search for animal tracks and signs. While outside, we will be sure to leave a special valentine for the animals to show them some love, too.

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Beyond the Book: Secrets of Winter
$5/person

February 17th, 6:00 pm7:00 pm

Enjoy a reading of the children’s book, Secrets of Winter by Carron BrownThen meet a Quarry Hill ambassador animal before heading outdoors for a night hike. Using flashlights to guide our way, we will search for the secrets of winter in Quarry Hill Park.

read more
Early Bird Special - A Quarry Hill Member Event

Free for members
February 18th, 7:30 am9:00 am

Quarry Hill has been feeding birds for years as part of its bird banding education and research program. This has established a community of birds that visit the feeders daily. We recently re-captured a chickadee that was first banded at Quarry Hill in 2014! 

During winter the feeders are especially busy and the birds are especially beautiful against the white snow. Quarry Hill adult members are invited to a special viewing time in the bird observation room before the Nature Center opens to the public. In this quieter setting, you can expect to see woodpeckers, chickadees, juncos, nuthatches and perhaps less common visitors like purple finches, pine siskins and brown creepers.

read more
Critter Spotlight - Owls
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
February 19th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Owls have many adaptations for their life in the forest. Totally silent flight, sharp talons, and large eyes set forward make them stealthy hunters. Learn all about these impressive predatory adaptations and the owl species that live in Minnesota. 

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
February 26th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more

March 2023

Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
March 5th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
March 12th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Sticky Sweet Maple Treats
$18/pair
$15/members
March 15th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Bring your sweet tooth and discover the natural sugars of Minnesota maple trees. Learn how maple syrup is harvested and made and take part in the process first hand. Be ready to sample nature's sweet treats!

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Beyond the Book: Grandpa Alan's Sugar Shack
$5/person

Tickets Here
March 18th, 9:30 am10:30 am

Gather 'round for a reading of the children’s book Grandpa Alan’s Sugar Shack by Alan Page. Then head outdoors to tap a tree and learn about gathering sap and making syrup; a sweet syrup treat will follow.

About the Book: Here is the gentle story of a granddaughter discovering one of the great joys of her grandfather's youth - spring in the north woods, when the maple trees are bursting with sap.
Together, grandfather and granddaughter make their way out into the chilly pre-dawn woods to find and tap maple trees, hang buckets, and collect sap. And then patiently (or not!), they wait for the sap to boil into syrup back at the sugar shack. They wait until . . . at last! The first sweet taste of amber, sticky goodness is ready.

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Critter Spotlight - Goodness Snakes!
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
March 19th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

There are seven native Minnesota snake species at the Nature Center. From flexible jaws to smelling with their tongue, snakes are charming! Slither in and coil up while a naturalist introduces you to a variety of snakes and their scaly goodness.

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
March 26th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more

April 2023

Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
April 2nd, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

read more
Spring Break Nature Camp Gr. K-5, April 3 & 4
$65
$55/members
Register online.
April 3rd, 9:00 am11:30 am

No homework required during this two-day mini camp for grades K-5. Spend your days off enjoying some good-natured fun with a Quarry Hill naturalist discovering the many signs of spring emerging in the park. Explorers and investigators - read on to see which camp is designed especially for your age group.

read more
Spring Break Nature Camp Gr. K-5, April 3 & 4
$65
$55/members
Register online.
April 3rd, 1:00 pm3:30 pm

No homework required during this two-day mini camp for grades K-5. Spend your days off enjoying some good-natured fun with a Quarry Hill naturalist discovering the many signs of spring emerging in the park. Explorers, and investigators - read on to see which camp is designed especially for your age group.

read more
Spring Break Nature Camp Gr. K-5, April 3 & 4
$65
$55/members
Register online.
April 4th, 9:00 am11:30 am

No homework required during this two-day mini camp for grades K-5. Spend your days off enjoying some good-natured fun with a Quarry Hill naturalist discovering the many signs of spring emerging in the park. Explorers, and investigators - read on to see which camp is designed especially for your age group.

read more
Spring Break Nature Camp Gr. K-5, April 3 & 4
$65
$55/member
Register online.
April 4th, 1:00 pm3:30 pm

No homework required during this two-day mini camp for grades K-5. Spend your days off enjoying some good-natured fun with a Quarry Hill naturalist discovering the many signs of spring emerging in the park. Explorers, and investigators - read on to see which camp is designed especially for your age group.

read more
Spring Break Nature Camp Gr. K-5, April 5 & 6
$65
$55/members
Register online.
April 5th, 9:00 am11:30 am

No homework required during this two-day mini camp for grades K-5. Spend your days off enjoying some good-natured fun with a Quarry Hill naturalist discovering the many signs of spring emerging in the park. Explorers and investigators - read on to see which camp is designed especially for your age group.

read more
Spring Break Nature Camp Gr. K-5, April 5 & 6
$65
$55/members
Register online.
April 6th, 9:00 am11:30 am

No homework required during this two-day mini camp for grades K-5. Spend your days off enjoying some good-natured fun with a Quarry Hill naturalist discovering the many signs of spring emerging in the park. Explorers, and investigators - read on to see which camp is designed especially for your age group

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
April 9th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more
Good Natured Kids: How Egg-citing, it’s spring!
$18/pair
$15/members
April 12th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Get ready to hatch some fun as we investigate what babies are cracking free from their eggs. We will hike through the park scouting for nests and then try out nest building for ourselves. Finally, let’s celebrate the beauty of the egg by adorning some with naturally colored dye.

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Critter Spotlight - Frogs & Toads
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
April 16th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Ribbit, croak, and sing. Our frogs have plenty to say about their lifestyle at Quarry Hill. We might even see some of their friends on a quick trip out to the pond.

read more
Springtime Geocache Hunt - A Quarry Hill Members-Only Event

Free for Members
April 22nd, 12:00 am12:00 am

Spring has sprung and it’s a great time to hit the trails. Pick up or print your exclusive member passport containing coordinates to 4 geocaches in Quarry Hill Park.  Follow the coordinates and discover what animal is hatching from each ‘egg’ you find. Hatch all four eggs, collect all 4 stamps and turn in your passport for a chance to win a Get Outdoors Family Adventure Pack provided by Scheels. 

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Native Plant Sale
April 22nd, 8:30 am10:30 am

A great way to bring a natural touch into your backyard, native plants are best adapted to the local climate and once extablished seldom need watering, mulching, or protection from frost. 
All orders are pre-order only.

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Earth Day Presentation: Shaped by Water with Andrew Pruett

Free
April 22nd, 10:00 am11:00 am

This Earth Day we take time to think about the importance of water.  Making up more than 60 % of our body and our Earth, water deserves our attention!  Join Quarry Hill volunteer Andrew Pruett to hear how water has shaped his life. 

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
April 23rd, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more
Earth Day Celebration & Peregrine Falcon Presentation
April 23rd, 2:00 pm4:00 pm

Earth Day is a remarkable day that deserves celebration!  And what better way to do that than sharing an environmental success story? Join us at Quarry Hill Nature Center to hear all about the peregrine story and see a live falcon up close.  

Learn what is being done right here in Minnesota to help the species and what we have discovered about them after 40 years of research. Following the program, try your hand at our Animal Survival Game. 

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Critter Spotlight - Frogs & Toads
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
April 30th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Ribbit, croak, and sing. Our frogs have plenty to say about their lifestyle at Quarry Hill. We might even see some of their friends on a quick trip out to the pond.

read more

May 2023

Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
May 7th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
May 14th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more
Good Natured Kids: How does your garden grow?
$18/pair
$15/members
May 17th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Get the scoop on how to nurture nature in your very own backyard by starting seeds that will create a delicious wildlife buffet.  First, we will sow some seeds for wildlife here in the park and then decorate a flowerpot for the seeds you can grow at home. 

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50th Anniversary Community Celebration: Planting for the Future

Registration Not Required
May 20th, 9:00 am11:30 am

On May 20th, 2023 exactly 50 years from the 1973 dedication of the Nature Center, we invite the community to celebrate with us and participate in a large restorative planting.

This event, free and open to all.

9:00 AM Program & Remarks:

Friends of Quarry Hill Board Chair Peggy Edwards
Mayor & former Quarry Hill Board Member Kim Norton
Rochester Public School Board Director Jean Marvin
Former Quarry Hill Director, Greg Munson
Present Quarry Hill Director, Pamela Meyer

9:30 - 11:00 Plant a Tree!

Working with community partners, community members are invited to help plant 350 trees and shrubs, more than 360 native plants and pull invasive garlic mustard - activities that will protect the natural landscape and our outdoor classroom for generations to come.

10:00 - 11:30 Celebrate

Refreshments and social time.

 

 

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Critter Spotlight - Worms & Decomposers
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
May 21st, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

'Open a can of worms' with a Quarry Hill naturalist during this adventure into the wonderful world of worms. Learn about earthworms, worm compost and other decomposers.

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
May 28th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more

June 2023

Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
June 4th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

read more
Beyond the Book: Yoga Bunny
$5/person

Tickets Here
June 9th, 6:00 pm7:00 pm

Join a naturalist at Quarry Hill for a reading of the children’s book Yoga Bunny by Brian Russo.  Then take a slow walk to the Prairie House and practice poses just like Yoga Bunny and his friends.Join a naturalist at Quarry Hill for a reading of the children’s book Yoga Bunny by Brian Russo.  Then take a slow walk to the Prairie House and practice poses just like Yoga Bunny and his friends.

About the book:
It’s a perfect day for yoga, and Bunny is practicing his poses and wishes his friends would do yoga with him!  But lizard is too tired, fox is in a rush, and Bird has the hiccups. Will Bunny ever be able to get his friends to slow down and realize that yoga just might be the solution to their problems?

read more
Beyond the Book: Yoga Bunny
$5/person

Tickets Here
June 9th, 7:00 pm8:00 pm

Join a naturalist at Quarry Hill for a reading of the children’s book Yoga Bunny by Brian Russo.  Then take a slow walk to the Prairie House and practice poses just like Yoga Bunny and his friends.Join a naturalist at Quarry Hill for a reading of the children’s book Yoga Bunny by Brian Russo.  Then take a slow walk to the Prairie House and practice poses just like Yoga Bunny and his friends.

About the book:
It’s a perfect day for yoga, and Bunny is practicing his poses and wishes his friends would do yoga with him!  But lizard is too tired, fox is in a rush, and Bird has the hiccups. Will Bunny ever be able to get his friends to slow down and realize that yoga just might be the solution to their problems?

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for Members
Tickets Here
June 11th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Hello Little Blue
$18
$15/members
June 13th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

June Topic: Hello Little Blue
Learn about little blue as we hike the blue bird trail, peek into a nest, and enjoy a sweet “tweet” treat. We’ll also craft our own little blue bird.

 

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Good Natured Kids: Hello Little Blue
$18
$15/members
June 14th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

June Topic: Hello Little Blue
Learn about little blue as we hike the blue bird trail, peek into a nest, and enjoy a sweet “tweet” treat. We’ll also craft our own little blue bird.

read more
Fossil Hunting Hike
$4
Free for members
Tickets here.
June 18th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Dig into the past to discover what fossil fortunes are hiding in the rocks at Quarry Hill Park!

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for Members
Tickets Here
June 25th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Backyard Camper
$18
$15/members
June 27th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

June Topic: Backyard Camper
Snores, lores and s’mores – that’s what makes a great camp out! We’ll go on a scavenger hunt, gather wood for a fire, set up camp & fuel up with a traditional s’more!

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Good Natured Kids: Backyard Camper
$18
$15/members
June 28th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

June Topic: Backyard Camper
Snores, lores and s’mores – that’s what makes a great camp out! We’ll go on a scavenger hunt, gather wood for a fire, set up camp & fuel up with a traditional s’more!
 

read more

July 2023

Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
July 2nd, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for Members
Tickets Here
July 9th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Mighty Spidey
$18
$15/members
July 11th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

July Topic: Mighty Spidey
Connect with your inner Mighty Spidey sense! Find out what makes spiders so mighty – 8 legs, 8 eyes, the ability to spin webs and more. Roll out your own webby craft and “wrap up” the morning with a spiderlicious snack!

read more
Good Natured Kids: Mighty Spidey
$18
$15/members
July 12th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

July Topic: Mighty Spidey
Connect with your inner Mighty Spidey sense! Find out what makes spiders so mighty – 8 legs, 8 eyes, the ability to spin webs and more. Roll out your own webby craft and “wrap up” the morning with a spiderlicious snack!

read more
Fossil Hunting Hike
$4
Free for Members
Tickets Here
July 16th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Dig into the past to discover what fossil fortunes are hiding in the rocks at Quarry Hill.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Busy Buzzy Bee
$18
$15/members
July 18th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

July Topic: Busy Buzzy Bee
Get the buzz on honey bees! Learn all about how hive jives and perfect your waggle dance as we play pollinator. A sticky treat and an up-close encounter with our meadow observation hive will top this sweet class.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Busy Buzzy Bee
$18
$15/members
July 19th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

July Topic: Busy Buzzy Bee
Get the buzz on honey bees! Learn all about how hive jives and perfect your waggle dance as we play pollinator. A sticky treat and an up-close encounter with our meadow observation hive will top this sweet class.

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for Members
Tickets Here
July 23rd, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more

August 2023

Good Natured Kids: Toadstool Town
$18
$15/members
August 1st, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

July Topic: Toadstool Town
There is fungus among us. Join us as we explore the citizens of Toadstool Town! Create your own toadstool to take home, play mushroom games and sample some deliciously creative toadstools.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Toadstool Town
$18
$15/members
August 2nd, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

August Topic: Toadstool Town
There is fungus among us. Join us as we explore the citizens of Toadstool Town! Create your own toadstool to take home, play mushroom games and sample some deliciously creative toadstools.

read more
Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
August 6th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Gimme Shelter
$18
$15/members
August 8th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

August Topic: Gimme Shelter
Some animals need special “Shell-ters” to keep them safe. Join us as we encounter turtles, snails and crayfish to learn why they are all at home in a shell.  A shell-tacular snack and craft will round out our morning.

read more
Good Natured Kids: Gimme Shelter
$18
$15/members
August 9th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

August Topic: Gimme Shelter
Some animals need special “Shell-ters” to keep them safe. Join us as we encounter turtles, snails and crayfish to learn why they are all at home in a shell.  A shell-tacular snack and craft will round out our morning.

read more
Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for Members
Tickets Here
August 13th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

read more
Moth Ball - A Quarry Hill Members Only Event

Free for Members
August 17th, 8:30 pm10:30 pm

As the sun sets we will gather to celebrate the beauty of the moth. Using techniques known as light sheeting and sugar baiting we will draw in this often unheralded creature of the night.

Look for moths on baited trees as you hike to the Prairie House where you'll meet Kyle Johnson, moth and butterfly specialist with the Minnesota Biological Survey. He will lead us in identifying our finds and will share his wealth of knowledge on these mysterious creatures. To round out the night, create your own Luna Moth mask and dress up for the photo booth to remember your evening at the Moth Ball.

  • It is a 10 minute hike to the Prairie House on uneven terrain. This trail is not stroller friendly.
  • Flashlights recommended
  • No pets allowed
  • Event is for Quarry Hill members only

Members were emailed a link to the event with a ticket code. Inquire if you need this information.

Timed entry - choose your ticket time.

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Fossil Hunting Hike
$4
Free for Members
Tickets Here
August 20th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Dig into the past to discover what fossil fortunes are hiding in the rocks at Quarry Hill.

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Good Natured Kids: The Bugliest Bugs
$18
$15/members
August 22nd, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

August Topic: The Bugliest Bugs
In field and forest, we’ll go on a bug hunting adventure! Test your net skills, play buggy games, devour a buggy snack. We’ll learn all about what makes even the ‘bugliest’ bugs cool.

 

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Good Natured Kids: The Bugliest Bugs
$18
$15/members
August 23rd, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

August Topic: The Bugliest Bugs
In field and forest, we’ll go on a bug hunting adventure! Test your net skills, play buggy games, devour a buggy snack. We’ll learn all about what makes even the ‘bugliest’ bugs cool.

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Monarch Tagging - Cancelled

Free to All
August 24th, 3:00 pm5:00 pm

Leaders: Joel Dunnette (ZVAS) & Pamela Meyer (Quarry Hill)
Free and all ages welcome. Help us catch, tag and release monarch butterflies as they migrate through our area on their journey south to Mexico. Citizens just like you are important contributors to monarch research and conservation. Join us in the field to learn why!
This is an open house event hosted a the West entrance to Quarry Hill Park. Learn about the monarch's life cycle and have fun walking in the Oak Savanna to catch a monarch for tagging. Come and go on your own schedule. We'll provide the nets.
Park at the West entrance to Quarry Hill Park (not the nature center entrance) at 2100 9th St NE. Be prepared for a short hike up the hill to the Oak Savanna. Water bottles and sunscreen are recommended.

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Cave Tour and History Hike
$4
Free for Members
Tickets Here
August 27th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Step back in time when you step into the Quarry Hill Cave! Quarry Hill Park was once part of the Rochester State Hospital grounds and there remains some interesting historic features from a century of agriculture, quarry operations and more. Learn about some of these historic features and tour the sandstone storage cave, carved in 1882.

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September 2023

Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
September 3rd, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

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Fall Festival
September 9th, 11:00 am5:00 pm

 

 

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Goods Natured Kids: Monarch Migration Magic!
$18
$15/members
September 12th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

September Topic: Monarch Migration Magic!
Join us as we say adios and good luck to the butterflies that will be migrating south to Mexico for the winter. Learn about why they head south and the challenges they will face during this magical migration.  If we are lucky, we may even get to tag a butterfly before sending it on its way!

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Critter Spotlight - Insects & Creepy Crawlies
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
September 17th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Insect are preparing for winter - some are migrating, some are packing pollen, some are laying next spring's eggs. Grab a net to catch and release some of these incredible critters to study up close.

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October 2023

Critter Spotlight - Insects & Creepy Crawlies
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
October 1st, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Insect are preparing for winter - some are migrating, some are packing pollen, some are laying next spring's eggs. Grab a net to catch and release some of these incredible critters to study up close.

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Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
October 8th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

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Homeschool Class: Plankton Classification, Ages 11-14
$9/student

Register online.
October 9th, 9:30 am11:15 am

Students will learn microscope basics and have time to practice with prepared slides before moving on to the amazing world of microorganisms within a drop of water.  Collecting a sample, preparing a wet mount slide, observation, sorting, & classifying skills will be emphasized.

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Homeschool Class: Aquatic Food Webs, Ages 8-10
$9/student

Register online.
October 9th, 9:30 am11:15 am

Students will use physical and chemical tests, as well as biological indicators, to determine if the Quarry Hill pond is “healthy”.  This class includes an examination of the fish life in the pond as they try their hand at fishing from the pond bridge as well. 

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Homeschool Class: What is a Scientist? Ages 5-7
$9/student

Register online.
October 9th, 9:30 am11:15 am

Students will practice the science skills of observation, measurement and asking questions.  A puppet show, observation hike and tree measurement activities will be included.  

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Good Natured Kids - All About Apples
$18
$15/members
October 10th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

October Topic: All About Apples
Apples juicy, apples round, on the tree or on the ground. Apples crunchy, apples sweet, apples are so good to eat! Join us for crafts, games and adventure as we explore all about apples one of nature’s most delicious treats!

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Creatures of the Night
$10/person

Tickets Here
October 20th, 4:30 pm8:00 pm

Quarry Hill creatures lurk about in the night. They are friendly and funny with just a bit of fright.

Join us in the park for a family friendly evening by the campfire. Encounter costumed creatures - a turkey, deer, coyote, & spider, each with a tale to tell about their night life. They are friendly and funny with just a touch of fright.

Following the program, experience twists and turns on a self-guided walk, spying hidden objects in forest. Bring your flashlight!

The evening wraps up with take home treats delivered by an eight-legged friend!

  • Choose a time slot: 4:30, 5:00, 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00
  • Event lasts approximately 1 hour.
  • Event is all outdoors and will be held in light rain, snow or cold.
  • Participants will walk along along a 1/2 mile self-guided, unpaved trail and be seated for a 15 minute program.
  • Trail is not stroller or wheelchair friendly.
  • No pets allowed

Participants should bring flashlight for time slots after dark. A take home treat will be provided.1 ticket admits 1 person (24 months and older). Tickets are non-refundable.

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Creatures of the Night
$10/person

Tickets Here
October 21st, 4:30 pm8:00 pm

Quarry Hill creatures lurk about in the night. They are friendly and funny with just a bit of fright.

Join us in the park for a family friendly evening by the campfire. Encounter costumed creatures - a turkey, deer, coyote, & spider, each with a tale to tell about their night life. They are friendly and funny with just a touch of fright.

Following the program, experience twists and turns on a self-guided walk, spying hidden objects in forest. Bring your flashlight!

The evening wraps up with take home treats delivered by an eight-legged friend!

  • Choose a time slot: 4:30, 5:00, 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00
  • Event lasts approximately 1 hour.
  • Event is all outdoors and will be held in light rain, snow or cold.
  • Participants will walk along along a 1/2 mile self-guided, unpaved trail and be seated for a 15 minute program.
  • Trail is not stroller or wheelchair friendly.
  • No pets allowed

Participants should bring flashlight for time slots after dark. A take home treat will be provided.1 ticket admits 1 person (24 months and older). Tickets are non-refundable.

read more
Critter Spotlight - Totally Turtles
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
October 22nd, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Nine Minnesota species and 13 scutes on every one; we are going "Totally Turtles" during this program all about these unique reptiles.

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November 2023

Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
November 5th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

read more
Good Natured Kids - Nuts about Squirrels
$18
$15/members
November 14th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

November Topic: Nuts about Squirrels
Get ready to get squirrelly as we learn about Minnesota’s different tree squirrels and their acrobatic stunts.  We’ll even learn how to “talk” with the squirrels! Nutty games, seed buffets, and hiking await you on this forest adventure.

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Critter Spotlight: Bats
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
November 19th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

The animal residents who live in Quarry Hill Park are amazing. Join us to bust the myths about an often misunderstood and feared mammal, Bats! Echolocation, keen sense of smell and the ability to eat 500 mosquitoes in an hour -  bats are amazing and beneficial! 

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December 2023

Bird Banding Program
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
December 3rd, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

Flock to Quarry Hill and experience birds up-close while taking part in the Nature Center's bird banding program. Learn why birds are banded and how bird banding helps with conservation. Then get up-close when you learn how to safely trap, handle and release wild birds! The data gathered from these birds will be submitted to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Enrollment is limited.

read more
Good Natured Kids - Time to Sleep
$18
$15/members
December 12th, 9:30 am11:00 am

Offered for 3 & 4 year old kids with an accompanying grown up, these classes are all about getting outdoors to explore, learn and connect to the natural world. New topics monthly. 

December Topic: Time to Sleep
With December comes the deep sleep know as hibernation. Come learn about what animals choose to sleep out the winter season here and just how they prepare for this deepest sleep. This class will also take us underground to explore who might be sleeping in the Quarry Hill cave!

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Critter Spotlight: Silly Over Snakes
$4
Free for members
Tickets Here
December 17th, 1:30 pm2:30 pm

There are seven native Minnesota snake species at the nature center. From flexible jaws to smelling with their tongue, snakes are charming! Slither in and coil up while a naturalist introduces you to a variety of snakes and their scaly goodness.

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January 2024

February 2024

March 2024

Homeschool Class: Soil Sleuths, Ages 8-10
$9/student

Register online.
March 25th, 9:03 am10:48 am

The “Soil Chef” will help students understand the difference between soil & dirt and give the recipe for soil.  Students will hike to the QH sandstone cave and also sift & sort soil samples into their components.  

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Homeschool Class: Know it Owl, Ages 5-7
$9/student

Register online.
March 25th, 9:03 am10:48 am

Just what is a raptor?  Students will examine and study this special group of birds.  They will learn what makes an owl such a successful predator: silent feathers, powerful talons, and incredible senses. 

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Homeschool Class: Karst Geology, Ages 11-14
$9/student

Register online.
March 25th, 9:30 am11:15 am

Students will work at hands-on experiment stations to learn about the geology under our feet and how our limestone bedrock forms caves and affects groundwater quality.

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April 2024

May 2024

June 2024

July 2024

August 2024

September 2024

October 2024

November 2024

December 2024