Birthday parties at Dodge Nature Center are a terrific experience for kids ages 3 and up. The two-hour party starts with a Dodge naturalist hosting a fun seasonal nature activity, with time at the end for cake and other fun you plan.
Spend the birthday party with a Dodge naturalist doing an activity infused with nature. Your naturalist host will make sure the fun activity is the best fit for the age group and season.
Your celebration includes access to the Schoolhouse where your group can play, eat, and celebrate. The Schoolhouse has electricity, running water, two rectangular tables with bench seating, air conditioning in the summer, and heat in the winter. It does not have a refrigerator or freezer; please bring a cooler as an alternative. The nature center does not provide games, decorations, treats, or entertainment, but you can personalize your event by bringing your own ideas and materials.
Birthday Party Details |
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|---|---|
| Age | Appropriate for ages 3 and up |
| Capacity | 15 children max |
| Cost | $200 |
| Party Times | Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. |
| Party Duration | One hour naturalist-led program, followed by one hour of self-led activities in the Schoolhouse or outside |
| Parking | 24-vehicle lot at 365 Marie Avenue W in West St. Paul, MN 55118 |
| Additional Parking | Street parking on Marie Avenue W |
| COVID-19 Safety | Read our most up-to-date policy on the Visitor Guidelines page. |
| Weather Policy | Dodge Nature Center will modify party programs to keep participants safe when conditions are severe. Reach out to the Naturalist in charge of your party regarding your day of needs and concerns. The naturalist activity is hosted outdoors (with the exception of Reptiles and Amphibians); please dress appropriately for the weather and your experience at the nature center. |
Choose from a variety of themes to fit party goer ages and your birthday season.
Look for scat, tracks, and animal homes, followed by a visit to the pond trying your skills on the kicksleds.
*Available January–February only
Hike Dodge in search of animal homes, tracks, scat, and more.
Discover the critters that live in water at the Dodge ponds.
Hike to the barn to learn about farm life and meet the barn animals.
Explore the prairie using sweep nets and hike around Dodge to find some of Minnesota's smallest residents.
Get to know your animal neighbors! Be a detective as you inspect animal artifacts and meet some Minnesota wildlife.
Meet camouflaged critters and learn all about how wild animals hide in plain sight! Play outdoor versions of hide-and-seek using animal tricks.
Climb "Challenge Hill," build forts, and explore the woods.
Get up close and personal with tromping turtles, hopping frogs, and slithering snakes. This is an indoor activity.
Learn how to build shelters and fires for survival situations. Bring hot dogs to roast over the fire for lunch.
