In the spirited and enchanting state of North Carolina, where the Blue Ridge Mountains kiss the sky and the Atlantic Ocean whispers to the sandy shores, there exists a bustling community of child nature enthusiasts. They are led by an eccentric and lovable character named Peculiar Pete, a mythical possum with a floppy straw hat and a penchant for belly laughs. His fur, a mix of gray and white, shimmers like stardust under the warm Carolina sun. Pete, is not your typical possum. You see, he doesn't play dead; rather, he plays alive! Peculiar Pete and his gang of enthusiastic young adventurers spend their days engaging in all kinds of fun and educational outdoor activities. From climbing the highest peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to spy on the sky hugging hawks, to snorkeling in the shallow waters of the Outer Banks to say hello to the playful dolphins, these kids are never short on excitement. They investigate every nook and cranny of the Great Smoky Mountains, where they gather around Pete, with eyes wide and hearts ablaze, listening to his tales about the legendary Cherokee warriors. Their laughter rings through the lush forests of Pisgah as they race each other to find the most colorful mushrooms, or tumble down sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge, cackling like mad sandpipers. This isn't just a gang of kids, oh no! They are the young knights and sorceresses of nature, armed with binoculars and butterfly nets, their imaginations their most powerful tool. In the wild lands of North Carolina, they learn, they explore, they laugh, and under the watchful eyes of the twinkling stars and the ever-so-cool Peculiar Pete, they thrive.

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best nature programs in Charlotte, NC

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At Art-Kiddo, we are dedicated to helping children discover the world of art through Spanish immersion and bilingual instruction. Our sessions provide a creative and meaningful environment for children to learn and explore. We believe that art is an essential part of a child's development, and our sessions are tailored to enhance social/emotional skills, sensory regulation, motor skills, behavior, and play/leisure skills. Our program is designed to create meaningful experiences and nature/social connections for children. We use a variety of activities to engage children, including Spanish language instruction, art projects, music, and creative play. These activities are designed to help children develop their language and communication skills, as well as foster their creativity. By providing children with the necessary tools to explore art through second-language immersion, we strive to create an environment that is inviting and supportive to each and every child.

Charlotte, NC 28205
4.9(4 reviews)
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At Discovery Place, science is more than just a subject to be learned - it's a way of life. Here, we bring science, nature, and design together in order to create a truly transformative experience. Our interactive educational programming helps our community understand and apply science to their lives. With over 750,000 annual visitors, Discovery Place is fast becoming a hub for science education and exploration in the Carolinas. Our mission goes beyond science education alone. We strive to empower our community to use science as a way to create opportunities, build hope, and bring positive change to the world. We believe that science is the key to a brighter future. By providing an engaging and immersive experience, we aim to inspire people to use science as a tool to create a better tomorrow.

Charlotte, NC 28209
5(5 reviews)
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This exciting addition was inspired by two extraordinary women, Elizabeth and Elizabeth, who lived and gardened on Ridgewood Avenue in Charlotte, North Carolina, just a few generations ago. These two women made Ridgewood Avenue one of the most famous addresses in Southern garden history. The SEED Wildlife & Children’s Garden offers a unique opportunity for guests to learn about the natural environment, appreciate its beauty, and gain a better understanding of how to protect and conserve it. The garden is designed to support children’s exploration and encourage them to learn through play. With interactive elements such as a water table, a sensory garden, and a rain garden, children will have the chance to explore nature and become more aware of its importance. The SEED Wildlife & Children’s Garden is a wonderful way to honor the legacy of Elizabeth and Elizabeth, two extraordinary women who made Ridgewood Avenue in Charlotte, North Carolina one of the most famous addresses in Southern garden history. Through the addition of this outdoor exploration garden, Wing Haven Garden & Bird Sanctuary continues to offer guests the chance to learn about the natural environment and gain a better understanding of how to protect and conserve it.

Charlotte, NC 28209
5(5 reviews)
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Parents, give your child the best of both worlds this summer by sending them to our camp! Our camp is located in a convenient and familiar setting of a country club, allowing your child to have the traditional day camp experience. With a combination of outstanding amenities and exciting programming, your child will be sure to have a summer that they won't forget. Our staff team is experienced and energetic, providing a structured yet fun day camp atmosphere. Make sure your child's summer is an amazing one! Our camp provides the perfect balance of a traditional day camp experience with all the amenities and excitement of the country club. At our camp, your child will be able to take part in exciting programming while still feeling safe and secure in a familiar environment. Our experienced and energetic staff team will ensure that your child has a structured yet fun day camp experience. Treat your child to a summer they won't forget with our unique day camp experience! Our camp is the perfect combination of a traditional day camp experience and the amenities and excitement of the country club. Our experienced and energetic staff team will provide your child with a safe and secure environment while allowing them to enjoy exciting programming. So send your child to our camp for the perfect balance of fun and structure!

Charlotte, NC 28209