Nature
Center
PROGRAMS
Programs and Space for our Community to come together
Lafayette Nature Center Experiences
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Child & Caregiver Programs: Nature Together
Nature play programs for caregivers and their young children to play, explore, connect, and grow in community.
For children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.
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Field Trip Program: Nature's Recipe
Hands-on field trips immerse students in Colorado’s ecosystems. Practice observation, build confidence outdoors, and discover how people, plants, and animals are all connected.
For grades K-5.
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Nature's Workshop: Community Events & Classes
From workshops to Nature Center Saturdays and special events, our programs create opportunities for our community to explore, connect with nature, and grow.
Open to all ages.
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After-School Program: Thorne Nature Club
Dive into hands-on, project-based learning that builds environmental stewardship and deepens nature connection.
For 3rd and 4th-grade students.
Come Visit us
Lafayette Nature Center
300 Old Laramie Trail E
Lafayette, CO 80026
Free to visit and open to the community from dawn to dusk year-round.
About the Center
The Lafayette Nature Center is a community hub where everyone can come together and enjoy nature. Whether you love climbing, digging, swinging, sliding, or simply relaxing in the fresh air, the Nature Center has something fun for everyone.
Highlights & FEATURES
Outdoor play and learning spaces, including nature playgrounds with features like sandpits with water, log structures, loose parts for building, and a nature-themed swing and slide.
Community gathering spaces with two first-come, first-served pavilions with picnic tables (one with electrical outlets and BBQ grill), and field space.
Connecting trail to nearby Coal Creek Open Space, an incredible natural area with giant cottonwood groves, abundant flora and fauna, and year-round access to water exploration.
Plan Your Visit
Hours: Open to the public from dawn to dusk year-round
Nature play areas and pavilions may be closed when in use by Thorne. The public is still welcome to visit at this time, but some areas may be unavailable if our groups are using them. Check our events calendar for availability.
Facilities:
On-site public restroom and drinking fountain
The Lafayette Nature Center is an outdoor center and does not have indoor exhibits
To keep the LNC safe for the community, please note the following:
No pets allowed
Please plan to pack out all trash. There are no public waste bins.
For more information about visiting the Lafayette Nature Center, email info@thornenature.org or call 303.499.3647 x100.
Upcoming events
Discover upcoming events, key program dates, and LNC availability. Check back regularly, new events are added from time to time.