‘Tree pods, play areas, ground trails, sensory stations, adventure nets, water cycle activities, wetland, and floating walkways set to open summer 2016.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History in a press release Friday announced expansion plans of nearly 75 acres of “outdoor experiences” set to open in summer 2016.
“We are thrilled to expand our offerings with this new outdoor attraction. This is a rare opportunity to connect our visitors with a truly authentic nature experience, right here inside the city,” Susan Neugent, Fernbank president and CEO, said in the release.
“This is the most significant development at Fernbank since the Museum opened, and we can’t wait for our visitors to experience this fun and invigorating encounter with nature.”
The new outdoor adventure experience will occupy the 10 acres of mature woodlands behind the Museum’s terrace overlook, according to the release, and will open in conjunction with increased access to the 65-acre forest.
Construction for the outdoor adventure will not impact Fernbank Forest, where the Museum is currently leading a research-based restoration that includes removal of more than 45 harmful invasive species and restoration of many native species that have largely disappeared.
The outdoor expansion will offer new experiences including “dramatic tree pods, imaginative play areas, immersive ground trails, unique sensory stations, elevated adventure nets, hands-on water cycle activities, a restored wetland, and ‘floating’ walkways.”
Fernbank’s outdoor expansion will be included with museum admission at no extra charge and will be free for Museum Members.
