From March 24-April 23, celebrate nature in our newest outdoor space!

This spring, bring your wild things to Wander Woods for a bouquet of science programs, games, and demonstrations that will connect your family to the beauty, wonder, and whimsy of the natural world.

Special guest programs

Riveropolis

Build a boat at this winding water table with multiple elevation changes—perfect for kids and adults to design, tinker, and explore the physics of water. Daily, 10 am-4 pm; East Garden.

Song of the Salmon

In this adventure-filled puppet show, you’ll journey upriver with a cute cast of characters to learn about salmon’s important role in the health of California ecosystems. Daily, 11 am; East Garden.

California Connected

Touch a real California condor wing, put your senses to the test with a tactile guessing game, and discover the incredible diversity of our state. Daily, 11 am-4:30 pm; Naturalist Center.

Daily pop-up programs

Venture out to the East Garden between 10 am and 4 pm daily for some fresh air and interactive science fun.

Nature Arcade: For these two self-guided games, no special equipment is required—just your body! Test your balance on a “spider web” and play “critter cornhole” to help a woodpecker and a salamander score some treats.

Insect Investigation: Insects are awesome! Learn how to collect insects safely using tools you can find at the Academy and in your own backyard or local park.

Create With Nature: Nature is an incredible artist. So are you! Create unique works of art and engineering using natural items like pinecones, leaves, and stones.

Water Play: Little ones ages 0-5 will enjoy experimenting with water through inventive interactive installations.