Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center

Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center offers discover nature programs for all ages, school programs, scouts programs, and weekly activities. Visitors can meet live animals, explore interactive exhibits, learn about the natural and cultural history of nearby Dora Kelley Nature Park, and explore the trails at Dora Kelley Nature Park with the Nature Trail Map. The schedule includes Wednesday story time, Animal Brunch on Thursdays, and Animal Meet & Greet on Fridays, all starting at 11 a.m.

Programs

• Discover nature programs — all ages · Designed to help visitors explore, learn, and connect with the outdoors. Includes wildlife and environmental education, family activities, and hands-on fun.
• School Programs — school programs · Bring the Nature Center to your classroom with engaging, interactive programs aligned with Virginia's Standards of Learning.
• Scouts Programs — $50 · Troops bring their own badge or award. The Nature Center provides the activities and materials and schedules a time that works for you. $50/troop up to 15 kids ($5/extra kid).
• Wednesday story time — Wednesdays starting at 11 a.m. · A short story in the library.
• Animal Brunch — Thursdays starting at 11 a.m. · Watch animal ambassadors snack on their favorite foods.
• Animal Meet & Greet — Fridays starting at 11 a.m. · Get to know the Nature Center's animal residents.

At a glance

• Ages: 0–18 years old
• Price range: $50
• General schedule: Weekdays at the Nature Center; Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays starting at 11 a.m.
• Facility hours: W-Sa: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

About the provider

Jerome “Buddie” Ford worked for the City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities for 47 years. The leadership team includes Center Director Coline Hay and Environmental Educator Paige Edwards. The Nature Center also lists volunteer opportunities for ages 16 and up, including Visitor Experience and Teen Outreach roles.

• Volunteer Opportunities — ages 16 and up · Available at the Nature Center, including Visitor Experience and Teen Outreach roles. Group opportunities are also available by request.

Guest & Youth Safety Policy: Teens 13–17 must be supervised by an adult (18+) unless a Teen Registration Form is on file. Children 12 & under must be with an adult at all times. Guests 13+ must show a photo ID.

Last updated October 27, 2026.