Family Nature Explorers Programs for 2026

Join us at a new learning station in the Gardens, Meadow, or Nature Walk each month. Whether we're searching for wildlife, using microscopes, creating a craft, or conducting experiments, we'll have a ton of fun as we discover the wonders of nature.

Ages | For all ages with an adult (3 years & up recommended)
Time | 1:00 – 3:00 pm
(Drop-in anytime and allow at least 20-30 minutes at the learning stations. Then, be directed to continue learning on the property with a self-guided activity.)
Fee | FREE for Members; non-members are free with paid garden admission
No registration required; check in at the Admissions/Check-in Building
Contact Caroline Graf at 410-557-9570 x261 or cgraf@ladewgardens.com.

Saturday, April 18: Nature’s Recyclers
Let’s discover how nutrients are recycled in nature! Take part in experiments and crafts to uncover the ways plants, animals, and fungi recycle nutrients.

 Saturday, May 9: Poems in The Portico

Paper, pen, and you
Create your own masterpiece
In a sweet Haiku

Bring your poet’s cap and join us in the gardens to create and decorate your own poems. Learn Haiku structure and use inspiration from Ladew’s beautiful gardens to create your own.

Saturday, June 13: Reptile Rendezvous

Slimy? No. Scary? No. Scaley? Yes! Drop in to explore the world of reptiles and meet a few scaley friends up close.  

 Saturday, July 25: Pond Life
Spring has sprung and the ponds are jumping with lots of activity. Come along as we scoop the garden ponds in search of tadpoles, dragonfly babies and more..

 Saturday, August 22: Magical Meadows
The meadows are buzzing with life all around us. Join us as we use sweep nets to ID and observe the different insects that call Ladew home.

 Saturday, September 19: Backyard Birds
Soar over to Ladew as we celebrate the many amazing characteristics of birds! The learning station will be overlooking our meadow with views of hawks, Eastern Bluebirds, Goldfinches and more. Then we will send you on a scavenger hunt to the bird blind for up close encounters with common backyard birds..