Facility Closure
John Janzen Nature Centre remains closed indefinitely due to significant flooding that happened in April due to a broken water pipe. Where possible, programs have been moved to other available locations.
Make learning an organic process. From Jurassic forests to the backyard, the John Janzen Nature Centre has plenty of programs, courses and camps designed to get children engaged and interested in the natural world around them.
School and Group Programs
Discover Edmonton's natural environment and its animal inhabitants through engaging exhibits and programs. Learn about local ecosystems and how they function.
Drop-in Programs
Some drop-in activities are led by the drop-in interpreter and others are self-guided. Please check the activity schedule board outside the Exhibit Room to see which activities the interpreter is leading and at what time. We invite you to speak with the drop-in interpreter:
- About what they have planned for the day
- To find out more about any self-guided activities available to you
- To let them know if you have any suggestions or requests
Note: Drop-in activities are included in your admission.
Drop-in activities might include learning more about the Exhibit Room animals, trying out a craft inspired by nature, playing a fun game, joining us for story time or exploring the trails and prairie pond.
Many of our drop-in activities take place outdoors, so please come dressed for the weather.
Adult participation is required when participating in drop-in activities with children.
Self Guided Activities
The John Janzen Nature Centre provides opportunities for self-guided visits for both individuals and group visitors of all ages.
A self-guided visit means you are visiting with your group (for example, daycare, club, youth group or classroom) without a nature centre staff person facilitating a program for you.
If you are interested in visiting us with your group, please call 311 (outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311). Regular admission rates apply.
Note: if there are public drop-in programs occurring the day of your visit, you are welcome to participate, but please respect that other drop-in visitors will be taking part as well.
Nature Walks
Enjoy a self-guided hike on 4 kilometres of interpretive nature trails through some of the most interesting river valley scenery in Edmonton.
Enjoy a short stroll through paper birch and trembling aspen where beaked hazelnut and dogwood shrubs flourish. This 20-minute loop winds behind the nature centre along the river valley bank - some steep sections may be a concern for those with limited mobility.
Many local tree and shrub species can be found along this trail that loops around Fort Edmonton Park. The hillside section of this multi-use and paved trail starts at the Nature Centre and leads to the Fort Edmonton footbridge. The riverside section parallels the bank of the North Saskatchewan River. Some steep sections may be a challenge for those with limited mobility.
Plan your hike with a Trail Map, or pick one up at Guest Services.
Interested in Other Self-guided Tours?
Explore our other attractions and facilities.
Discover John Janzen
Learn about the many exhibits and other exciting activities available for you, your family or group.
Contact Us
John Janzen Nature Centre
7000-143 Street
Whitemud Drive and Fox Drive
Shared parking lot with Fort Edmonton Park
Email artsattractionsbookings@edmonton.ca
Phone 311 | Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311