Gather trail maps, meet up for tours and visit with nature enthusiast volunteers at the visitor's center.

What to expect at Armand Bayou Nature Center

While Armand Bayou Nature Center offers over 5 miles of trails, the Discovery Loop is by far our favorite for exploring with kids. The adventure begins at the brand-new Hana Ginzbarg Welcome Center, where thoughtful exhibits introduce the history of the site and prepare you for the wonders ahead. From there, the trail winds along a beautiful elevated boardwalk through the Wetlands and Forest, offering plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including adorable ambassador animals like Jam the opossum and Texas tortoises.

Be sure to stop by the Environmental Learning Center along the way to get up close with live reptiles, fish, and amphibians. Next, head to the interactive John P. McGovern Children’s Discovery Area, which is a big hit with the little ones. After that, take in the stunning views from the Prairie Platform, where you’ll see the restored Coastal tall-grass prairie in all its glory.

The trail concludes at an authentic 1800s farm site, followed by the Bison Viewing Platform. Two majestic bison call Armand Bayou Nature Center home, and getting a close-up view of these impressive creatures is a truly unique and educational experience.

Other Activities at Armand Bayou Nature Center

Beyond exploring the DIscovery Loop, Armand Bayou Nature Center offers a variety of outdoor adventures. The Bayou Safari Tour takes you through the wetlands, where you might spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.

For families who love being on the water, the Kayak Tours provide a more active way to experience the bayou, while the Pontoon Boat Cruises offer a relaxing ride with beautiful views. Kids who love animals will enjoy the Animal Encounters, where they can see some of the center’s rescued wildlife up close. If you’re looking for something unique, the Bat Hike is a fun way to experience the trails at dusk and watch bats take flight.

These activities can be booked in advance, but be sure to check age requirements before planning your trip!

A plethora of plants provides a beautiful area of exploration for kids and adults alike.

Kids can get hands-on and experiment with loom weaving on the front porch of the farmhouse.

Shade trees and benches provide a break from the heat along the trails.

Know Before You Go to Armand Bayou Nature Center

• There’s plenty of shade and places to stop and rest along the trails, but make sure you dress appropriately for the weather, bring your sunscreen and a water bottle. If it’s recently rained, it can get muddy along some parts of the trails and you’ll want to bring along mosquito spray just in case.
• The trails are smooth enough for strollers if you have younger kids who might not be up for a lot of walking.
• Restrooms are located in two spots on the main trail, Discovery Loop, where all of the exhibits are located.
• Pets, smoking, alcohol, and picnicking are prohibited. If you do want to pack a lunch or snack for after your visit to Armand Bayou, Bay Area Park is a great picnic spot less than a mile drive away with tables, clean restrooms, and two playgrounds.
• Hours of operation are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, and noon-5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is FREE for children 3 and under, $5 for kids 4-12 and seniors, and $7 for adults. 

For more information, visit the Armand Bayou Nature Center website.

All photos by Ashley Jones