John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove
A small but lively museum, on a site that holds the first American home of Haitian-born artist and naturalist John James Audubon (1785–1851), captures the wonders of the avian world and the need to protect it, as well as Audubon's mission to paint North America's birds. Kid-friendly interactive exhibits explore nests, birdsongs, feathers, and more; exhibits about Audubon's artistic process (with a copy of his massive Birds of America) will appeal to older children and adults. Outside, there's a bird-themed outdoor play space. Admission includes a tour (sign up at center for the one tour, at 1 pm) of Mill Grove, Audubon's stone farmhouse, built in 1762 and filled with displays relating to Audubon. Managed by the National Audubon Society, this site 2 miles north of Valley Forge National Historical Park is within the 200-acre Mill Grove estate and has 5 miles of marked walking trails. The center also offers birding sessions and other outdoor programs.
