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Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen

4.8
·39 reviews·Sandwich, United States

A charming nature center and jam kitchen celebrating Thornton Burgess, with beautiful gardens, wildlife, and delicious homemade treats.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, 9 AM - 3:30 PM

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Home and Museum

Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen

Best Time

Weekdays, 9 AM - 3:30 PM

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming nature center and jam kitchen celebrating Thornton Burgess, with beautiful gardens, wildlife, and delicious homemade treats.

4.8
(39 reviews)

"Absolutely gorgeous garden and museum to visit. Definitely recommend stopping by here."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Car is Essential

You'll need a car to reach the center. Parking is available.

💳 Payment Methods

Note that they do not accept cash for purchases; credit card reader issues have been reported.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wildflower Garden & Trails

Wildflower Garden & Trails

Outdoor grounds

Wander through a beautiful garden with storybook trails, perfect for families and nature lovers.

Jam Kitchen & Mercantile

Jam Kitchen & Mercantile

Indoor shop

Sample and purchase delicious homemade jams, honeys, and unique gifts in a charming setting.

Discovery Center & Library

Discovery Center & Library

Indoor exhibits

Engage with nature exhibits, learn about local wildlife, and explore a cozy library with a focus on Thornton Burgess.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Donation-Based Entry

While admission is donation-based, consider contributing generously to support this gem. Many visitors rave about the value they receive, from peaceful gardens to engaging exhibits. Check their hours before you go, as they are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Instagram+1

Plan for Jam-Making Fun

If you're keen on the jam-making experience, remember it requires advance registration and scheduling. It's a unique opportunity to step back in time and create your own delicious preserves. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, 9 AM - 3:30 PM
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday mornings
Why
Lively atmosphere, good for families
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Greenbrier Ghost story :-)))
@denitabarr
54.3K likes • 278.1K views

🚗 Car is Essential

You'll need a car to reach the center. Parking is available. Instagram

💳 Payment Methods

Note that they do not accept cash for purchases; credit card reader issues have been reported. Reddit

My first time trying beef wellington at The Greenbrier in Gatlinburg, Tennessee! @Gordon Ramsay #beefwellington #gatlinburg #gatlinburgtennessee #RestaurantReview #pigeonforge #lambshank #steaktiktok #gordonramsay #thegreenbrier
@5tfumatthew
50.7K likes • 467.6K views
Member Spotlight: Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen @greenbriarmercantile Such a beautiful place to enjoy nature! There are scenic walking trails, a charming gift shop stocked with delicious jams and marmalades, and a fun discovery center for kids. You can even learn all about the animals that live in your own backyard. #NatureWalks #FamilyFun #ExploreOutdoors #NatureLovers #GiftShopFi...
sandwichcapecod
18 likes • 291 views

🧸 Toddler Playroom

A cute indoor play area for toddlers has a small fee per child. Reddit

📚 History & Nature Focus

Ideal for history buffs and nature enthusiasts, especially fans of Thornton Burgess. Reddit

We love this spot! The Greenbriar Nature Museum & Jam Kitchen is such a unique find. It is free to visit the Nature Center, although donations are accepted. 🌷Take a stroll through the Wildflower Garden 🪷 Check out The Smiling Pool - We saw some 🦢 & 🐢 📚 Explore the library 🎨Make a craft 🍬 Visit the adorable mercantile shop 🌳 Walk the trails around the property 🧺 Bring a snack to enjoy at the...
exploringthesouthcoast
11 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Car is Essential

You'll need a car to reach the center. Parking is available. Instagram

💳 Payment Methods

Note that they do not accept cash for purchases; credit card reader issues have been reported. Reddit

🧸 Toddler Playroom

A cute indoor play area for toddlers has a small fee per child. Reddit

📚 History & Nature Focus

Ideal for history buffs and nature enthusiasts, especially fans of Thornton Burgess. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

The gardens, pond, and wildflowers offer lovely spots for photos. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(39 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and engaging nature exhibits. The homemade jams and unique gifts from the mercantile are a significant draw, and the connection to Thornton Burgess's legacy adds a charming, nostalgic element. While some note that certain activities require advance booking and payment methods can be inconsistent, the overall experience is highly recommended for families and nature lovers.

"Really enjoyable experience at the Jam Day event!!! So peaceful, and the jam was phenomenal!

I love the library and history room too!"

Kristy Johnson

"Absolutely gorgeous garden and museum to visit. I visited during the Hydrangea Garden Tour. I'm so happy I was able to visit this spot. The gift shop is awesome, and the lady there was so helpful, and she helped me pick out the next book I am going to be reading, which is all about Thorton Burgess. I can't wait to start it. The garden is absolutely beautiful, and I love how the trails have the storybook along the path. Great place to go with the whole family. Definitely recommend stopping by here."

Janet Stiles

"We went on a Saturday morning. This is a nice area for small, quiet gatherings to sit in the open and admire nature. There are two areas in which you can sit by the water and watch the turtles. They have a library and a story time for kids along with a craft area (we were not there for that, and it has a fee). There are opportunities to make your own jam in an old-fashioned kitchen. However, it requires registration and scheduling. The gift shop features many unique items relative to the author, Thomas Burgess, of the Peter Cottontail stories. No cash is accepted for purchases, and there were issues with their "Square" credit card reader."

Tina Haight

What People Like

Peaceful gardens and trails
Delicious homemade jams
Thornton Burgess connection

What People Dislike

Credit card reader issues
Activities need booking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen is located at 6 Discovery Hill Rd, East Sandwich, MA. A car is necessary for access, and there is a good-sized parking lot available. Instagram

Public transportation options are limited in this area of Cape Cod, making a car the most convenient way to reach the center. Instagram

While specific directions depend on your starting point, the center is situated in East Sandwich, MA. Using a GPS or mapping service is recommended. Instagram

Yes, there is a good-sized parking lot available for visitors at the Green Briar Nature Center. Instagram

Visiting without a car can be challenging due to the location. It's best to arrange for a ride or consider a taxi service if you are unable to drive. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Nature Center is donation-based, meaning you can contribute what you feel is appropriate. Donations are accepted and appreciated to support the center's operations. Instagram+1

The Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen is typically open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. They are closed on Sundays and Mondays, and also for a period around the holidays. Instagram+1

For general admission, no advance booking is required as it's donation-based. However, specific activities like jam-making require advance registration and scheduling. Reddit

Yes, some activities like the indoor play area for toddlers have a small fee per child. Jam-making sessions also require registration and may have associated costs. Reddit

No, the center does not accept cash for purchases in the mercantile. They primarily use a credit card system, though there have been reports of issues with their card reader. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can explore scenic walking trails, a beautiful wildflower garden, and a pond with turtles. Inside, there's a discovery center with nature exhibits, a library, a craft area, and a mercantile shop selling jams and gifts. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, there's an indoor play area for toddlers (with a fee), story time, and craft opportunities. The storybook trails outside are also engaging for kids. InstagramReddit

You might spot turtles in the pond and rabbits on display inside the center. The nature exhibits also provide information about local fauna. InstagramReddit

The Jam Kitchen is where jams are made and sold in the mercantile. The actual jam-making experience for visitors requires advance registration and scheduling. Reddit

Yes, the center has clean restrooms available for visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The mercantile shop offers a variety of delicious homemade jams, honeys, and other unique goods. While there isn't a full restaurant, these items make for great snacks or souvenirs. Reddit

Yes, you can participate in jam-making sessions, but this requires advance registration and scheduling. It's an old-fashioned kitchen experience. Reddit

Visitors highly recommend the wildflower and blueberry whipped honeys. Many also praise the phenomenal jam made during events like Jam Day. Reddit

The center is described as a nice area for small, quiet gatherings to sit in the open and admire nature, suggesting some informal seating or open spaces suitable for picnics. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, the presence of open spaces for quiet gatherings suggests that bringing your own food for a picnic might be acceptable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The gardens, pond, wildflowers, and scenic trails provide numerous beautiful spots for photography. InstagramReddit

The wildflower garden, the pond with turtles, and the storybook trails are particularly picturesque. The charming mercantile also offers unique photo subjects. InstagramReddit

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage within the indoor exhibits or mercantile. Instagram

You can photograph the turtles in the pond and the rabbits on display inside. Please be respectful and avoid disturbing the animals. InstagramReddit

There are no specific mentions of drone photography restrictions, but it's advisable to check with the center directly or adhere to general local regulations regarding drone usage in public spaces. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Green Briar Nature Center is a fantastic spot for families. The indoor play area for toddlers is a hit, offering a safe and fun space for little ones to explore (note the small fee per child). Reddit The storybook trails outside are also a wonderful way to engage children with nature and literature, bringing Thornton Burgess's characters to life. InstagramReddit

Beyond the play area, kids can enjoy story time and craft activities. The chance to see rabbits and turtles adds an exciting element of wildlife discovery. The donation-based admission makes it an accessible outing for families looking for an educational and enjoyable experience without a hefty price tag. Reddit

📚 History Buffs & Book Lovers

For those who appreciate history and literature, Green Briar Nature Center is a must-visit. It's dedicated to the legacy of Thornton W. Burgess, a prolific author of children's books. You can explore the library and history room to learn more about his life, work, and the natural world he so lovingly depicted. Reddit

The center's connection to Burgess's stories makes the outdoor trails particularly engaging, as they often incorporate elements from his beloved tales. The gift shop also offers a selection of books and merchandise related to the author, allowing you to deepen your connection to his literary world. Reddit

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts

Nature lovers will find plenty to admire at Green Briar. The wildflower garden is a highlight, offering a beautiful and serene environment to explore. The walking trails provide a gentle way to connect with the local flora and fauna. InstagramReddit

Keep an eye out for wildlife like turtles in the pond and the rabbits on display. The center's focus on local nature and its preservation makes it an inspiring destination for anyone who enjoys the outdoors and learning about the natural world. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Thornton Burgess

The Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen is deeply connected to the beloved children's author Thornton Burgess, creator of Peter Rabbit, Reddy Fox, and other woodland characters. The center is part of the Thornton W. Burgess Society, dedicated to preserving his legacy and promoting nature education. Visitors can explore exhibits that celebrate his life and work, and the storybook trails outside are inspired by his tales, making it a magical experience for fans and newcomers alike. InstagramReddit

The library and history room offer a quiet space to delve deeper into Burgess's stories and the natural world he so vividly described. It's a place where children can connect with classic literature and learn about the animals that inhabit their own backyards, fostering a love for nature and reading. Reddit

Many visitors, especially those familiar with Burgess's work, find the center to be a nostalgic and heartwarming destination. The gift shop also features many unique items related to the author, allowing you to take a piece of his world home with you. Reddit

A Taste of Tradition: Jam Making

One of the most unique offerings at the Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen is the opportunity to participate in old-fashioned jam making. This hands-on experience allows visitors to step back in time and learn the art of preserving fruits, just as it was done in earlier eras. It's a chance to connect with culinary traditions and create something delicious to take home. Reddit

While the jam-making sessions require advance registration and scheduling, they are highly recommended for those seeking an immersive experience. The jams and honeys sold in the mercantile are also a major draw, with visitors frequently praising their phenomenal taste. Popular choices include the wildflower and blueberry whipped honeys, making the mercantile a must-visit for foodies. Reddit

Even if you don't participate in a jam-making session, the mercantile shop itself is a delightful place to explore. It's stocked with a variety of unique items, and the staff are often noted for being helpful in assisting visitors with their selections. InstagramReddit

Nature's Embrace: Gardens and Wildlife

The outdoor spaces at Green Briar Nature Center are a significant attraction, offering a peaceful retreat into nature. The wildflower garden is particularly noted for its beauty, providing a vibrant and picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. These gardens, along with the small pond, create a serene environment perfect for quiet contemplation and enjoying the natural beauty of Cape Cod. InstagramReddit

The walking trails are short but charming, often featuring elements inspired by Thornton Burgess's stories, making them engaging for all ages. Visitors can enjoy spotting wildlife, such as turtles in the pond and rabbits on display inside the center. These natural elements contribute to the center's mission of fostering an appreciation for the environment. InstagramReddit

These outdoor areas are also highlighted as excellent photo opportunities, with the colorful gardens and tranquil pond providing picturesque backdrops. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the natural surroundings and capture beautiful memories. InstagramReddit

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