Lego
1 / 10

Stamford Museum and Nature Center

4.6
·341 reviews·Stamford, United States

A charming nature center with farm animals, otters, scenic trails, and art exhibits in Stamford, CT.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Lego

Stamford Museum and Nature Center

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming nature center with farm animals, otters, scenic trails, and art exhibits in Stamford, CT.

4.6
(341 reviews)

"Beautiful and fun place to visit with lots to do for everyone! Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Gate Admission Fees

Pay at the gate upon arrival. Fees apply per person, with free entry for children 3 and under.

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be exploring trails and grounds, so wear comfy shoes!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Farm Animals

Farm Animals

Farmyard

Meet friendly cows, sheep, and other farm animals. A hit with kids and adults alike!

Instagram
Otter Exhibit

Otter Exhibit

Wildlife Pond

Watch the playful antics of the resident otters – a crowd favorite!

Reddit
Nature Trails & Boardwalks

Nature Trails & Boardwalks

Various trails

Explore scenic walking paths and a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk through diverse habitats.

Instagram
Bendel Mansion Museum

Bendel Mansion Museum

Bendel Mansion

Discover rotating art exhibits and historical displays in a beautiful setting.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit: Admission & Hours

Entry fees are collected at the gate upon arrival, with options for cash or card payment. Prices vary for adults, children, students, and those under 3 are free. Check the official website for current hours, as they can change seasonally. TikTok

Best Times to Avoid Crowds

Weekdays, especially mornings, tend to be less crowded than weekends. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to enjoy a more peaceful experience with the animals and exhibits. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Farmers Market buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Special Events
Why
Unique seasonal activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Stamford Museum & Nature Center, Stamford, CT @stamford_museum_naturecenter • Payment is taken as your driving into the center and it’s $14 per adult, $8 for children ages 4-17, $10 for students ages 18+, and children 3 and under are free. The grounds are beautiful with a gorgeous pond and plenty of benches and picnic tables scattered throughout. As you’re walking from the parking lot if you go ...
mommystodolist
116 likes • 6.8K views

🚗 Gate Admission Fees

Pay at the gate upon arrival. Fees apply per person, with free entry for children 3 and under. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be exploring trails and grounds, so wear comfy shoes! Reddit

Last night, David and I had the pleasure of visiting the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, where David was honored as part of their Evening With series. It was a truly special evening - I couldn’t be more proud to see David in the company of past honorees like Jacques Pépin, Lidia Bastianich, and Jeffrey Zacharian. It’s a legacy I know we both hope to live up to. We are thrilled to have had the opp...
kathleenstandridge
79 likes • 1.1K views
Bevs & Bites 2025! Stamford Museum and Nature Center. 39 Scofieldtown Road. Tickets available at the door! @bevmax_official #bevsandbites
stamford_museum_naturecenter
42 likes • 1.4K views

🍎 Farmers Market Sundays

Don't miss the Sunday farmers market for local treats like apple cider donuts! Instagram

🦉 Nocturnal Animal Shows

Check schedules for special programs, like learning about nocturnal animals. Instagram

Went to Stamford Museum and Nature Center the other day and saw this beauty! So gorgeous! 🐄❤️#highlandcow #stamfordmuseumandnaturecenter #authorlife #scotlanddreams
authorjackiekillelea
6 likes • 87 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Gate Admission Fees

Pay at the gate upon arrival. Fees apply per person, with free entry for children 3 and under. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be exploring trails and grounds, so wear comfy shoes! Reddit

🍎 Farmers Market Sundays

Don't miss the Sunday farmers market for local treats like apple cider donuts! Instagram

🦉 Nocturnal Animal Shows

Check schedules for special programs, like learning about nocturnal animals. Instagram

♿ Wheelchair Accessibility

Enjoy the extensive wheelchair boardwalk, though some trails may have accessibility issues. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(341 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Stamford Museum and Nature Center for its beautiful grounds, well-cared-for animals, and engaging exhibits. It's a highly recommended spot for families and anyone looking for a relaxing day outdoors with a touch of culture. Some minor accessibility issues on certain trails have been noted, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive. Reddit

"Beautiful and fun place to visit. As soon as you arrive you prompt to purchase your ticket at the gate. You cab pay with cash or card. The entrance fee is definitely worth it for all you get to see and explore. There is a lot to do (museum, hikes, walk path, animals to see and much more). I recommend spending 2-3 hours there."

Yanibel Colvin

"The wheelchair boardwalk is extensive and lovely! Ironically the start of Trail 7 is currently inaccessible, making it unsafe and painful. Looks like the gravel wore away. Please maintain this part or consider a permanent threshold ramp solution, so the Wheel in the Woods is truly wheelable 🙂 I look forward to coming back again."

Allison Leach

"Had our first date here in March 2022. 3 years later came back with our baby boy..great relaxing spot with ever changing art. Love the vibes and we took some perfect photos"

Alan Brofka

What People Like

Beautiful grounds and pond
Happy, well-looked-after animals
Engaging art exhibits

What People Dislike

Trail accessibility issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center is located at 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford, CT. Driving is the most common way to get there, with ample parking available. TikTok

While specific public transport routes can vary, checking local Stamford transit schedules is recommended. Many visitors opt for driving due to the location. Reddit

From I-95 North or South, take Exit 14 for Route 106. Turn right onto Route 106 East and continue for approximately 2 miles. Turn left onto Scofieldtown Road. The entrance will be on your right. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available on-site. Admission fees are collected as you drive in. TikTok

Yes, using GPS with the address '39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford, CT' is the easiest way to navigate to the center. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is $14 per adult, $8 for children aged 4-17, $10 for students 18+, and children 3 and under are free. TikTok

Tickets are purchased at the gate as you drive into the center. Payment can be made with cash or card. TikTok

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Stamford Museum and Nature Center website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. TikTok

Discounts are available for students. Check the official website for any other potential group or membership discounts. TikTok

Tickets are typically purchased at the gate upon arrival. For special events like 'Bevs & Bites,' tickets may be available at the door or in advance. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a variety of farm animals like cows and sheep, as well as wildlife such as otters and owls. Instagram+1

Yes, there are several nature trails and a scenic boardwalk for exploring the grounds. Instagram

Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for kids with farm animals, wildlife, a playground, and educational programs. InstagramReddit

Besides animals and trails, you can explore art exhibits in Bendel Mansion and enjoy the beautiful grounds for picnics. InstagramReddit

The center features an extensive wheelchair boardwalk, making it accessible for many visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining

While there isn't a full-service restaurant, the Sunday Farmers Market often features food vendors, including local favorites like apple cider donuts. Instagram+1

Yes, there are picnic tables available throughout the grounds, making it a great spot for a family picnic. TikTokInstagram

The farmers market typically offers a variety of local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. Oronoque Farms is known for its apple cider donuts. Instagram

Yes, Stamford offers a wide range of dining options. Many visitors enjoy local pubs and cafes. Reddit

Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, especially for picnics. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The scenic pond, the farm animals, the art exhibits, and the fall foliage on the boardwalk are all great photo opportunities. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, photography of the animals is encouraged, but always be respectful of their space and well-being. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's advisable to check with the center's administration. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, especially for outdoor shots. Instagram

Don't miss capturing the highland cow if you see one, or the playful otters. The changing art exhibits also offer unique shots. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center is a dream for families! Kids will adore the farm animals and the chance to see playful otters. InstagramReddit Don't miss the playground for extra fun. The accessible boardwalk and nature trails are perfect for little legs and strollers. Instagram Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, and check the schedule for educational programs that bring nature to life for young minds. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Walkers

Explore the diverse nature trails and the scenic wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that winds through woodlands and meadows. InstagramReddit It's a peaceful escape to observe local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other small wildlife as you stroll. The well-maintained paths offer a refreshing outdoor experience for all fitness levels.

🎨 Art & Culture Lovers

Visit the Bendel Mansion to experience rotating art exhibits. Instagram The mansion itself is a beautiful setting for appreciating diverse artistic expressions. The center also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, offering a chance to engage with the local arts scene. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Wildlife

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center is home to a variety of animals, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can observe farm animals like cows and sheep in their naturalistic enclosures. A particular highlight is the otter exhibit, where these playful creatures can be seen swimming and interacting. InstagramReddit The center also educates visitors about local wildlife, including birds of prey like the Barred Owl, which has been a special visitor for educational programs. Instagram

Beyond the main animal exhibits, the center's grounds offer opportunities to spot other wildlife in their natural habitats. The nature trails and boardwalks wind through woodlands and meadows, providing chances to see birds, insects, and other small creatures. It's a wonderful way to connect with nature and learn about the local ecosystem. Instagram

Art and Culture at Bendel Mansion

The Bendel Mansion serves as the cultural heart of the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, housing rotating art exhibits. These displays showcase a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, offering a cultural complement to the natural attractions. Past honorees like Jacques Pépin and Lidia Bastianich have been celebrated here, highlighting the venue's significance in the community. Instagram The mansion itself is a beautiful space, providing an elegant backdrop for both art and special events. Instagram

Beyond the art, the mansion also plays host to various community events and gatherings. From evening receptions like 'Bevs & Bites' to meetings for local organizations, the Bendel Mansion is a versatile venue. Instagram+1 This blend of art, history, and community engagement makes the mansion a key part of the overall visitor experience at the center.

Family Fun and Educational Programs

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center is a prime destination for family fun. Children can interact with farm animals, marvel at the otters, and enjoy the dedicated playground. InstagramReddit The accessible boardwalk and nature trails offer safe and engaging ways for families to explore the outdoors together. Instagram

Educational programs are a cornerstone of the center's mission. They offer opportunities for children to learn about animals, nature, and conservation. Special programs, such as visits from nocturnal animals like owls, provide unique learning experiences for school groups and families alike. Instagram These programs aim to foster a love and understanding of the natural world in young visitors.

You may also like