Week of Events
Danny Pratt Photography Exhibit
North Gallery Enjoy photography of wildlife and landscapes from local photographer Danny Pratt.
Melody Arnold Photography Exhibit
South Gallery Experience the beauty of nature with local photographer and outdoor education specialist Melody Arnold.
Monday, May 11, 2026
No events on this day.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
-
May 12, 2026 -Van Trip to the Morton Arboretum
Van Trip to the Morton Arboretum
Journey to Lisle, IL to visit the Morton Arboretum, which features a variety of different gardens, exhibits, a visitor’s center, a gift shop, and the Schulenberg Prairie – one of the largest restored tallgrass prairies in the Chicagoland area. Pack a lunch or grab one at the restaurant on site. $45/person. Admission and lunch are on your own. Register online by May 11. Register Online for this Event
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
-
May 13, 2026 -Homeschool Program: Scattered Seeds
Homeschool Program: Scattered Seeds
Event details Homeschool children ages 5-15 can join a naturalist and explore nature and history topics through discussion, hands-on activities, crafts, and games. Homeschool students will spend time indoors and outdoors, investigating concepts and engaging with nature. In Scattered Seeds, learn why plants create seeds, what’s inside of them, and where to find them. Event requirements Register online by May 11. $15/child. Register Online for Scattered Seeds
Thursday, May 14, 2026
-
May 14, 2026 -Wilderness Walk
Wilderness Walk
Event details Join a naturalist on a leisurely walk along a District trail to explore and learn a little something along the way. Dress for the weather. Event requirements Free. Register online by noon the day prior. Register Online for this Event
Friday, May 15, 2026
No events on this day.
Saturday, May 16, 2026
-
May 16, 2026Saturday Stroll
-
May 16, 2026 -A History of Bicycling in Illinois
Saturday Stroll
Event details Visit Rock Springs Nature Center to join a naturalist on a stroll along a trail. Come once or come every Saturday – nature is sure to show us something new each week! Event requirements Dress for the weather. Free. No registration required.
A History of Bicycling in Illinois
Event details From fun to fitness and even women’s rights, bicycles had a big impact on daily life in Illinois. Author and guest speaker Christopher Sweet’s new book rediscovers the people, companies, and events that made our state synonymous with the bicycle. Professor Sweet is a librarian at Illinois Wesleyan University. Event requirements Free. No registration required.
Sunday, May 17, 2026
-
May 17, 2026Sunday Storytime
-
May 17, 2026 -Spring Awakening Hike
Sunday Storytime
Event details Stop by the Children’s Room at Rock Springs Nature Center for stories, songs, and fun! We will read some nature stories, move our bodies, and spark some curiosity about the world around us. Event requirements Free. No registration required.
Spring Awakening Hike
Event details See what’s blooming and changing now that the temps are warmer and the sun is hanging around longer. We will hope to see a variety of spring wildflowers, including spring beauties, trillium, bluebells, and more. Event requirements $3/person. Register online by May 15. Register Online for Spring Awakening Hike

