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Welcome to Valley Nature Center

valley nature center weslaco

The Valley Nature Center's 6 acre park is home to a wide variety of the LRGV's native plants and animals. Many plants were transplanted during the past 35 years to this protected area from sites which were slated for development. There is an on-going effort to enhance the plant diversity of the park. This aim is for protection of local plant species diversity as well as to make diverse food and habitat available for resident and migratory wildlife. By strolling the 1 mile of trails of the Nature Park, one may examine plant species native to such diverse areas as the Sabal Palm Grove, Arroyo Colorado Brush, the Barretal, Coastal Lomas, and the Chihuahuan Thorn Forest.

The Lower Rio Grande Valley is one of the top birding and butterfly destinations in the United States. Wander around our trails and you'll know why Malachite and Pixie butterflies, Plain Chachalacas, Great Kiskadees, Buff-bellied Hummingbirds, Texas Tortoises, Eastern Cottontail Rabbits, and several lizard and amphibian species can all be seen here.


A Secret Garden in the Heart of the Rio Grande Valley

We are the oldest nature center in the Rio Grande Valley, and the only non-profit center fully dedicated to environmental education south of San Antonio and east of Eagle Pass.  Our state of the art green facility was completed in October 2014.  Interactive displays are a fun way for the whole family to learn about all of the wonderful and diverse plant and animals that are here in the Rio Grande Valley.VNC 40th Logo Color V3

  • 301 South Border Ave / PO Box 8125
  • Weslaco, TX 78599-8125
  • (956) 969-2475
  • (956) 969-9915 - Fax
  • This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

About VNC

about valley nature center weslacoOur Mission

"To provide educational opportunities and to foster appreciation and understanding of the Lower Rio Grande Valley's unique natural communities of flora and fauna."

Six-Acre Urban Paradise

The Valley Nature Center's 6 acre park is home to a wide variety of the LRGV's native plants and animals. Many plants were transplanted during the past 34 years to this protected area from sites which were slated for development. There is an on-going effort to enhance the plant diversity of the park. This aim is for protection of local plant species diversity as well as to make diverse food and habitat available for resident and migratory wildlife. By strolling the 1 mile of trails of the Nature Park, one may examine plant species native to such diverse areas as the Sabal Palm Grove, Arroyo Colorado Brush, the Barretal, Coastal Lomas, and the Chihuahuan Thorn Forest.

The Lower Rio Grande Valley is one of the top birding and butterfly destinations in the United States. Wander around our trails and you'll know why Malachite and Pixie butterflies, Plain Chachalacas, Great Kiskadees, Buff-bellied Hummingbirds, Texas Tortoises, Eastern Cottontail Rabbits, and several lizard and amphibian species can all be seen here. Our park is a wonderful natural oasis in the middle of the city and includes:

  • Cactus Gardens

  • VNC 40th Logo Color V3Butterfly Gardens

  • Bird Feeding Stations

  • 1/4 Acre Wetland

  • Board Walk

  • Small Ponds

  • Walking Trails

  • Wide Diversity of Native Plants

  • Native Plant Nursery

  • water feature valley nature center weslacoInterpretive Signage

  • Native Wildlife

Environmental Education

We offer a wide variety of exceptional educational programs and events throughout the year including:

  • School Field Trips

  • Live Animal Presentations

  • South Texas Natural History classes

  • Nature Camps for Children (summer)

Please see our “Resources” page for more information on our classroom friendly science and biology curriculums, Richard Moore's nature DVDs and so much more!

Many Ways to Give

Thank you for your interest in supporting Valley Nature Center's mission!

Valley Nature Center is a non-profit 501 (c) (3). The center relies on funding from its own programs, membership, donations, grants, sponsorships, and similar sources. We would love for you to partner with us by becoming a member or donating your time as a volunteer. Your donations are what funds the VNC and continue to fulfill our mission.

VNC 40th Logo Color V3Become a Member - Join Today!

Benefits:
- Free Admissions!
- 10% off in the Gift Shop! 
- Access to Library

Volunteer

Whatever your passion or talent may be, we can use you at the VNC! For a list of available volunteer opportunites:

Financial Support

Your tax deductible donations allow the VNC to keep operating and reach our goals - including our new building!

Adopt an Animal

The animals living at the VNC show everyone what animals make the Rio Grande Valley their home. Help us care for them!

Other Opportunities to Give:

If you would like more information on endowment or planned giving please contact our Executive Director, Hollie Johnston

Hours & Admissions

Monday: Closed 
Tuesday-Friday: 9am-4pm
Saturday: 9am-5pm 
Sunday: 12pm-5pm
Closed all Major Holidays.

Children(12 and under): $3.00
Adults (13 and over): $6.00
Seniors (55 and over): $4.00
VNC Members: Free!

Special Hotel Rates

best western

hi express

What Clients Say About Us

I couldn't believe the wonderful sites and sounds I found at the Valley Nature Center. It was like stepping into nature in the middle of the city, so convenient to get to...  I will be back a lot more...   N. Wright 

A Secret Garden in the Heart of the Rio Grande Valley

The Valley Nature Center is the oldest nature center in the Rio Grande Valley, and the only non-profit center fully dedicated to environmental education south of San Antonio and east of Eagle Pass.