FREEPORT — The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center will open its doors to the public every Friday, year-round, beginning September 4, giving families and visitors a new way to explore the wildlife and natural habitats of Nokuse Plantation.
The weekly public access marks the first time in the center’s history that visitors will have a standing opportunity to visit outside of scheduled school field trips and special events.
Located on the more than 55,000-acre Nokuse Plantation in Freeport, the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center is operated by Nokuse Education Inc. The center will offer self-guided exploration of its trails, exhibits and ambassador animal habitats during Public Fridays.
Visitors will also have opportunities to participate in animal chats, animal encounters, hikes, feedings and other hands-on activities.
The center is home to more than 40 ambassador animals and serves more than 6,500 K-12 students and community members each year through environmental education programs focused on Florida’s native wildlife and habitats.
Daniel Milana, director of development and communications for the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center, said the new schedule will allow more people to experience the property.
“We’ve always welcomed schools and groups to experience Nokuse Plantation, but Public Fridays lets anyone walk through our gates and connect with these animals and this landscape any week of the year,” Milana said. “It’s a simple idea, but one we’ve wanted to do for a long time: invite our neighbors in to see what we get to see every day.”
General admission for Public Fridays will be $15 for visitors ages 13 and older and $10 for children ages 4 through 12. Children 3 and younger will be admitted free.
Schools can also schedule field trips on Fridays for $10 per student and chaperone. Teachers and bus drivers will be admitted free. The center encourages schools to schedule visits in advance.
Visitors who plan to return regularly can also purchase an updated Bio-Membership, which includes free weekly Friday admission, free entry to select annual events, gift shop discounts and other benefits.
The center is encouraging residents and visitors from Walton, Okaloosa, Bay, Holmes, Washington and surrounding counties to take advantage of the new public hours.
The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center was founded in 2009 as an environmental education facility focused on connecting people with Florida’s native wildlife and habitats through hands-on programming.
Individuals and schools interested in visiting can contact the center at 850-835-1824 or information@eowilsoncenter.org.
