Explore Virginia's natural heritage from the mountains to the sea with exhibits that look back at you. Transport yourself to the steamy world of a cypress swamp, complete with alligators and snapping turtles. Find songbirds nestled in the trees around a cascading mountain waterfall and view trout and paddlefish in a cool mountain stream. Explore the underwater world of the Chesapeake Bay and the underground realm of a limestone cave. See flying squirrels, stingrays and other creatures of the night. Touch some famous Bay creatures, plus enjoy activities at four hands-on discovery centers.

See spectacular views of the sun from the observatory and travel the universe in the planetarium theater. Outdoors, stroll the 3/4-mile elevated boardwalk to view coastal birds, bald eagles, beavers, bobcats, river otters, endangered red wolves and other animals in natural habitats. Look for butterflies, insects and birds in the butterfly garden, the Virginia Garden and landscape plantings, all of which display an array of native plants.

Children explore nature and space in special programs throughout the year, while adults enjoy hands-on sessions with staff naturalists.

Families can venture to caves, fossil banks and other natural areas on weekend safaris. A free story time is held at 10 a.m. on the third Saturday of every month.