Wilbur D. May Center
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At Wilbur D. May Museum, you can find a neat gift shop, Wilbur May's permanent collection, and fun themed traveling exhibits in winter that usually open around January. The Hall of Heroes, Dragons, Toytopia, and retro video game-themed some of exhibits I have enjoyed in the past. The permanent collection preserves the life of Wilbur D. May, a world traveler who collected thousands of artifacts throughout the span of his life and brought them back to his home here in Reno. Though small, the museum is packed with so much to see.
The Arboretum (right next to the museum) is tranquil and beautiful. It features over 4,600 native and adaptive plant species, 1,700 trees, a Labyrinth Garden, waterfalls, and Evans Creek. It also offers educational programs, a bird-watching spot with 55 species, and a redwood bridge. with lots of labeled trees and plants.
Paved trails and shade from trees in the Arboretum area provide fun & relief from the blazing hot summer sun, allowing for families to enjoy the outdoors for extended amounts of time. There are many beautiful gazebos in the arboretum area and a beautiful mini waterfall that contribute to it's tranquil atmosphere.
In the same area, you can travel back in time with the kids and play at the Dinosaur themed playground that features some swings, a slide, and a wall perfect for climbing. Other playgrounds available at Rancho San Rafaeal Regional Park - a playground made out of wood next to the pond & a more substantial and modern one next to the main street on North Sierra Street (just drive down the main road after entering the park and you'll spot it from the street). Because of the shade available, along with seating, restrooms, and so many other attractions nearby, this playground ranks among the highest on my list.
The park's wide-open spaces, amenities, and attractions make this park ideal for large and small gatherings, events, outdoor sports, and more.
I always encounter people from all walks of life here, including joggers, hikers, nature lovers, dog walkers, couples, families, and it's no wonder why. It has everything one would look for in a park and more.
In the same area, you can travel back in time with the kids and play at the Dinosaur themed playground that features some swings, a slide, and a wall perfect for climbing. Other playgrounds available at Rancho San Rafaeal Regional Park - a playground made out of wood next to the pond & a more substantial and modern one next to the main street on North Sierra Street (just drive down the main road after entering the park and you'll spot it from the street). Because of the shade available, along with seating, restrooms, and so many other attractions nearby, this playground ranks among the highest on my list.
The park's wide-open spaces, amenities, and attractions make this park ideal for large and small gatherings, events, outdoor sports, and more.
I always encounter people from all walks of life here, including joggers, hikers, nature lovers, dog walkers, couples, families, and it's no wonder why. It has everything one would look for in a park and more.
Notes
-Stroller and wheelchair friendly
-Museum features wildlife displays, African primitive art, Ta'an Dynasty pottery, Egyptian artifacts, and European silver
-Indoor garden includes a centerpiece waterfall, a koi fish pond, and a seasonal flower garden
-Available for weddings and parties
-Call the park to reserve outdoor pavilions for events
-25-acre off-leash dog park (bring a towel on wet days for muddy paws)
-Rose garden located in the Arboretum
-Large grassy areas are perfect for kite flying
-Larger children's playground near the grassy field, another playground next to Herman's Pond, and a dinosaur playground by the museum parking lot
-Gazebo available for gatherings
-Exercise course around the grassy area
-Home to a variety of wildlife
-No dogs allowed in the Arboretum
-Shade is mostly found in the Arboretum area
-Ideal for photo shoots
-Great for picnicking, with tables and BBQs located next to the playground and the open grassy field.
Categorized under Parks and Playgrounds, Family Friendly Hiking and Picnic Spots
*Information subject to change. All opinions are my own.*
Photography
©Katherine Fung,
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