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Critter Corner

Face to Face with Live Animals!

Join a critter expert, for a 45-minute hands-on adventure with amazing animals! Explore reptiles, amphibians, crustaceans, and arthropods through fun encounters, fascinating facts, themed craft, and surprises along the way.

Perfect for families with young kids (and anyone gentle and curious),

When: Every Other Thursday

Where: Burpee Museum, Rockford Illinois

Time: 1pm

Burpee Clubs: Communities of Curiosity

Pricing:

Drop In Admission – $18 (Best for First-time visitors, occasional participants, friends joining for a session)

Burpee Museum Member – $2  (Best for regular attendees who want the best value)

Class pricing includes museum admission for the child attending and up to 2 caregivers per child attendng the critter corner. Space is limited. Ask about space for additional adult compainions in advance. 

815-965-3433 

Museum members get free admission to the museum all year!

Museum Membership
Register to Attend

Turtle Fun!

September 10, 2026 at 1:00pm
Meet our living endangered animal ambassadors like baby girl and spot! Find out how they live, why they are endangered, and why these cuties live at Burpee Museum.
Meet the turtles

Adorable babies!

September 24, 2026 at 1:00pm
Momma and Daddy axolotl want you to meet their youngsters. Extra cute! Learn about axolotls, their care, their life in the wild, and more!
Meet the Axolotls

Toads and Frogs

October 8, 2026 at 1:00pm

Meet Burpee’s amphibians! From a bumpy toad to a smooth tree frog, who is hopping around the museum and what can we learn from local amphibians?

Meet the Toads

Sweet Snakes!

September 10, 2026 at 1:00pm
Meet our living threatened animals and learn why they are at Burpee Museum. All these are well socialized, super sweet snakes that are excited to meet you!
Meet the Snakes

Special Toes!

September 24, 2026 at 1:00pm
Did you know geckos can run up a wall? Learn how their feet are amazing, and why they like to lick their eyes!
Meet the Geckos

All the Favorites

October 8, 2026 at 1:00pm

Join us for a run down of Burpee’s hero ambassadors.  From Tegus to turtles, you will meet several different types of animals today!

Meet the Favorites

FAQ

What is the instructional level of these sessions?
These programs are crafted for families. We go at the speed of the students and work with you for unique animal interactions and fun facts. If you are bringing a child…or just a child at heart, this is for you!
Will we be looking at real living animals?
Yes. A defining highlight of this program is exclusive, behind-the-scenes engagement. Each session will get you a chance to interact with our animal care specialists and the amazing animals that call Burpee home.
Do I need to register for the entire season, or can I attend single months?
You can choose your own path. We welcome drop-ins and pre-registration. Call ahead if you have a large group!
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