Ford Nature Center, Youngstown

About Ford Nature Center

Ford Nature Center serves as the nature education facility for Mill Creek MetroParks in Youngstown, offering interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. The Nature Exhibit Hall features interactive displays focused on wildlife and habitats found within the MetroParks, with a full-length glass observation area overlooking the Native Wildflower Meadow. The Bird Observation Room allows visitors to watch native bird species at feeders and nesting boxes while recording sightings at the e-bird desk. The History Room contains an interactive map table exploring the Ford family heritage and the broader MetroParks trail system. MetroParks educators conduct guided hikes, kayak trips, tractor-wagon rides, trolley tours, and step-on tours throughout the park. School programs and indoor and outdoor educational activities run throughout the year. A gift shop offers nature-inspired items and MetroParks merchandise. The facility, recently redeveloped in 2023, features improved accessibility and expanded public spaces in the Historic District of Mill Creek Park.