Frank Sharpe Jr. Wildlife Education Center: Greensboro’s Free Science Museum (2026)
Last updated: 2026 | By Sarah Marchwiany
Looking for a family-friendly spot where your kids can connect with nature, explore science hands-on, and even meet live animals all without spending a dime? The Wildlife Education Center at Bur-Mil Park is one of Greensboro’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re searching for a free science museum, curious about local wildlife, or just need a fun weekend activity that’s educational and entertaining, this center checks all the boxes.
Many parents search for screen-free outings that engage their kids’ curiosity and teach them something valuable. It can be tough to find a place that’s both fun and free and doesn’t leave you feeling like you need a nap afterward. The Wildlife Education Center delivers an immersive experience without the overwhelming crowds of larger Greensboro museums. For Triad families who value learning and outdoor fun, it’s the perfect blend of science, play, and fresh air.
The Basics
Address:
Frank Sharpe Jr. Wildlife Education Center
5834 Bur-Mil Club Rd Ext
Greensboro, NC 27410
Phone: 336-641-2020
Hours: Saturday & Sunday | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Visit the official site
Free Science Museum in Greensboro
Where Nature Meets Curiosity
Inside of Bur-Mil Park, the Frank Sharpe Jr. Wildlife Education Center is a gem for local families. Housed in a beautifully restored barn from the early 1900s, this educational center is more than just a museum, it’s a hands-on discovery zone. The space honors Frank Sharpe Jr., a passionate nature lover, and showcases North Carolina’s wildlife and natural resources through interactive exhibits, programs, and displays.
A Little History
The Frank Sharpe Jr. Wildlife Education Center is more than just a place to learn — it’s a symbol of community collaboration. Built with a total investment of $300,000, the project was made possible through a joint effort between the City of Greensboro, Guilford County, and the North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation (NCWHF). The NCWHF generously contributed $150,000; the city and county pitched in $75,000 each. Local builders, architects, and suppliers donated their time and talent.
The center is housed in a beautifully restored barn dating to the early 1900s — originally part of Owl’s Roost Farm and Poker Club on land once owned by Julius W. Cone. It later became the home of Frank Sharpe Jr., an avid wildlife enthusiast whose passion for the outdoors inspired the creation of this educational space. The center stands today as a tribute to its namesake and a living legacy for future generations to explore.
What to See Inside the Wildlife Education Center
Inside the center, you can purchase fishing bait or pick up a trail map. Visitors can participate in the North Carolina Fishing Loan-a-Rod Program. It’s not just a museum, it’s a launching point for a full day of outdoor adventure.
Live Animals and Taxidermy Exhibits
The centerpiece for most kids: live animals. Kids can get up close with snakes and turtles, and explore a taxidermy collection of birds and other native North Carolina wildlife. The collection is carefully curated to represent the actual wildlife your family might encounter on the trails and natural areas surrounding Bur-Mil Park — turning the indoor exhibit into a preview and companion for the outdoor experience.
The turkey exhibit, provided by the NC National Wild Turkey Federation, is a perennial favorite with younger visitors.
Hands-On Areas for Younger Kids
The center thoughtfully includes several spaces specifically designed for toddlers and young children:
- Sensory bin with sand and seashells — Little hands stay busy exploring different textures and natural materials. A calming, tactile experience for the youngest visitors.
- Microscope station — Slides with bugs and natural specimens invite curious kids to look closer than they’ve ever looked before. A reliable “wow” moment for kids who haven’t used a microscope before.
- Book corner upstairs — A cozy, quiet reading nook with a bookshelf full of science and nature books. A lovely spot to settle in while younger siblings rest or while the rest of the family browses exhibits.
Greensboro Science Museum Hours
If you’re planning a visit, make sure to check this Greensboro science museum hours. The Wildlife Education Center is open only Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., making it an ideal weekend outing. It’s a relaxing and engaging way to spend a morning or afternoon, especially with access to the park’s many other amenities like walking trails, a golf course, tennis courts, and a pool.
Fishing Programs
Inside the center, visitors can purchase fishing bait and pick up a trail map for the park’s fishing areas. The Wildlife Education Center also participates in the North Carolina Fishing Loan-A-Rod Program — families without their own gear can borrow a fishing rod and head straight to the lake. One of the most underutilized features of the center and one of the most delightful: walk in, borrow a rod, walk out to the lake. No gear required.
See our Best Fishing Spots in the Triad guide for more on Bur-Mil Park’s fishing options.
Outdoor Trails Surrounding the Center
The trails surrounding the Wildlife Education Center are exceptional — and they’re what make a trip to Bur-Mil Park a genuinely full-day outing rather than a quick stop.
Owl’s Roost Trail — Award-Winning Mountain Biking
The Owl’s Roost Trail system within Bur-Mil Park is regularly recognized as one of the best urban mountain biking trails in the United States. Bicycling Magazine has named it the best urban mountain biking trail in the country. If you have older kids or teens who mountain bike, this is a must.
Lake Brandt Greenway — Easy and Scenic
The Lake Brandt Greenway offers an easier, paved path with beautiful water views — ideal for families with younger kids, strollers, or anyone who wants a gentle walk with genuine scenery. The greenway also provides access to historical sites including Guilford Courthouse National Military Park.
Big Loop and Little Loop Trails
Both are well-maintained hiking and biking trails for families who want something more active than the greenway but don’t need technical mountain bike terrain. Great for older elementary kids and above.
Full Bur-Mil Park Amenities
The Wildlife Education Center is just one piece of what Bur-Mil Park offers. A full day might include the center, a trail walk, fishing, the accessible nature-themed playground, pickleball and tennis courts, and the driving range. See our complete Bur-Mil Park Greensboro guide for the full picture.
Educational Programs
The Frank Sharpe Jr. Wildlife Education Center offers group educational programs throughout the year. Programming covers local wildlife, conservation, STEM connections, and outdoor education — all tied to the exhibits and natural resources of Bur-Mil Park.
Check the Guilford County Parks events calendar for upcoming programs, special events, and school group booking information.
How to Support the Center
The Wildlife Education Center is free to the public thanks to ongoing community support from organizations including the NC Wildlife Habitat Foundation, the Town of Summerfield, and Petco. Families can help keep the center running and the animals well cared for by:
- Donating supplies: Rabbit pellets, animal bedding, and gift cards to local pet stores are always needed
- Monetary donations: Accepted by mail or by phone at (336) 641-2020
- Spreading the word: Sharing the center with other Triad families is genuinely meaningful — this is a rare free resource that runs on community care
Tips for Families Visiting the Wildlife Education Center
Weekend-only hours matter. The center is only open Saturday and Sunday, 9am–5pm. It’s easy to forget and show up on a weekday to find it closed. Put it in your weekend plans intentionally.
Pair it with the playground and a trail walk. The accessible nature-themed playground at Bur-Mil Park is excellent for younger kids. A morning visit to the Wildlife Education Center followed by a trail walk and playground time is a complete and free half-day outing.
Use the Loan-A-Rod program. If your family wants to fish but doesn’t own gear, the NC Fishing Loan-A-Rod Program at the center gives you access to everything you need. Pick up bait and a rod at the center, head to the lake. One of the best family experience deals in Greensboro.
Visit in the morning. The center tends to be quieter early in the day. Animals are more alert, kids are more focused, and you have more space to explore the exhibits at your own pace.
Combine with the Greensboro Science Center. If your family loves the Wildlife Education Center, the Greensboro Science Center is about 10 minutes away and offers a deeper dive into animals, science, and a full aquarium experience (admission required). A natural same-day or same-weekend pairing.
Free is genuinely free. No entry fee, no parking fee, no reservation required. Just show up during open hours. The center runs on donations — if you love it, consider dropping something in the donation box on your way out.
FAQs About the Wildlife Education Center Greensboro NC
Is the Frank Sharpe Jr. Wildlife Education Center free?
Yes — completely free to visit. No admission fee, no parking fee. The center accepts donations to support animal care and programming, which are always appreciated.
What are the Wildlife Education Center’s hours?
Saturday and Sunday, 9:00am – 5:00pm. Closed Monday through Friday. Always check before visiting as hours may vary for holidays or special events.
Where is the Wildlife Education Center located?
Inside Bur-Mil Park at 5834 Bur-Mil Club Rd Ext, Greensboro, NC 27410. Phone: (336) 641-2020.
Is the Wildlife Education Center good for toddlers?
Yes — the sensory bin with sand and seashells, the hands-on nature exhibits, and the live animals are all genuinely engaging for toddlers. The adjacent playground at Bur-Mil Park gives little ones room to run after exploring indoors.
Can you fish at Bur-Mil Park?
Yes — Bur-Mil Park has excellent fishing, and the Wildlife Education Center participates in the NC Fishing Loan-A-Rod Program. Borrow a rod at the center, purchase bait, and head to the lake. No personal gear required. A valid NC fishing license is required for adults.
What other things are there to do near the Wildlife Education Center?
The entire Bur-Mil Park complex: accessible nature playground, Owl’s Roost mountain biking trails (nationally recognized), Lake Brandt Greenway (paved, family-friendly), Big and Little Loop hiking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, and a driving range. It’s one of the most complete family park experiences in Greensboro.
Looking for more free and low-cost Greensboro family activities? See our Cheap and Free Things to Do in Greensboro NC, Bur-Mil Park Complete Guide, Best Fishing Spots in the Triad, Greensboro Science Center Guide, and our Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Greensboro with Kids.
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