Events

The Great Falls Discovery Center hosts community programs and events, rotating art exhibits in our Great Hall and a Coffee House hosted by the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center.

Nice & Easy Walk

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

Easy-paced, 1 to 2-mile guided walk, along the Canalside Rail Trail or downtown Turners Falls, geared for seniors, but open to all. Enjoy natural and local history along the way. Dress for the weather with sturdy footwear and bring water. Inclement weather cancels. Meet at the main entrance.

Free

Ongoing – Indoor StoryWalks®- Tracks in the Snow

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

Explore the lives of active and resting winter wildlife through stories. For ages 3 and up, accompanied by an adult. Meet at the welcome desk. At the end of the StoryWalk® enjoy reading more books about snow and winter from our collection. 2/1—2/12: Tracks in the Snow, by Wong Herbert Yee 2/13—2/28: Rabbit’s Snow Dance […]

Free

Where Are All the Animals Hiding?

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

How do animals stay snug and warm for winter? Come investigate hidden winter animal homes through stories, crafts, and activities. For ages 3–6+ with a parent or guardian. Friends and siblings welcome! Meet in the Great Hall.

Free

Nice & Easy Walk

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

Easy-paced, 1 to 2-mile guided walk, along the Canalside Rail Trail or downtown Turners Falls, geared for seniors, but open to all. Enjoy natural and local history along the way. Dress for the weather with sturdy footwear and bring water. Inclement weather cancels. Meet at the main entrance.

Free

First Friday: Navigate Your Neighborhood!

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

Every First Friday of the Month, Turners Falls businesses and organizations stay open late for activities. Drop in to learn how to get your bearings with just a compass and map! While you’re here, find out how you can care for the watershed through Leave No Trace. For all ages. Families welcome. Meet in the […]

Free

The Secret Lives of Turners Falls Germans

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

After the canal was rebuilt in 1869, German immigrants were among the first to move to Turners Falls and first to witness the planned village’s growing pains. Join DCR staff as we use photos, news clippings, and oral history to figure out how they built their community and traditions through mutual aid and hard work. […]

Free

Who Do You Love? Valentines for Wildlife

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

For all ages, stop by our Welcome Desk to make Valentines to give to the ones you love, keep for yourself, or give to your favorite wildlife biologist — all in honor of your favorite animal.

Free

Ongoing – Indoor StoryWalks® – Rabbit’s Snow Dance

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

Explore the lives of active and resting winter wildlife through stories. For ages 3 and up, accompanied by an adult. Meet at the welcome desk. At the end of the StoryWalk® enjoy reading more books about snow and winter from our collection. 2/1—2/12: Tracks in the Snow, by Wong Herbert Yee 2/13—2/28: Rabbit’s Snow Dance […]

Free

Kidleidoscope Story Hour – Porcupines

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Learn more about our wildlife neighbors in the Connecticut River Watershed. Program includes a story, activities, and crafts. Activities are indoors and outdoors, weather permitting. Siblings and friends welcome. Meet in the Great Hall.

Free

Nice & Easy Walk

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

Easy-paced, 1 to 2-mile guided walk, along the Canalside Rail Trail or downtown Turners Falls, geared for seniors, but open to all. Enjoy natural and local history along the way. Dress for the weather with sturdy footwear and bring water. Inclement weather cancels. Meet at the main entrance.

Free

Investigation Station: Amphibians and Reptiles in Winter

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

What are amphibians and reptiles up to during the winter? Join us at our investigation station by the Welcome Desk to find out. Explore through touchable artifacts and habitat diorama scavenger hunts. For ages 4 and up.

Free

Building a Blizzard: Snowflakes in the Great Hall!

Great Falls Discovery Center 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA, United States

Get inspired by the story of Vermont’s Wilson “Snowflake” Bentley and his obsession with snowflakes. In this drop-in program make your own unique snowflake art. Keep it simple making paper snowflakes or use gel printing techniques. All art materials provided. Along the way learn just what makes each snowflake unique. Families welcome! For adults, teens, […]

Free