Rapids Lake Education and Visitor Center 2008 Federal Duck Stamp Contest Phone: 952-854-5900 |
Dedicated in 1990, the Visitor Center is a gateway to the Refuge. Just a short drive from the
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| The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center |
Mall of America, the Visitor Center features an information desk where a staff member can help you plan your Refuge visit, four levels of exhibits, a 125-seat auditorium where you can view a multi-image slide show, an art gallery that rotates exhibits every six weeks, classrooms, and the Blufftop Bookshop. That's just the inside of the building.
To get a glimpse of the multiple habitats within the Minnesota Valley take a hike on the Hillside trail just outside the Visitor Center. The half-mile loop trail will take you through prairie, hillside forest, and wetlands. Ask for the Songbird Trail Pack at the information desk to learn about the birds that use the Refuge. One may also enjoy a panoramic view of Long Meadow Lake on our observation platform.
While at the Visitor Center be sure to pick up a Calendar of Events to learn about the wonderful assortment of programs offered by Refuge interpreters. Teachers and Youth Leaders can also pick up our Environmental Education brochure to learn about the wide variety of school and scout programs we offer.
The Visitor Center is open Tuesday - Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., closed Mondays and holidays. If you are interested in learning more about the Visitor Center, programs, classroom reservations, or the Refuge in general call us at 952.854.5900.
The Visitor Center is located at 3815 American Blvd. East in Bloomington, across from the Airport Hilton Hotel. From I-494, exit on 34th Ave. and drive south. Turn left on American Blvd. East and drive 1/4 mile to the entrance on the right.
