Green Briar Nature Center

At the Green Briar Nature Center, you will find a quiet corner of Cape Cod - a sanctuary of peace and beauty in all seasons. Located on the shores of Smiling Pool and adjacent to the famous Briar Patch of Thornton Burgess’s stories, Green Briar offers interpreted nature trails and a spectacular wild flower garden.

Natural history programs for children and adults are offered year-round and include classes, field trips, guided walks, and workshops on the natural sciences. We also have our very popular nature-related birthday parties. Outreach programs to area schools and other institutions are also an important part of Green Briar’s services to the community. Members of the education staff visit schools, nursing homes and clubs offering slide presentations, lectures and classes.

Green Briar is also home to the Robert S. Swain Natural History Library, which has a collection of books, periodicals and other materials on the natural history of the Northeast, particularly the eastern Massachusetts region. Books are available for reference or loan to members of the Society.  Adjacent to Green Briar is the 57-acre Briar Patch Conservation Area, home of Peter Rabbit and many of the other Thornton Burgess animal characters. Walking trails are open to the public.