The nature center at Rum Village, one of South Bend’s largest parks, turned 40 years old today. The city celebrated the occasion at an event with Deputy Mayor Mark Neal, who planted a tree, a dedication plaque, and honored the winner of a photo contest. Coffee and cake were served to those who attended.
“Rum Village allows residents to experience the natural world within the city limits,” says Deputy Mayor Neal. “For 40 years it has been a community treasure.”
The park is home to 160 acres of rolling woodlands, a nature center, hiking and mountain biking trails, an 18 hole disc golf course, an outdoor pavilion area with picnic benches, and a large outdoor playground for kids. It is home to numerous wildlife species, including deer, fox, reptiles, and birds.
The nature center is a favorite of school-age children who often take field trips to learn about wildlife native to Northern Indiana. The nature center offers a feeding station, bird watching, a bee hive exhibit, and an “animal burrow” to explore underground life.
Rum Village is open all year round and free to the public. Hours for the nature center (which are subject to change) are Monday to Friday from 8:30 am until 4:30 pm and Sunday from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm. Call (574) 235-9455 for more information.
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