The FCEC features an exhibit depicting the history and ecology of the southeast side natural areas as well as classroom spaces open to school and community groups.
Hours of operation for the Ford Calumet Environmental Center:
Sunday: Closed
Monday-Saturday: 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Visitors can learn more about the Calumet Region’s rich cultural and natural history by paying a visit to the new Ford Calumet Environmental Center (FCEC). The center offers a variety of public programs for all ages to enjoy as well as classroom spaces open to school and community groups. Do you have a question about local flora and fauna? Our on-site naturalists are happy to help answer your questions, point you toward a helpful resource, or loan you a field guide or a pair of binoculars to help you explore the park.
The center also serves as the home of the Chicago Park District’s team of Natural Area Resource Technicians; the amazing crew remediates, restores, and reclaims these sites for our local communities and future generations.
Come inside to borrow the following:
Binoculars, Flora, and Fauna Guides
- -Ask to borrow a pair of binoculars and some guides to make your stroll in the park that much more informative and adventurous.
- -Chat with our staff for the latest spotting and highlights to see.
Junior Explorers & Adventure Packs
- -The Southeast Side Junior Explorer activity booklet and adventure pack is a great activity for school groups and families. Activities encourage visits to the parks and inspire kids to love and protect nature. Download and print an activity booklet, complete each skill level, and earn your badges to become a Southeast Side Junior Explorer.
- In addition to the activity booklet, the Junior Explorer adventure pack includes tools to deepen park exploration and supplement the activity pages. Adventure packs can be checked out at the Ford Calumet Environmental Center at Big Marsh Park.
- Skill badges to become a Southeast Side Junior Explorer!
- -Naturalist: Reconnect with nature by learning more about the animals, plants, and geology at the parks.
- -Adventurer: Rediscover the outdoors by hiking, and learning about navigation, park safety, and sustainability.
- -Athlete: Reactivate your energy by rock climbing, biking, running, climbing, or doing yoga.
- -Creator: Refuel your creativity and let the parks be a source of inspiration for music, art, writing, and poetry.
- -Historian: Reawaken the past and uncover the unique industrial history of the Southeast Side parks.
