Make Wild Memories with a Nature-Inspired Birthday Party!
Looking for a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate your child’s big day? Host an unforgettable Nature-Inspired Birthday Party at Bartlett Nature Center!
🌟 Summer Special: Animal Encounters Party – Our Most Popular Theme!
Get up close and personal with 4 amazing animals chosen by our staff in an engaging, hands-on Animal Encounter for up to 25 guests. Kids and adults alike will be wowed by this interactive wildlife experience!
After the encounter, continue the celebration with 1 hour in our Prairie Classroom or Outdoor Picnic Area—perfect for food, cake, and presents. We provide the tables, chairs, and fun—you just bring the party spirit! And best of all? No mess at home!
🎉 Party Details:
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Parties held Saturdays & Sundays (based on availability)
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Includes: 1-hour private room rental + 45–60 minute Animal Encounter
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Hosted by a knowledgeable Nature Center instructor
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Limited summer availability—book early to secure your date!
🎈 Ready to celebrate?
Submit a Party Request Form below to get started. Our team will help you plan a birthday to remember!
🎉 Animal Encounter $250 (a $25 summer savings!) (Ages 4-12, Adult) – Get up close and personal with 4 fascinating live animals in this wild and unforgettable party! Guests will learn about reptiles, amphibians, and other creatures while having the chance to see, touch, and explore the animal kingdom.
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🎉 Throw Your Party Here – Room Rental (All Ages) – Need a space for your special event? Our party room rental provides the perfect setting for birthdays, celebrations, and gatherings of all kinds—bring your own decorations, food, and fun to make it your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How will I know if my birthday party request has been approved?
A. If there is a problem with the date(s) you have requested, you will be notified. If there is no problem with the date(s), a confirmation form will be mailed out to you within 3-4 business days.
Q. Is there a Deposit needed and when is it due?
A. Full payment is expected within 3 days from receiving the confirmation letter.
Q. May I book an ADULT Birthday Party?
A. Yes Please! Just complete the form and let us know what you have in mind. We will try our best to accommodate your happy celebration!
Q. Am I allowed to arrive early to setup for my party?
A. You may arrive a maximum of 15 minutes early to begin your setup and 15 minutes extra to leave.
Q. Will a staff person be designated to my party?
A. Yes, you will be assisted by a Staff Member who will help you get settled in your room and/or activity and answer any questions you may have.
Q. Can we use other areas to congregate for our party?
A. No, please use only the specified spaces as marked in your agreement during your stay.
Q. How many tables and chairs are in the Party Room/Classroom?
A. Each Party Room has a total of 2 seating tables, 1 food table and chairs. Two rooms can be combined to allow seating for up to 32 guests and 2 food tables in the Prairie Classroom(s). Other Program Rooms may be used as needed and set up as well as fees will be determined.
Q. Are we allowed to bring food into the Party Rooms or the Arts & Crafts room?
A. Yes, you are allowed to bring in food and/or order pizza through the Bartlett Nature Center; however, there are no warming facilities or refrigerators available for the food that you bring in. For an additional charge, the park district will provide a pizza package. White table covers can be purchased for an additional fee.
Q. Birthday Party Supervision Guidelines
A. Children must be supervised at all times at an adult/child ratio of see below: The Supervising adults must be actively assisting. Supervisors need to be 14 or older for children 7 & up or 18 or older for children under 7. No playing or running unsupervised in the nature center museum exhibit area.
Q. What is your refund policy?
A. Refunds, minus a $25 service charge will be given for cancellations if the following notice is given to the district: 21 or more working days prior to rental-rental fee will be returned; 20-0 working days: no refund. Guest Services at Bartlett Community Center processes refunds. The hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30am-6pm and Saturday 9am-12noon.
Birthday Parties are also available at the Bartlett Community Center and the Schrade Gymnasium.
