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Spotlight Gallery: Neighborhood Naturalists

Exhibit

Information

Dates

Open now through July 12, 2026

Location

Academy of Natural Sciences
1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Cost

Included with general admission

Neighborhood Naturalists highlights the role that everyday people have played in science throughout history by observing and documenting the natural world.

The exhibition showcases historical and contemporary community science projects including the annual Philadelphia City Nature Challenge, a community-driven event that invites people of all ages to explore the natural world. By recording biodiversity, these community efforts help scientists track environmental changes and generate data that support scientific research, inform policy and empower communities to take action.

Stay tuned for the following events and programs associated with Neighborhood Naturalists (Subject to change):

  • Becoming a Neighborhood Naturalist — Offered Daily, Special Exhibits “Neighborhood Naturalist Lab
  • Nature at NoonSelect Thursdays, Locations Vary
  • Science StorytimeMay 9–10, August 22–23, Outside In
  • City Nature Challenge 2026April 24–April 27, 2026, Region-wide
  • Dinos After Dark: City Nature Challenge ID PartyApril 24, Special Exhibits “Neighborhood Naturalist Lab
  • Dinos After Dark: City Nature Challenge Insect Light TrappingApril 24, Logan Circle
  • Adult Nature Photography Workshop with Anwar Abdul QawiApril 26, John Heinz Wildlife Refuge
  • Drop-In Science Workshop: Bird Safe Philly May 2, 2–4 PM
  • Family Nature Challenge with Anwar Abdul QawiMay 16th, Special Exhibits “Neighborhood Naturalist Lab”
  • Dinos After Dark: Who Wants to Be a Bird-jillionaire?May 22
  • WINS Nature WalksSelect Sundays