Facilities

James Learning Center
The James Learning Center houses the Benson Family Nature Store, our administrative offices, library, and the Kieckhefer Classroom.
In our attempt to live and model our values we built a campus with facilities that showcase environmentally sound building techniques including passive and active solar energy, water collection systems, a constructed wetlands waste management system, and drought-tolerant landscaping. The complete development of our facilities and campus has been based on minimal impact and sustainable building practices. The James Learning Center has achieved a Gold Rating from the U.S. Green Building Council LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification program. The LEED Rating System is a set of guidelines that evaluates environmental performance and provides a definitive standard to measure and document our green building goals.


Benson Family Nature Store
Highlands Center for Natural History Gift Shop – a wonderful assortment of unique nature-related books, guides, apparel, and gifts for all ages.
It is the perfect place to get that special treat for any outdoor enthusiast. A wonderful array of children’s items are offered, designed to stimulate an interest to explore nature. For adults, exclusive naturally-scented shea butters and scrubs, Ecor designed holiday ornaments, jewelry and many apparel choices are offered.
A family membership also makes a great gift and all members get 10% off purchases throughout the year. Because it is a nonprofit organization there is no sales tax, and all proceeds benefit the Highlands Center’s nature-based education programs that reach over 10,000 children and adults annually.
Venue Rentals
From weddings to company meetings, we have different venue rentals to meet your needs!