Discover one of Northwest Florida’s premier environmental education destinations with weekly public access, animal encounters, nature trails, and hands-on experiences at Nokuse Plantation.

For the first time since opening, the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center in Freeport, Florida, will welcome the public every Friday throughout the year.

Beginning September 4, 2026, residents and visitors will have a new weekly opportunity to experience one of Walton County’s most unique environmental education destinations through self-guided exploration, animal encounters, animal chats, hikes, feedings, and other hands-on activities.

Located on the expansive 55,000-plus-acre Nokuse Plantation preserve, the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center has historically served primarily as an educational destination for school field trips and special events. The new Public Friday schedule expands access, allowing families, nature lovers, and community members to visit on a regular basis.

A New Way to Experience Nokuse Plantation

The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center was created to connect people with the natural world and inspire a deeper understanding of Florida’s native wildlife and habitats.

The Center is home to more than 40 ambassador animals and provides environmental education programming for more than 6,500 K-12 students and community members each year.

With the launch of Public Fridays, visitors can explore the Center’s exhibits, trails, and animal habitats while learning more about the unique ecosystems found throughout Northwest Florida.

Public Friday Admission Information

Public admission beginning September 4, 2026:

• Ages 13 and up: $15
• Ages 4–12: $10
• Children ages 3 and under: Free

Schools are also welcome on Fridays. Field trips are available for $10 per student and chaperone, with teachers and bus drivers admitted free. All ages and grade levels are welcome, and schools are encouraged to schedule visits in advance.

Membership Opportunities Available

Visitors who want to experience the Center throughout the year can take advantage of the updated Bio Membership program, which includes free weekly Friday admission along with additional benefits such as free entry to select annual events and gift shop discounts.

Connecting Northwest Florida With Nature

“We’ve always welcomed schools and groups to experience Nokuse Plantation, but Public Fridays lets anyone walk through our gates and connect with these animals and this landscape any week of the year,” said Daniel Milana, Director of Development and Communications for the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center.

“It’s a simple idea, but it’s one we’ve wanted to do for a long time — invite our neighbors in to see what we get to see every day.”

The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center encourages residents and visitors from Walton, Okaloosa, Bay, Holmes, Washington, and surrounding counties to take advantage of this new weekly opportunity.

Whether you’re looking for things to do in Freeport, Florida, family-friendly activities in Walton County, or a unique way to explore Northwest Florida’s natural environment, Public Fridays at the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center offer a new reason to visit Nokuse Plantation.

For more information or to schedule a visit, contact the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center at 850-835-1824 or email information@eowilsoncenter.org.