Exhibits and Facilities

Purpose:  Educational exhibits provide basic natural history lessons in unique ways to an estimated half million children and their families each year. Over the years donors to the Rocky Mountain Nature Association have contributed to the development of many of these educational exhibits in Rocky Mountain National Park visitor centers.  Changes in technology have created new and captivating ways to present natural and cultural history lessons. It doesn’t take long for the current “state-of-the-art” to become outdated. No matter how interesting or durably exhibits are built; they still suffer from wear and tear.  No kid should be disappointed by an “Out of Order” sign.

History:  Beginning with the Kawuneeche Visitor Center project in 1987, the Rocky Mountain Nature Association has contributed funds from the sale of publications to create and maintain exhibits.  As a focal point for environmental education, the Moraine Park Visitor Center offers some of the best exhibits for kids found anywhere in the National Park System.  The Fall River Visitor Center wildlife exhibits and Discovery Center were specifically intended to capture kids’ imaginations.  Because of philanthropy for the park, Rocky Mountain National Park boasts some of the best children’s exhibits in the National Park System.  

Accomplishments:  The Rocky Mountain Nature Association has helped design, fabricate and install educational exhibits at Kawuneeche, Moraine Park and Fall River Visitor Centers.  These exhibits represent an educational investment of $1 million since 1987.  The RMNA continually repairs or replaces these exhibits as needed.

Annual Need:  Donor boxes appeal to park users to pitch in to help maintain exhibits.  But replacement and updating must be done to keep exhibits attractive. Currently, exhibit needs are being comprehensively reviewed by the National Park Service to identify opportunities and determine priorities.