Choate Island View

Crane Lecture: Sharing the History of Enslaved People on Choate Island

Join us for a lecture at the Crane Estate, sharing the history of a family of enslaved individuals on Choate Island. Learn the story of Edward (Ned) & Sabina, and their 7 children, who were enslaved by the Choate Family on the island in the 1700s. The lecture will include… Read More

Pruning Workshop at Forbes

Late winter, while your fruiting trees and shrubs are still dormant, is the perfect time to get them in shape for the coming season. Pruning keeps woody plants healthy and looking their best, and increases productivity. Come learn about fruit tree architecture, types of pruning cuts, tree shaping, and pruning… Read More

fire pit

CraneOutdoors: Sunset Hike to Cedar Point with Firepits

There’s no better excuse to explore Cedar Point—the western-most part of the Crane Estate—than a hike at sunset. This two-hour adventure in a lesser-known part of the property has it all… A stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens of the Great House A hike down the Woodland Trail leading… Read More

Sugaring Bucket

Children's Maple in the Barnyard at Appleton Farms

Maple Season is here! This special program for ages 3-11 & their families will focus on the magic of maple from start to finish. We will discover this tradition by observing trees, tasting sap, learning the tools involved, and finally, tasting the sweet product. This program is for families,… Read More

Maple sugar shack

Adult Maple Strolls at Appleton Farms

Visit the historic maple stand and sugar shack at Appleton Farms and learn all about maple sugaring, its history at the farm and in New England, and how you can try your hand at it at home! Experience a leisurely stroll along our country farm roads and past several historic… Read More

Lunar New Year Lanterns

Lunar New Year Sensational Street Food – Adult Cooking Class

This event has sold out. Celebrate the vibrant flavors and traditions of the Lunar New Year with a street food inspired cooking class! Together with event Chef Josh, you’ll cook, taste, and share the stories behind every dish. In this hands-on cooking class, you’ll make Scallion Pancakes with Soy Ginger… Read More

feather

Winter Wildlife Tracking in Whitney and Thayer Woods

Join us on the trails of Whitney and Thayer Woods and adjoining Weir River Farm to learn animal tracking basics and identification skills! You’ll discover how to investigate the trail for footprints, scat, burrows, and other signs left behind by wildlife, and experience the outdoors in a new way. Bring… Read More

ward birch

Family Explorer: Winter on the Lake at Moraine Farm

Hike along the shores of beautiful Wenham Lake on a glacial moraine and learn how this ridge formed thousands of years ago, as glaciers melted, scattering about rocks and sand to form the landscape we see today. Learn also about the importance of Wenham Lake as a water source, both… Read More

Bobcat track

Family Wildlife Tracking at Notchview with Adventure East

Step into the mystery of the natural world and deepen your relationship with those who we share the land. This two-hour immersive experience introduces the foundational skills of wildlife tracking—learning to identify track and sign, interpret animal clues, and cultivate a mindful presence in nature. Through guided exploration and… Read More

Blue Jay

Family Explorer: Winter Birds and Wildlife at Appleton Farms

What birds and other wildlife frequent the Appleton Farms fields, woodlands, and wetlands in the winter? This hike will start with some interactive games and demonstrations to get learners familiar with our resident winter birds and wildlife, and to introduce techniques for bird observation and animal tracking. We will then… Read More