Group Visits

Discover nature, science, and art in Sapsucker Woods

Photo by Alexandra Bayer.

Bring your group to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Visitor Center in Ithaca, New York—where science, art, and nature come together. Whether you’re a school, college, community group, or club, our guided tours offer an inspiring way to learn about birds and biodiversity, explore cutting-edge research, and experience the beauty of Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary.

Each visit includes time in the Visitor Center’s engaging exhibits and the option for additional time for self-guided exploration indoors and outdoors. Tours are led by Cornell Lab guides, covering a variety of topics and available throughout the week.

Need a self-guided visit? Check out our many guides and resources to help plan your visit.

Book Your Group Visit

All guided group visits require advance reservations so we can best accommodate your needs. Click below to view available times and submit your booking request:

Book a Group Tour

Once your request is received, our team will reach out to confirm your visit day, time, and details.

Guided Visit Options

Photo by Alexandra Bayer.

Highlights Tour

Discover the Cornell Lab’s mission to understand and protect birds and biodiversity. Through a guided exploration of the Visitor Center, learn about our research, resources, and conservation work—and how you can take action to help birds and nature in your own community.

Ages: Grades 6–12, College, Adults
Photo and sketch by Jane Kim / Ink Dwell.

Art and Ornithology

Art and illustration have shaped the field of ornithology for centuries. Explore the historical and contemporary artwork on display, including original field sketches, murals, and modern pieces that reveal how art continues to inspire discovery. Compare styles and techniques that bring the world of birds to life.

Ages: College, Adults
Photo by Alexandra Bayer.

What Makes a Bird a Bird

Take a deep dive into bird biology and evolution as we explore what makes birds unique. Your guide will lead you through the Jane Kim mural, From So Simple a Beginning, and the Bird Discovery Lab to uncover the remarkable traits that define this group of animals.

Ages: Pre-K through Grade 12
Photo by Alexandra Bayer.

Make an Impact

Science is at the heart of what we do—but we can’t do it alone! Learn how you and your group can participate in real scientific research through the Lab’s participatory science programs. From eBird to NestWatch, discover how everyday observers help advance global bird conservation.

Ages: Grades 6–12, College, Adults

Plan Your Visit

Hours: Guided visits are available Tuesday–Friday at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm
The Visitor Center is open 10 am–4 pm Tuesday–Sunday and the trails are open daily, dawn to dusk. When the Visitor Center is closed, there is an accessible portable toilet near the visitor parking lot.
Group Size: Group tours are available for groups of at least 10 people. Groups larger than 20 participants will be divided into multiple smaller groups, each with its own guide and start time, to ensure the best possible experience for everyone.
Cost: Admission is free; donations are appreciated to support educational programs.
Accessibility: The Visitor Center strives to be accessible to all. Please visit our Accessibility Page or reach out to ornithfrontdesk@cornell.edu for more information.
Parking: There is plenty of free car parking at the Lab. Buses may drop off and pick up passengers in our circular driveway at the main entrance, and should park in the far lot, closest to Route 13.

Guided visits typically last 40–60 minutes, with additional time available for self-guided exploration or trail walks.

Before You Arrive

To make the most of your visit:

Arrive 10–15 minutes early for check-in.
Dress for the weather if you plan to explore the trails.
Download the free Merlin Bird ID app and explore birds.cornell.edu/visit for maps and resources.
Binoculars and adaptive birding equipment are available to borrow at the Visitor Center front desk.