A living rooftop garden comprised of select plant species. Located behind the Nature Center on the roof of the Exhibit Hall, a series of planted trays were combined to create a patchwork of plant species with a wealth of function. The plants include sedges, alliums, and select bulbs that create habitat to attract pollinators such as birds, bees and insects. The plants also absorb rainwater to reduce stormwater runoff, promote health and well-being, lower ambient temperatures and conserve energy.

The wildflower meadow is a highlight of the Ford Nature Center grounds. Seeds from over two dozen native forbs (wildflowers) and warm season grasses were planted to establish this important habitat. The plants attract pollinator species of birds and insects, as well as providing suitable habitat for ground-swelling animal. Seasonal change is on display throughout the meadow with blooms of varying color and duration, differing textures, and new wildlife, offering a new experience every day.

This space, once the location of the Ford family tennis court, is carved out of the wildflower meadow along the tree line of the property. The classroom is accessible utilizing The Bill Whitehouse Education Trail. Natural seating and other amenities create a space to gather, learn, and commune with nature. The second outdoor classroom located behind the Education Building, includes terraced sandstone block seating and a concrete patio. Created to encourage groups to gather, learn, and commune with nature, visitors can directly access the Virginia J. Axtmann Trail for all People or The Bill Whitehouse Education Trail. Educational signage is located nearby.

(0.1 mile; easy, paved trail) – This paved trail is designed to provide people of all abilities access to the naturally wooded areas surrounding the Ford Nature Center. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along this trail, experiencing forested habitat and the various plant species that comprise it. Educational signage is located throughout the trail.

(0.11 mile; easy) – This trail runs alongside the perimeter of the Native Wildflower Meadow providing access to the Ecology Trail and Virginia J. Axtmann Trail for All People. This trail also leads to the outdoor classrooms and Little Free Library.

The 3-story Education Building was once the garage to both the Robinson and Ford families. Originally designed and constructed with the house (Nature Center), the structure once housed an apartment on the upper level. The building now facilitates multiple actvities in both indoor and outdoor classroom settings, and provides direct access to the James & Coralie Centofanti Foundation plaza and the Virginia J. Axtmann Trail for All People.