Visit the Jarrett Prairie Center Museum that boasts amazing views of the Jarrett Prairie Nature Preserve along with more than 4,000 square feet of exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities for visitors of all ages. There are several large natural history and historical dioramas, fossil exhibits, prairie restoration information, an interactive prairie agriculture exhibit that allows visitors to design their own farm, and some live exhibits including box turtles, a fox snake, and honey bees. Visitors can relax in the Byron Bank Immersive Theater while learning about local prairie ecology. The ever popular Wolf Den bur oak tree exhibit is located in the theater for all of the little ones to enjoy climbing in and out and through, finding what may live inside our bur oak trees! Visitors can take a step out on the 2,600 square-foot wrap-around outdoor observation deck to take a look at the scenery for miles as the Jarrett Prairie Center is located on the third highest point in Ogle County. The deck also enhances the already unique space for those who rent the facilities for family gatherings, weddings, and other social and corporate events. Also available for rental groups is a state-of-the-art kitchen area sponsored by Prairie Forge Group of St. Charles, Illinois who served as architects for the 2016 museum renovation project. OSF Medical Group was also a generous sponsor of the renovation.

The Jarrett Prairie Center Museum is open every day and admission is free. The Museum serves as a resource for learning and a center for eco-tourism promoting an understanding about the importance of our natural lands in the Rock River region.

For more information about museum education programs or to set up a tour, contact our Education Department at 815-234-8535 x217 or x232. If you are interested in reserving the museum or lower level of the Jarrett Prairie Center for a private rental, please call 815-234-8535 x200.