
Take a Day Trip to Archbold Biological Station
By Katie Caldwell
As families gather for the holidays, what better way to spend quality time together than getting outdoors? Archbold Biological Station in Venus, FL, offers the perfect spot for a day trip out in nature. This nonprofit biological research station has a private nature preserve – a natural laboratory for staff scientists – along with a visitor’s center that is open to the public from 8:00am to 5:00pm on Thursdays through Sundays. Archbold has something for everyone: natural history displays and dioramas, nature trails, a history walk, and more!
“Every trip to Archbold starts with the iconic drive through towering slash pines and sprawling palmettos along the main driveway,” notes Katie Caldwell, Archbold’s Education Assistant. “You’ll want to take it slow – both to enjoy the scenery and to watch out for any Gopher Tortoises that might be crossing!”
At the end of the driveway, visitors turn right toward the Frances Archbold Hufty Learning Center, a LEED® Platinum-certified building. Signs educate visitors about the green building features that help reduce energy and water use. Throughout the Learning Center, there are a variety of educational displays such as a black bear research exhibit and a diorama of the Florida scrub habitat. Around the corner is the Prairie Porch, which has picnic tables with informational tabletops highlighting local habitats and the inhabitants of each. This shaded spot is ideal for a picnic after a morning of exploring!

At the Learning Center, there are trail guides outlining the two trails that visitors may hike. “The Discovery Loop is a great beginner trail. It’s a quarter mile long and has interpretive signs to guide you through the ancient scrub habitat,” explains Caldwell. For a more rugged experience, visitors can trek along the Explorer’s Loop, a two-third-mile trail with a moderate difficulty level. “You can often see some interesting wildlife on our Explorer’s Loop, because it’s a bit farther from the buildings and other human disturbances,” notes Caldwell. “If you’re planning to hike the Explorer’s Loop, come ready for a proper hike – sunscreen, long pants and solid hiking shoes are a must.” Visitors should note that both nature trails are on loose, sandy soil.
“Archbold is not just a place for the nature lovers but also a great stop for those with a knack for history,” explains Caldwell. “The Station was listed on the National Register of Historic Places for the architectural, scientific and conservation significance in 2007.” A paved history trail outlines Archbold’s unique history dating back to 1929 when the property was purchased by John A. Roebling and Margaret Shippen Roebling. This trail concludes in front of the historic storehouse, which had housed materials to build the Roebling’s estate prior to being purchased by Richard Archbold in 1941 and converted into a research building.
“A self-guided day trip is a great introduction to Archbold, but if you are wanting to get the behind-the-scenes perspective, you have got to come down for one of our public events,” explains Dustin Angell, Program Director of Education. “We have guided hikes, lectures from our science staff, open houses, and a variety of family activities like a pond exploration day!”
Public events begin in the new year with a First Day Hike on January 1, 2025, from 9:00-11:00am. This First Day Hike offers an active start to the New Year with a walk guided by Angell. During the hike, participants will learn about the natural history of the scrub. To learn more about this and other events, visit: www.archbold-station.org/events.
“You’d be surprised how often I hear, ‘I’ve heard of Archbold but never have been down to visit.’ Well, this is your sign to come visit!” Caldwell exclaimed. “Archbold – from the natural areas to the historic buildings – is a beautiful place and truly has something for everyone. Come check it out!”
Archbold is located at 123 Main Dr. Venus, FL, 33960. For questions about visiting or to book a private tour for larger groups, email: education@archbold-station.org