Oxbow Park Nature Center
Client
Olmsted County
Location
Byron, MN
Program
Nature Center
Size
13,100 sf
The Oxbow Park Nature Center is a transformative project designed to enhance environmental education, wellness, and recreation in southeastern Minnesota. Replacing the original 1981 building, the new 13,100 sf facility offers modern, accessible spaces that expand capacity and programming for schools, community groups, and families throughout the region.
Located in the heart of Oxbow Park in Olmsted County, the center serves as a dynamic educational hub. Flexible classrooms and interactive exhibits provide hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity and stewardship. Rental spaces, modern AV equipment, and outdoor amenities like rain gardens and nature play areas make the center a destination for gatherings and events.
The building’s design—featuring high ceilings, extensive glass, locally quarried limestone, and regionally harvested wood—invites the outside in, connecting visitors to the unique landscape of the Driftless Area. A new welcome plaza and drop-off zone enhance safety and accessibility, particularly for large groups.
Environmentally conscious design elements, including rainwater management systems, energy-efficient infrastructure, and sustainable materials, reinforce the center’s role as a model of stewardship.
The project received an AIA Minneapolis Merit Award in 2025.
