Finnup Center
for Conservation Education
The Finnup Center for Conservation Education (FCCE) is a focal point of interactive learning in Garden City. This facility opened in 1996 and is home to the Lee Richardson Zoo Education Division, animal exhibits, and multiple learning stations. Walking through the hallways visitors can discover microscopes, magnifying glasses, and touch screens that pertain to the conservation of the environment.
Over 35,000 people from neighboring states visit the Finnup center each year. The opportunity to hold exotic species and gain knowledge in a ‘hands on’ environment are key elements of the conservation center. Students can learn about math, geography, communications, and science in a unique and interactive way. This facility is a unique component of the Lee Richardson Zoo.
Finnup Center Hours
Monday – Friday
8:00 am- 12:00 pm
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Finnup Center Admission
- Admission is free
History of the Finnup Center
The Finnup Center for Conservation was named after founding Garden City community members, the Finnup family. The family first settled in Garden City when Frederick Finnup, his wife, and three children fell in love with the Kansas countryside in 1845. They began to acquire land and grow their family reputation as philanthropic figures. Among many generous actions, they opened the Finnup Foundaton and donated a generous plot of land to the City of Garden City. This plot of land would be transformed into the expansive Finnup Park. Their legacy continues to this day through the impact of the Finnup Foundation Trust. Thus, the Finnup Center was opened and named in their honor.
Reserve a Meeting Room
In 2010, the Finnup Center was expanded to accommodate the growing educational program and meeting facilities. The FCCE has a distance learning studio that provides outreach programs across the country. They have two beautiful meeting rooms that are open to the public. The BAFFA lecture hall has a capacity of 110 people and a wireless speaker system. The Heart Conference Room is complete with two dry erase boards, electrical outlets for 25 computers, and a capacity of 40 people. These can be reserved by calling the Lee Richardson Zoo.
Book an Educational Program for Your Class
Spreading knowledge is the first priority of the Finnup Center; and it is displayed through the numerous educational options they provide. There are pre-designed programs crafted to the educational standards of your classrooms needs. These education programs are led by trained staff and volunteers to engage your students and teach them specific objectives in the conservation center. The FCCE also offers discovery boxes. These exciting boxes are prepared with biofacts, pictures, and activities that you can transport to your classroom! All items in the box pertain to a certain theme such as arctic birds, adaptations, or Kansas native species. Biofacts can include real fur, bones, and detailed photos. You can even work with the Finnup Center to create a unique box for your class.
Visit Today
The Finnup Center for Conservation Education is open Monday through Friday from 8am-12pm and 1pm-5pm. The facility is located at 312 East Finnup Drive. To reserve a meeting room or learn more about the educational programs call 620-276-1250 or email [email protected]
