The Nature Center at Avalon Canyon is a twenty-minute stroll up Avalon Canyon from town center. Or, take a quick ride by golf cart or bike, or by trolley. Its close proximity to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden and the Hermit Gulch Trail Head make this a perfect place to start your visit to Catalina.

The Nature Center is located at 1202 Avalon Canyon Road, and occupies the site of the first Interpretive Center, built by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks & Recreation, to tell the story of the natural history of the Island. The Nature Center features self-guided exhibits focusing on natural history and conservation efforts on the Island. There are hands-on activities for kids, videos, and a Resource Center.

The Center’s exhibit is titled, “PURE Catalina,” “PURE” an acronym for “Protect,” “Understand,” “Renew” and “Explore” form the exhibit sections.