Manresa Wilds

This is where the Wilds start

With seasonal programming throughout the park, Manresa Wilds is alive with opportunities to play, explore, learn, and connect. Whether you're paddling the Sound, attending a workshop, or lounging on the lawn, every visit opens the door to curiosity and discovery.

Programming is still taking shape, but the possibilities are coming into focus. Here’s just a glimpse of the activities, events, and ideas that are planned for Manresa Wilds. As the park evolves phase by phase, so will the opportunities to experience it and to shape the next chapter of Manresa’s lore.

Play

Explore nature-forward play zones: a sand lab, fort forest, and "The Wilds" for adventurous, exploratory play
Climb, swing, and challenge yourself at the Perch
Splash through the play creek and cool off at the community pool
Launch your kayak from the marina

Learn

Learn through hands-on exploration of our post-industrial wilds
Dive into ecology, climate, and habitat restoration at the Urban Ecology Center
Dig into energy history and sustainable design through guided programs in the Power Plant
Support or participate in university-led research tied to the park’s ecosystems
Join in field-based studies for schools, families, and lifelong learners
Help grow the next wild generation through internships and green job training

Gather

Take part in community festivals and seasonal celebrations
Explore rotating exhibits and storytelling spaces
Grab a bite near the beach at the promenade’s food stalls
Try wellness activities like hammock groves, meditations, or quiet walks through the Fly Ash Forest
Stretch out with friends and family on the community lawn
Attend musical performances, talks, and public events in the Turbine Hall—a flexible year-round venue

Explore

Get your hands dirty with volunteer stewardship projects—plantings, cleanups, habitat care
Learn about sustainable systems in action: from stormwater-fed wetlands to geothermal heating and composting stations
Wander over 15 miles of trails through forest, wetland, and shoreline

Play

Explore nature-forward play zones: a sand lab, fort forest, and "The Wilds" for adventurous, exploratory play
Climb, swing, and challenge yourself at the Perch
Splash through the play creek and cool off at the community pool
Launch your kayak from the marina

Learn

Learn through hands-on exploration of our post-industrial wilds
Dive into ecology, climate, and habitat restoration at the Urban Ecology Center
Dig into energy history and sustainable design through guided programs in the Power Plant
Support or participate in university-led research tied to the park’s ecosystems
Join in field-based studies for schools, families, and lifelong learners
Help grow the next wild generation through internships and green job training

Gather

Take part in community festivals and seasonal celebrations
Explore rotating exhibits and storytelling spaces
Grab a bite near the beach at the promenade’s food stalls
Try wellness activities like hammock groves, meditations, or quiet walks through the Fly Ash Forest
Stretch out with friends and family on the community lawn
Attend musical performances, talks, and public events in the Turbine Hall—a flexible year-round venue

Explore

Get your hands dirty with volunteer stewardship projects—plantings, cleanups, habitat care
Learn about sustainable systems in action: from stormwater-fed wetlands to geothermal heating and composting stations
Wander over 15 miles of trails through forest, wetland, and shoreline

An Experience for Everyone

This is where the Wilds start