Kate Fletcher and James Garcia
eSomethin staff

For many people in Ohio, their fondest memories of childhood are playing outdoors in the winter—running through a fresh blanket of show, making tall snowmen, and coming home to a cup of hot cocoa. This cozy, nostalgic feel is the heart of the 577 Foundation all throughout the wintertime.

PHS graduate and horticulturist at Missouri Botanical Garden, Caroline Hannah, recalls the 577 Foundation as a long-lasting piece of her childhood, with fond memories of ukulele classes and school field trips. Hannah considered working at the Foundation as she pursued her degree in horticulture. “The geodesic dome is fun in the winter,” she mentions.

With the trees bare of foliage in winter, you can get a clear view of the Maumee River on your walk through the grounds. There may be less to see in the gardens during winter, but there’s more to do than to take a walk.

Go Green in the Lush Geodesic Biodome

The Geodesic Biodome, especially in the winter, is a warm oasis. The dome is three layers thick and allows for the tropical climate inside the greenhouse to thrive year-round. Enjoy reading a book, feeding the fish, or relaxing at the many tables and benches in the dome.

Try new Things at Virginia’s House 

Some classes and events are held inside Virginia’s House, the original residence on the property. There’s always something worth learning in Virginia’s house, and 577’s Assistant director Kelly Hirsh is very proud of that fact. “There are so many options to choose from, you might just find a new hobby or creative outlet.” she said. “We have cooking classes, yoga, pottery, knitting, watercolors, garden classes – you name it.”

Pottery and ceramics classes are held regularly in the 577’s pottery studio, while others like painting are on a biweekly basis. Hirsh recommends that teenagers looking to take a class at the 577 start with one of their teen pottery classes.

Classes average $30-40 per person, but some are as low as $15. The cost covers everything you will need to participate, from paint and brushes to pots and seeds. Each class supports 10-12 students.

Every week, 577 has either a staff member or a volunteer come in to teach classes. No matter the person, no matter the class, everyone agrees that you will have a relaxing, encouraging, and supportive experience. There are so many things to do, it’s hard for people to pick a favorite.

Browse the Wares of the Curiosity Shop

The Curiosity Shop sells a range of donated books, puzzles, and craft supplies that are perfect for activities in winter. This repurposed garage is filled with books of every genre for any age. You can also cozy up by the stove, which is fueled with corn—a sustainable alternative to coal. 

The shop also features local artists and authors from the community. You can find unique handcrafted jewelry, keychains, paintings, photography prints, books, clothing, and more, all produced by art and nature lovers near Perrysburg.

Adjoining this mini-bookstore is a room full of yarn, fabrics, buttons, needles, and anything one would want for their pet project. 

Buzz around in the Bee Room

The Bee Room hosts a hive of bees and many fun facts about them, including beekeeping. The Bee Room also has a corner dedicated to local fossils. In the winter, the puppets from outside in the kids area are relocated to the bee room, so it’s a great place to warm up and entertain the little ones.

Experience History at Log House

The Log House is a historical building dating back to 1804. Inside you can find furs, a rope bed, and even a chamber pot to transport you to life in the nineteenth century. Don’t worry, though—the inside has modern heating!

Bask in the Serenity of the Bird Blind

The Bird Blind may be the coldest activity on the grounds in winter; be sure to bundle up if you want to birdwatch! Enjoy watching Ohio’s winter birds, such as cardinals, bluejays, finches, woodpeckers, and more. You’re guaranteed to see squirrels at the feeders, too!

If winter isn’t your time of year, you can look forward to spring; on April 26, the 577 Foundation will host their Go Green Day, which “celebrates sustainability and conservation efforts, and encourages the public to recycle, reuse, and reduce waste to protect our natural environment,” according to Hirsh. The event will have craft activities, tours, live demonstrations, as well as Lyle’s Crepes food truck.

The 577 Foundation’s grounds are open everyday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but the Bee House, Geodesic Biodome, and Log House close at 4:30 p.m.. The Curiosity Shop is closed on Sundays.

You can find more information and register for classes on their website, 577foundation.org. 

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