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Discover the Explorer's Outpost at The Schiele Museum — A Must-Visit for Nature Lovers

  • Writer: Melissa McCauley
    Melissa McCauley
  • 3 hours ago
  • 3 min read

Child in blue hoodie gazes through orange binoculars, framed by a textured, gray tree-like structure, conveying curiosity and playfulness at Schiele Museum Explorers Outpost


Sign reads "Explorer's Outpost" with a globe and magnifying glass graphic. Sponsored by Enbridge.

If you love the outdoors and enjoy hands-on learning, there's a new adventure waiting for you at The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia. The museum has just opened the Explorer's Outpost, a bright and imaginative new space where curiosity comes alive. It's a place where kids — and kids at heart — can connect with nature in fun, interactive ways that spark wonder and exploration.


Children's play area with a textured tree, log cabin, and forest mural. Bright stools and leaf-patterned rug on a wooden stage. Cozy vibe at the Exploerer's Outpost at Schiele Museum

Nature Discovery, Indoors and Out at Explorer's Outpost at The Schiele Museum

Inside the Explorer's Outpost, visitors can climb a rock wall modeled after a waterfall, crawl through a cozy cave, and peek into a rustic log cabin surrounded by towering manufactured trees. Every corner encourages hands-on discovery, from studying plants and animals up close to learning how ecosystems work. The museum's educators lead ever-changing activities built around monthly themes such as nocturnal animals, geology, and arctic ecosystems, ensuring every visit brings something new.


The Outpost also serves as a home base for Kid's Quest Afterschool Adventures, The Schiele's popular afterschool program that helps local students explore science and nature through play and creativity.


Explore Even More at The Schiele Museum

The Explorer's Outpost is just one reason to plan a visit to The Schiele Museum. Step outside and stroll along the Nature Trail, a peaceful escape that winds through native plant life and local habitats — an easy way to immerse yourself in the natural landscape of Gaston County.


Red brick building with a dome roof, labeled Schiele Museum of Natural History and Lynn Planetarium.

Inside, The Schiele offers even more ways to explore the natural world:


  • North Carolina Natural History Exhibit: Discover the beauty and biodiversity of our state! Artfully designed dioramas showcase the coastline, Piedmont, and mountain regions — complete with the wildlife that calls each area home.

  • The Farm (sponsored by Gaston County Farm Bureau): Meet live animals, explore local plants, and learn about the role farming has played in shaping our region. This interactive outdoor experience connects visitors to North Carolina's agricultural roots.

  • Henry Hall of the American Indian: Explore stunning depictions of major tribal groups across North America. Artifacts, tools, ornaments, and dwellings reveal the depth and artistry of Native cultures — a reminder of the people who lived in harmony with the land long before us. There is also the outdoor Catawba Indian Village. (Note: Check the Schiele's website for open hours for the outdoor village.)

  • DinoSafari: Step back in time to encounter life-sized dinosaurs and fossils that bring prehistoric creatures to life.

  • Cats Untamed: Meet the world's most fascinating felines — from small wildcats to mighty predators — and discover how these animals thrive in nature.

  • Friends Not Foes: Snakes of the Carolinas: Learn about these often-misunderstood reptiles and their vital role in our local ecosystems.


Man, woman, and child walking out of the Planetarium at Schiele Museum.

And don't forget to look up — the James H. Lynn Planetarium offers an unforgettable journey through the stars, planets, and galaxies, connecting the natural world of Earth to the vastness of space.


Plan Your Visit

The Explorer's Outpost is open daily and included with museum admission:


  • Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  • Sunday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM


No matter your age, The Schiele Museum is a place where curiosity thrives — from climbing waterfalls indoors to spotting wildlife along the Nature Trail. It's a must-see destination for anyone who loves nature, science, and discovery.


Enbridge logo with black text and a yellow swirl design on a white background.

A Note of Thanks

The new Explorer's Outpost was made possible through the generous support of Enbridge Gas NC, helping The Schiele Museum continue its mission to inspire wonder and connection with the natural world.


Learn more about exhibits, programs, and upcoming events at schielemuseum.org.

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