Here's what they did well. The building, which is on Federal land in the saltwater marsh, is reached by natural-gas powered shuttle bus. We got a warm greeting from the driver, several eco-messages, and the feeling of going on a special journey. The building is designed to evoke "boat house" and looks comfortable on its site.
The animals' enclosures were spotless and everything looked incredibly healthy. CVNC is one of only four nature centers in the U.S. that is accredited by the American Association of Museums; it was the first. Some highlights were this exhibit panel in the shark and ray exhibition explaining why we shouldn't dump pollutants into storm drains. If you drop a coin into the "storm drain" it rolls downhill and ends up in the fish's mouth. (Shout-out here to artist extraordinaire Jim Melli of the San Diego Natural History Museum who did the watercolors and the bronzes for CVNC.)
Outdoors, you can meet a coyote (life-size, also by Melli) and learn about their role in the habitat.
Kids no taller than that blue sign in the back (darn!) can climb in the marsh bird's nest and feel how it floats.
Animals were displayed in enclosures built into large photos of their native habitat. All signs were bilingual (English/Spanish) with each having its own color, but equivalent size/weight fonts.
Recycled benches were topped with tiled mosaics, tying them into the content as well as upgrading the look.
At $6 per adult, it's an incredible deal. And I haven't even walked out into the marsh yet! I'm looking forward to going back and spending some time there.
Tip of the day: I've said it before, but attention to detail is key. The only negative aspect of this experience is at the beginning, as the parking lot and shuttle stop are not ideal. (Neither are under the control of CVNC.) Executing your details with artistry, and caring deeply about your subject matter, create a feeling of quality that sets you apart.
Technorati Tags: customer experience, Chula Vista Nature Center, attention to detail, Jim Melli, visitor experience
