Iglesia de San Nicolás | Barranquilla

Information

Landmark: Iglesia de San Nicolás
City: Barranquilla
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

Iglesia de San Nicolás, Barranquilla, Colombia, South America

The Anne Kolb Nature Center is a 23-acre environmental education facility located in West Lake Park, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Visual Characteristics

The center features a 3,500-square-foot nature center building constructed with concrete block and stucco, painted in muted earth tones. It includes a 68-foot observation tower offering panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding parkland consists of mangrove forests, salt marshes, and a freshwater lake.

Location & Access Logistics

The Anne Kolb Nature Center is situated at 751 Silver Lake Drive, Hollywood, FL 33019, within West Lake Park. It is approximately 10 miles south of Fort Lauderdale's city center. Access is via Northlake Boulevard, turning onto Silver Lake Drive. Ample free parking is available within West Lake Park. Public transport options include Broward County Transit bus route 1, which stops near the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Anne Kolb Nature Center was established in 1996. The land it occupies is part of the coastal mangrove ecosystem, a critical habitat for numerous bird and marine species. The center was named in honor of Anne Kolb, a former Broward County Commissioner who advocated for environmental preservation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the mangrove boardwalks, which provide access to the salt marsh and observation areas. The nature center building houses exhibits on local flora and fauna. Kayak and canoe rentals are available for exploring the waterways. Fishing is permitted in designated areas. Guided nature walks are offered on select days.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the nature center building and at various points within West Lake Park. Shaded picnic areas are located throughout the park. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors are not present within the nature center itself, but concessions are available at the adjacent West Lake Park marina.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting on the mangrove ecosystems. The dry season, from November to April, offers the most pleasant weather with lower humidity and less rainfall. High tide is generally preferred for kayaking and canoeing to access more areas of the waterways.

Facts & Legends

The mangrove forests at the Anne Kolb Nature Center serve as a vital nursery ground for many fish species, including snapper and tarpon, supporting local fisheries. A unique tip for visitors is to look for the resident manatees that often frequent the canals near the nature center, particularly during cooler months.