Begin around the central park and surrounding streets for a short introduction to everyday city life. Include a rest stop and use pedestrian crossings when moving between blocks.

Watch flowering plants in a public green space for visiting bees, butterflies or birds. Sightings vary with weather and flowering conditions; observation is an activity, not a wildlife guarantee.

Read about the municipality’s approach to pollination and urban well-being. Ask the family how trees, flowers and pleasant public spaces can benefit both people and wildlife.

Choose two nearby public spaces and compare shade, vegetation and the sounds you hear. Discuss what makes one space comfortable for people and useful for other living things.

Build a café, bakery or soda into your outing. A relaxed meal helps keep a city exploration manageable for younger children.

After observing real plants, sketch a small garden with flowers and shelter. Use local plant guidance when choosing species to grow and avoid touching or collecting insects.