The American Ornithological Society (AOS) is offering several options for excursions during AOS 2025 in St. Louis. Join us for a birding adventure to the Audubon Center at Riverlands on Monday morning; or for a paddling trip on the Mississippi River with Big Muddy Adventures on Wednesday and Thursday evenings during AOS 2025.
AOS 2025 Organized Field Trips
Birding at the Heart of the Mississippi River
Date: Monday, 11 August 2025
Time: Meet at 7:00 a.m. for bus pick-up at Hyatt Regency. Bird and learn for approximately 2.5 hours before hopping back on the bus to return by 11:00 Aa.m..
Location: Audubon Center at Riverlands (301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386) – transportation will be provided.
Capacity: Limited to 35 participants max; requires a minimum of 15 participants.
Cost: $35 per person
Deadline to register: 21 July 2025
Start your AOS 2025 Meeting week with a peaceful morning of birding at one of the Midwest’s premier birding hotspots at the Audubon Center at Riverlands. Located on the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary just 30 minutes north of St. Louis city, Riverlands is home to expansive wetlands, grasslands, and riverfront habitat that attracts shorebirds, waterfowl, and songbirds. Expert guides will lead small groups along accessible trails and viewing platforms as you take in the sights and sounds of this dynamic conservation area. This experience is open to all level of birders and nature lovers. Walking will be minimal and done on accessible trails and pavement. Binoculars can be provided if needed. Coffee and light breakfast snacks will be available.
Big Muddy Paddling Trips
Downtown Microadventure Paddle with Big Muddy Adventures (Two options!)
Dates: Wednesday, 13 August; or Thursday, 14 August 2025
Time: Meet at 6:30 p.m. for drinks and snacks, followed by a safety briefing and paddling demo. The adventure wraps up by 8:30–9:00 p.m.
Location: Riverfront levee (approximately 0.7 mi walk from Hyatt)
Capacity: Limited to 27 participants per trip
Cost: $40 per person
Deadline to register: 21 July 2025
Join fellow AOS attendees for an unforgettable evening on the Mississippi River with Big Muddy Adventures! This Downtown Microadventure offers a unique 45-minute paddling trip through the heart of St. Louis. After meeting on the riverfront levee, we’ll shuttle a short distance to our put-in on Laclede’s Landing. From there, we’ll paddle upstream past historic landmarks and under the iconic Eads Bridge—the oldest bridge on the Mississippi—before turning downstream for spectacular views of the Gateway Arch and the downtown skyline. This trip is suitable for all skill levels—no prior paddling experience needed. Don’t miss this fun and scenic way to experience St. Louis from the water!
Instructions for Big Muddy Adventures Registration
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