Attending programs in the Metro Parks can provide rewards in several ways. Besides providing new learning opportunities and lots of fun, visitors under the age of 18 can earn patches.

The new Metro Park Explorer program recognizes individuals who attend five programs within a 12-month period. Pick up a card available at any public program to track your attendance. After completing the fifth program, you will receive your Metro Park Explorer patch.

Each year, there will be a new patch featuring an animal or plant found in the Metro Parks. This program replaces the Budding Naturalist, Junior Naturalist and Heritage Explorer programs.