The Nature Center’s mission is to offer inspiring, hands-on environmental education experiences, to foster an appreciation of nature, and to promote sustainable practices. The Nature Center hosts eco-friendly or “green” birthday parties where you can celebrate your child’s special day and the wonders of nature. We offer many different themed parties that are fun and educational. Your guests can also enjoy exploring our nature preserve, including our Nature’s Discovery Playground and outdoor animal displays, either before or after the party.

An aquarium devoted to Long Island Sound, with sharks, seals, sea turtles, jellies & more, plus marine-science programs for schools & the public, including hands-on cruises onto the Sound. The Maritime Aquarium features some 7,000 marine animals of 300 species, including harbor seals, 9-foot sharks, curious river otters, loveable sea turtles, pulsing jellyfish and more – all native to nearby Long Island Sound and its watershed.  These animals serve as ambassadors both for their species and the Sound’s natural environment. Guests' intimate encounters are the heart of the learning experience ... and the inspiration for new generations of Long Island Sound stewards. Hands-on experiences include: an Intertidal Touch Tank with sea stars, crabs and other shoreline creatures; a Shark & Ray Touch Pool with graceful creatures that don’t mind a stroke on the back; and Jiggle A Jelly, letting guests do something they’ve been told all their lives NOT to do: touch live jellies.