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Hands-on science for young explorers

Maritime Discovery Lab

A 90-minute, hands-on lab for ages 6–12, built around each month's shoreline theme.

  • Kids
  • Families
Close-up of a fiddler crab on wet marsh mud, raising its one oversized orange claw.

The Maritime Discovery Lab is where curiosity gets its hands wet. Over about ninety minutes, young explorers work through hands-on stations built around the month’s theme. One month it might be the moon and the tides; another, the sharks of the Atlantic coast.

There is plenty of room for questions, predictions and “what if we tried…”. The aim is simple: to leave knowing a little more about the River and the Sound, and wanting to find out more.

What you’ll do

  • Explore the month's theme at hands-on stations, from tides and horseshoe crabs to lighthouses and sharks.
  • Ask questions, make predictions and test them, the way scientists do.
  • Look closely with simple tools such as hand lenses, maps and models.
  • Take home an idea to try on your next visit to the shore.

Upcoming dates

Dates are being confirmed now. Ask us and we will let you know when registration opens.

Questions

Do I need to stay with my child?
Yes. During our first year, all youth programs are family-attended, so a parent or guardian stays for the whole session.
Does the topic change?
Yes. Each month has its own shoreline theme, so returning explorers find something new each time.
How much does it cost?
Fees are being finalized and will be posted here before registration opens. If cost is a barrier, please talk to us.
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    • Families
    • Kids
    • Indoors

    Family Maritime Night

    A monthly evening for the whole family

    A relaxed monthly evening of shoreline discovery for children and grown-ups together.

    All ages, children with their families

  • A rocky tide pool with seaweed, barnacles, periwinkle snails and a small crab resting under clear water.
    • Walks & tours
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    • Outdoors

    Guided Nature Walks

    Shoreline explorations

    Small-group walks across tidal flats, salt marsh and tide pools, led by trained volunteer guides.

    All ages. Under-18s walk with a parent or guardian.

  • Blue crabs on a weathered wooden dock beside a wire crab pot, with a harbor village and moored boats beyond.
    • Walks & tours
    • Adults
    • Outdoors

    Maritime History Walking Tours

    Local lore & legends

    Walking tours of shoreline villages and burial grounds, sharing the maritime history and legends of the lower Connecticut River.

    Teens and adults; families welcome

Have a question about this program?

We are happy to help you decide whether it is a good fit.

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