FLORIDA PLACE TO EXPLORE
Environmental Learning Center
Indian River County · Atlantic Coast
A 64-acre nature center at 255 Live Oak Drive, on an island in the Indian River Lagoon.
ABOUT THIS PLACE
It was founded in 1988 to teach people about the lagoon, which is the most biologically diverse estuary in North America and also one of the most troubled, and the teaching is the whole point of the place rather than a sideline. Miles of boardwalk run out through mangrove and hammock. Two thousand gallons of aquariums inside hold what lives in the water outside, with a touch tank and live animal exhibits. Pontoon boat eco-tours go out daily and kayaks and paddleboards can be rented. Guided nature and bird walks run on a schedule. Thousands of schoolchildren come through on field trips every year. There are rotating art galleries showing local and regional work, wellness programs, and a gift shop. It opens Monday to Friday from eight until five and on weekends from eight until four. Entry is ten dollars for an adult, eight for seniors and military, five for children between two and eleven
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