Looking for a hands-on educational experience for the whole family? Look no further than the variety of nature education centers across Sussex County.
Abbott’s Mill Nature Center
Milford
Visit this center that’s located on a 376-acre piece of Milford Millponds Nature Preserve. Spend a day out in nature on the trails, woodlands, garden and 20-acre pond. Then, take a step into the center for a live animal collection and taxidermy displays.
Baldcypress Nature Center
Laurel
This educational center is centered around Delaware’s connection to water and the Chesapeake. Check out an 18-foot replica bald cypress tree, 500-gallon floor aquarium and a waterfall feature filled with fish species found in Trap Pond State Park. A virtual Trap Pond pontoon tour is also on-site.
Bethany Beach Nature Center
Bethany Beach
Take a break from the sand and surf in this center offering interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities focused on the First State’s inland bays and wetlands. Plus, don’t forget to take a walk along the Baldwin Trail to view 100-plus species of wild birds, diamondback terrapins, minnows, reptiles and amphibians.
DuPont Nature Center
Milford
Located at the meeting of the Mispillion River, Cedar Creek and the Delaware Bay, this center tells the story of human activity in Mispillion Harbor, the tidal marsh and the Bay. Visitors can try a multitude of educational experiences including field excursions, lectures and hands-on activities. Don’t forget the observation deck to spot various shorebirds. Surrounding the center is an estuary habitat with more than 130 species of birds, fish, shellfish and other animals.
Fort Miles Museum and Historical Area
Lewes
Located in Cape Henlopen State Park, Battery 519 is a 15,000-square-foot fortified underground chamber. Through exhibitions and artifacts, visitors can learn about World War II through the lens of the First State. The museum’s armaments collections allow visitors to see what was used to defend the nation. Don’t forget to climb the spotting tower for a view of the water.
Indian River Life-Saving Station
Rehoboth Beach
Originally built in 1876 for the United States Life-Saving Service, this fully restored station includes maritime exhibitions and historic reenactments. Watch demonstrators as they showcase turn-of-the-century techniques to save sailing ships.
Seaside Nature Center
Lewes
Visitors come to Cape Henlopen State Park to check out Seaside’s 300-gallon, two-level touch tank that allows multiple viewpoints through windows. Also check out the five 1,000-gallon tanks with local fish, a habitat exhibition and a live Osprey camera to watch the bird in its natural habitat.
