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Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Burrowing owls Photo
Burrowing owls Photo
Kayaking Rookery Bay Photo 2
Kayaking Rookery Bay Photo 2

Explore the Environmental Learning Center. Interactive exhibits focus on the plants and animals of the 110,000-acre Rookery Bay Reserve. Aquariums, nature store, art gallery, walking trails and more introduce visitors to this coastal world. Guided tours of the 110,000-acre waterway reserve by boat or kayak.

Accessible Features
  • ADA Compliant
Activities
  • Birding
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Kayaking
  • Natural Wildlife Viewing
  • Shelling
Designations
  • COVID-19 Paradise Pledge Business
Discounts
  • Group Discount
  • Other Discount
Facility Amenities
  • Bus Parking
General Information
  • Dates Closed: Sundays and major holidays
  • Hours: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday -Saturday
Guest Information
  • Family Friendly
  • Meeting/Tour Groups Welcome
  • Pets on Leash Allowed
Payment Options
  • MasterCard
  • Personal Checks
  • Visa
Tour Information
  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided tours

Rookery Bay's Environmental Learning Center serves as an educational, research and training facility as well as an attraction. The visitor center features state-of-the-art exhibits and aquariums showcasing habitats and species found within the 110,000-acre Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Second-floor party or meeting space features floor-to-ceiling windows that provide outstanding views of Henderson Creek and the sunset over the estuarine wilderness beyond. In addition, we offer classrooms and meeting space, a 140-seat auditorium, an outside picnic area, lawns, gardens, walking trails with observation platforms over water, art gallery and nature-themed gift shop. We can accommodate day or evening functions for meetings, workshops, seminars, parties and gatherings, and offer use of modern audiovisual equipment and other technology to enhance and empower your presentation or event. Catering can be supplied from outside vendors and our picnic area offers a delightful space for a relaxed lunch, cocktail party, or formal dinner. Bus parking is available. Guided tours of the 110,000-acre waterway reserve are available by boat or kayak.

Meeting Supplier Category
  • Tours & Teambuilding