Learning About Sea Life at the Seacoast Science Center in Rye

The Seacoast Science Center in Rye, NH, has been on our radar for a while and we finally made it over during our vacation week.  It’s a great place for the kiddos to learn about the local marine ecosystem and have the opportunity to see some sea life in person! It’s located in Odiorne State Park so there is also the opportunity to explore outside after visiting the museum. In fact, the Seacoast Science Center offers programs throughout the day and some include exploring the near-by intertidal zones.  It is important to note, however, that you may have to pay admission to BOTH the park and the Science Center (learn more about that here).

Upon checking into the Science Center, L was given a scavenger hunt to complete during our visit; she earned a sticker when she completed it!

Our favorite part was exploring the Touch Tanks.  L and Little Man were able to reach into the (cold) water and hold starfish and sea urchins!

There is also an exhibit that contains many of the sea creatures found in the Gulf of Maine.  We saw some very cool luminous jelly fish,

a white lobster,

and a friendly skate!

As I mentioned above, the Science Center has programs throughout the day, including close encounters with sea creatures.  The day we were there, L got to meet a horseshoe crab and learn all about it – including the fact that it has 10 eyes! Who knew!?

For the littles, there is a play area with a boat, some fabric sea life, and a little play seafood market.  Little Man had fun exploring the play space!

After we were done exploring the Science Center, we went out side and walked through the park a bit.  L and her Dad enjoyed a beautiful view,

and we eventually ended up at a great playground! There were separate structures for the older and younger kids,

as well as 4 toddler swings (with a view!) and some big kid swings, as well.

We very much enjoyed our time at the Science Center; L definitely enjoyed it more, as it’s geared a bit more for older kids.  It wasn’t a whole day adventure for us, so we combined it with a trip to Portsmouth; you could also combine it with a beach trip to Wallis Sands or another local beach.  If you’re in the area, the Seacoast Science Center is a fun place to visit and learn about the local sea life!

I hope that your family enjoys this adventure as much as mine did!