Joppa Flats Education Center

Snowy Owl perched on a wooden structure on the beach at Joppa Flats Education Center in winter © Michael Francis
Snowy Owl © Michael Francis

Overlooking the Merrimack River and near the entrance to Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, the Joppa Flats Education Center offers unique educational opportunities for people of all ages. Here, you can explore the region’s wildlife-rich habitats (salt marshes, mudflats, rivers, bays, and coastal waters) through guided tours, marine touch tanks, art exhibits, drop-in programs, and interpretive displays. 

Location1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport, MA 01950
Phone: 978-462-9998
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 8:30 am-4:00 pm • Closed Monday (except holidays)

More information, property regulations, & directions >

Online Programs - Promo for All Sancs

Online Programs

Hummingbird © Eduardo del Solar
© Eduardo del Solar

Explore nature with us online, from summer night sounds to annual migrations. Coming up next >

Go Birding

A Birding Hotspot

Located on the Atlantic Flyway, Joppa Flats hosts a wide variety of birds year-round. Go birding >

Sanctuary News & Events

Big Sit Brant Superbowl afternoon team 1-28-23

Joppa Flats Education Center

We sat down with Kari Sasportas, leader of the award-winning “Big Sit Brant” team at the 2023 Superbowl of Birding, to learn more about their experience at Joppa Flat’s annual birding competition.

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Upcoming Programs

May 31, 2023 (Wednesday) 9:30am-12:30pm
A 27-year-old Wednesday morning tradition in Essex County for birders of all skill levels. Discover the ever-changing birds in this famously productive area. Read more
June 2, 2023 (Friday) 8:00-11:00am
Take full advantage of spring migration and get out early when birds are most active. Look and listen for shorebirds, warblers, vireos, flycatchers, and more. Read more
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