Family Drop-in Programs at Joppa Flats

Throughout the year, Joppa Flats Education Center in Newburyport offers family-friendly drop-in programs. These programs, which are geared to families with children ages 3-12, are free but donations are encouraged. 

Types of Programs

Touch Tank Time!  

Touch and hold hermit crabs, moon snails, sea urchins and more! Come see what sand and tiny seashells look like 200x magnified and spend some time in our Kid Zone with a science station, take-home craft and coloring pages.  

Meet Beach Creatures  

Spend time handling tide pool creatures such as sea urchins and sea stars, meet moon snails and hermit crabs from the sandy beach, and learn about minnows and horseshoe crabs from the salt marsh. Enjoy viewing our aquarium tanks and interacting with live marine animals, visiting our self-guided science stations, and creating a craft to take home.  

Seasonal Family Open Houses

Celebrate the season with science stations, outdoor activities, and nature crafts!

Upcoming Schedule