Woman holding binoculars Join today and get outside at one of our 60+ wildlife sanctuaries.
Woman holding binoculars Join today and get outside at one of our 60+ wildlife sanctuaries.
Snowy Egret standing on grassy island surrounded by water
Snowy Egret @ Clare Carvel

Programs for Groups at Joppa Flats

Joppa Flats Education Center in Newburyport offers a variety of fun and educational nature-based programs for community groups, adults, preschoolers,

Community Groups

Located at the gateway to Plum Island and the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Joppa Flats is the focus for birding and natural history exploration in the Great Marsh and beyond.

The Nature Center overlooks the Merrimack River includes second-floor observation areas-one indoors and one outdoors-a conference center, a guest services area, and interpretive displays.

Sample Program Offerings

  • Illustrated presentations
  • Birding field trips around the North Shore region
  • Unique projects including salt marsh restoration and bird banding 

Coastal Boat Cruises

Late spring and early fall are perfect times to bring your group out on the water for an ecology cruise on the Merrimack River! Ecology cruises can be customized to meet your needs for up to 38 passengers. Groups can enjoy a cruise upriver, through the Great Marsh, or into the Atlantic Ocean based on the tides.

Facility Rentals

We have facilities available for rent by private and public groups and organizations. Spaces include the Joppa Flats backyard, with a view overlooking the Merrimack River and marsh, and the Juliet Kellogg French room. We can provide coffee and tea but no kitchen is available.

To Schedule a Program

Learn more and book your next event by emailing us.