Events at this location

The Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center is a state-of-the-art, family-friendly facility located within the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Naples, Florida. Spanning 110,000 acres of pristine mangrove forests, uplands, and protected waters, the reserve is one of the few remaining undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America. The center serves as an educational hub for exploring the unique estuarine ecosystem where rivers meet the sea, supporting diverse wildlife like 150 bird species, manatees, sharks, and threatened/endangered animals. Key Features and Exhibits • Aquariums and Hands-On Displays: A centerpiece 2,300-gallon mangrove aquarium features a 14-foot sculpted red mangrove tree with a climb-in “bubble” for close-up views of fish and prop roots. There’s also a 180-gallon Marine Life Exhibit mimicking the natural environment with rock formations and local species, plus a touch tank for interactive marine exploration. • Cultural and Historical Exhibits: The second floor highlights 3,000 years of human use in the estuary, including a topographic map of prehistoric/historic sites, a storytelling booth with pioneer settler memories, and a tribute to the 1960s conservation efforts that saved Rookery Bay from development. • Facilities: The 16,500-square-foot air-conditioned center includes four research laboratories, classrooms, a 140-seat auditorium, walking trails, an art gallery, and a gift shop. Visiting Information • Hours: Open Tuesday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (closed Sundays, Mondays, and holidays). Check the website for closures due to maintenance or events. • Admission Fees: ◦ Adults: $10 ◦ Children (4–12): $5 ◦ Children (3 and under): Free ◦ Free for Friends of Rookery Bay members, Association of Nature Center Administrators reciprocal members, active/retired military (up to 6 family members), and Blue Star Museums participants (Memorial Day–Labor Day for active-duty military). ◦ Museums for All: $1 per person (up to 4) with SNAP EBT card. • Location: 300 Tower Road, Naples, FL 34113. Free parking available. • Trails and Outdoor Access: 1.5 miles of easy, stroller-accessible walking paths along mangroves and pine flatwoods, with observation platforms over Henderson Creek. Primitive trails (Snail Trail, Catbird, Slash Pine) are available in cooler months (closed summers). Kayak and boat launches are nearby. Activities and Eco-Tours • Guided Tours (November–April, ages 12+): Kayak tours through mangrove tunnels, boat eco-tours for wildlife viewing and photography. Proceeds support the Friends of Rookery Bay nonprofit. • Events: Family programs, kids’ birthday parties with crafts, lectures, classes (e.g., birding, photography, forest bathing), art receptions, and annual events like Bash for the Bay, Festival of Birds, and Community Day (often free). • Outdoor Recreation: Kayaking, boating, camping, fishing, shelling, beachgoing, and birdwatching throughout the reserve. Conservation and Support The center emphasizes education, research, and stewardship, hosting over 50,000 adult visitors annually and inspiring students through programs. It’s supported by the Friends of Rookery Bay, a nonprofit focused on fundraising, volunteering, and connecting people with the coastal environment. Donations and memberships help protect the habitat. For the latest events, tours, or reservations, visit the official website at rookerybay.org or call 239-530-5940. As of October 2025, the center remains a top-rated attraction for eco-education in Southwest Florida, with glowing reviews for its knowledgeable staff and immersive exhibits.