The Volusia County Marine Science Center Has Reopened After Extensive Renovations!

After a nine-month-long, $4.2 million renovation project, the Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet has reopened with even more incredible features to aid visitors in their quest to explore the wonders of local marine life, including an upgraded aquarium deck and brand new 1,500 square foot education building. Other facility highlights include a 5,000 gallon artificial reef habitat aquarium, a 1,300 gallon touch tank complete with cownose rays, a sea turtle observation terrace, a 2,600 square foot gallery with mangrove, dune and jetty ecosystem exhibits and a two-story observation tower offering spectacular views of Ponce de Leon Inlet and its unique natural habitat.

The mission of Volusia County Marine Science Center is to conserve and protect our precious marine environment through education and stewardship. It’s a place where visitors can witness sea turtle and seabird rehabilitation firsthand, take advantage of amazing local marine life programming – such as stingray feeding and live raptor presentations, experience hands-on learning experiences in a teaching lab and meander through scenic nature trails. There are also daily presentations, camps and Turtle Tots – a program where children from two to five years of age can learn about marine life through interactive activities, stories and crafts.

Since opening in 2002, the Volusia County Marine Science Center has hosted more than a million visitors and cared for over 27,000 sea turtles and more than 19,000 birds representing hundreds of species. For more information about hours, programs and event scheduling, call 386-304-5545.