Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
A great way to explore and appreciate the beautiful Southwest Florida outdoors is at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, located within the 110,000-acre Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Aquariums, interactive exhibits, daily naturalist-led programs, easy walking trails, kayak trips and afternoon cruises are just some ways to learn about this part of the Western Everglades.
Special events such as the Southwest Florida Nature Festival (January), Dive Into Oceans Day (spring) and National Estuaries Day (September) provide unique opportunities to get on the water or behind-the-scenes with experts on the flora and fauna of the area.
A Lunch & Learn Lecture Series runs seven months of the year, and Kids Free Fridays each summer offers a free education program for children 12 and younger (accompanied by an adult).
Changing exhibits in the Art Gallery feature nature-themed shows, and the Batfish Bash signature event provides support for the reserve’s operations.
