The Jersey shore is more than sandy beaches and ferris wheels. There are lots of creatures that call special areas of the Shore home, and you can have fun while you meet them at The Wetlands Institute. 

Touch a sea star – and more 

Hang out with the sea stars, sea urchins, mud snails and more creatures that call the Wetlands home during the institute’s touch tank sessions. Not only will you get to hold some of these cool creatures, but aquarium experts will share fun facts, eating habits and information about their habitats. The sessions are free with admission. 

Watch the world series of birding 

Each year, NJ Audubon hosts the World Series of Birding, and the Wetlands Institute is a hotspot for teams who are competing to spot the most species of birds. In fact, last year’s winning team for Cape May County only birding – the all-women Marshketeers – were sure to stop at the Institute to catch some birds. This year, the world series will take place on May 9. 

Craft by the water 

Learn, but make it fun. Every Saturday at 2 pm, visitors gather for a live animal presentation where you can get up-close-and-personal with turtles, fish, crabs and more. (Think Finding Nemo, but in real life.) Then, you can make your own craft to take home! 

Be a scientist 

The Institute is the perfect place to let your scientist dreams come true – under expert supervision, of course. In the winter, the site hosts self-guided science activities related to migration, geology, outdoor exploration and more. And in the warmer months, visitors can venture into the bay and help experts explore the shallow waters with a net to learn about what’s swimming and sitting on the shores.