The newly renovated Patton Center for Marine Science Education is open to the public starting October 18, 2022. The Center features eight large aquaria and engaging interactive displays, that will provide opportunities for people of all ages to learn about the local marine life and the research that is conducted at the University Marine Science Institute and its Mission-Aransas Reserve program.
The Center was severely damaged by Hurricane Harvey in 2017 and was renovated with support from the University of Texas at Austin, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 and Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act, 2017), and philanthropists Bobby and Sherri Patton. The space has since been transformed into a bright and dynamic facility to teach about the wonders of the local marine ecosystems. The Center was designed by Turner | Ramirez Architects and constructed by Beecroft Construction. Both firms are based in Corpus Christi, Texas.
The Center is free of charge and will be open Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. The Center will include programs such as keeper chats and fish feeding demonstrations.
Education programs for large groups are available by reservation. The Center is located at 855 East Cotter Avenue in Port Aransas, Texas.
