NOTICE: UTMSI suffered damage in Hurricane Harvey. Our Port Aransas campus and the Bay Education Center in Rockport are currently closed. Thank you for your support and understanding.
Wetlands Education Center Tours
What: Did you ever want to visit and learn about a marsh without getting your feet wet? The Wetlands Education Center is a 2.6-acre wetland that is ADA compliant and will allow you to do just that, as you stroll through seagrass, salty marsh plants, and dunes. Visit during a free guided tour and you will learn about the special plants and animals of our local wetlands.
Where: Participants meet at the University of Texas Marine Science Education Center (855 East Cotter Ave., Port Aransas, Texas 78373)
When: Guided tours are free and available Tuesday and Thursday, at 10 a.m. (the trails are always open for self-guided walks)
Other: Groups over ten visitors that would like a guided tour of the Wetlands Education Center should set up a private tour.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - 361-749-3153
Bay Education Center (Science On a Sphere) programs (Rockport)
What: Visitors are invited to experience Science on a Sphere® to learn more about Earth’s oceans, land, atmosphere, and planetary neighbors. Science on a Sphere® is a spherical display system created by the National Oceanic land Atmospheric Administration that helps visitors see how global patterns, such as ocean circulation, weather, planetary movements, and climate affect our world.
Where: Bay Education Center located in downtown Rockport (121 Seabreeze Drive, Rockport Texas 78382)
When: Science on a Sphere® presentations are offered free to the public each Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 2 pm.
Other: Groups over ten visitors that would like a special screening of the Science On a Sphere should set up a private tour. The Bay Education Center has exhibits and is open Tuesday - Saturday from 1 - 4 p.m.
Contact: 361-729-2213, ext. 6816
Birding 101 for Kids
What: Each summer, children 7-16 years discover the joy of birding by participating in the class "Birding 101 for Kids." These introductory classes are designed to teach students the fundamentals of bird identification and at the same time give them a greater understanding of their local environment. Students are asked to bring their own binoculars if possible but we do have 8 pairs that we can loan out on a first come basis. Please dress for the weather and wear sunscreen, hat, etc. Classes are free and pre-registration is required. Parents are welcome to stay, or drop off their kids. Pick up and drop off are in the same location. Sponsored by The University of Texas Marine Science Institute, Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve, and The Coastal Bend Audubon Society.
Where and When:
June 6 Rockport Beach Front Park, Seabreeze Drive, Rockport Hours: 9-11 a.m.
June 7 Hans Suter Park, Ennis Joslin/Nile, Corpus Christi Hours: 9-11 a.m.
June 8 Port Aransas Birding Center, Ross Ave, Port Aransas Hours: 9-11 a.m.
Contact for Registration: Linda Fuiman at 361-749-6806 or 361-749-6805 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Estuary Explorers Program
What: In this program, children aged 6 and above will discover what it means to be a marine scientist. These are hands-on programs so be prepared to have fun and learn about the ocean! Parents must accompany children and participation is limited to the first 24 visitors, so please register in advance to secure your seat.
Fee: $5 per child. Register at https://goo.gl/w2ICMU
When: Saturdays; June 17, July 1 & 15; from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Where: University of Texas Marine Science Education Center located at 855 East Cotter Avenue, Port Aransas Texas 78373
Contact for information and registration: Nicole Pringle at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (361) 749-3153
Sea Stars Program
What: In this program, children aged 3-5 will explore the wonders of marine science. There will be lots to see, touch and learn about during this program. Be prepared to be inspired! Parents must accompany children and participation is limited to the first 24 visitors, so please register in advance to secure your seat.
Fee: $5 per child. Register at https://goo.gl/w2ICMU
When: Saturdays; June 24, July 8 & 29; from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Where: University of Texas Marine Science Education Center located at 855 East Cotter Avenue, Port Aransas Texas 78373
Contact for information and registration: Nicole Pringle at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (361) 749-3153
Download the map in PDF format with this link.
