Ocean Exploration Center Grand Opening Celebration
Date & Time
Price FREE
Venue
REEF Campus
98380 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
GET DIRECTIONS
Phone Number 305.852.0030
Celebrate World Ocean Day like never before at the grand opening of the new REEF Ocean Exploration Center for Marine Conservation!
The Ocean Exploration Center is a cornerstone for marine conservation and education, bringing together science, art, and history to inspire and engage visitors of all ages. This brand new facility features interactive exhibits, inspiring programs, and opportunities to learn about the wonders of the underwater world.
Be part of history as we unveil this state-of-the-art space dedicated to marine science, conservation, and education. Dive into an unforgettable weekend full of fun, inspiration, and connection with fellow ocean enthusiasts.
Explore engaging displays on marine life, conservation, and the wonders of the underwater world. Try your hand at a Century Dive to find all 100 species represented in the Center. Explore a stunning sculpture of a Nassau Grouper spawning aggregation using cutting-edge conservation science technology. Learn more about the impacts of invasive lionfish and see if you can figure out where the collected lionfish was living and hunting through a simulated dissection as part of the “Crime Fish Investigation” game. Learn about how REEF programs have impacted conservation and science in oceans world-wide. All of this and more will keep you busy and having fun during your visit.
Join us for the official kick-off of this historic weekend! The Grand Opening Celebration will feature:
• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Be there for the moment the Ocean Exploration Center officially opens its doors. Celebrate this milestone for marine conservation and education!
• Lionfish Adventures: Learn about the invasive lionfish species and the impact it has on marine ecosystems. This interactive experience includes a live dissection demonstration, a chance to taste this delicious fish, and expert tips on how you can help mitigate the invasion.
• Microscope Marvels: Dive into the microscopic world of marine life with engaging, up-close views of coral polyps, plankton, and more using state-of-the-art equipment. Perfect for curious minds of all ages!
• Dry Fish Survey and Scavenger Hunt: Experience a dry version of the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project. Test your fish identification skills and see how many of the more than 100 species featured in the Center you can spot. Prizes and bragging rights are on the line!
We are excited to welcome several of our local food and drink vendors to the REEF Campus for this special day. Enjoy Craig's Food Truck, Polar Ice Snow Cones, and coffee from Cupacabana! We will also have delicious locally brewed beer from Florida Keys Brewing Company.
As part of REEF’s Oceans for All initiative, admission to the Ocean Exploration Center is always free, ensuring that everyone can connect with the ocean and be part of our mission to protect it.
