Meig’s Point Nature Center

8/10 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊Mommy Approved Smiling Faces

1288 Boston Post Road

Madison, Connecticut 06443

(inside Hammonasset State Park )

https://www.meigspointnaturecenter.org/

A pleasant surprise at Meig’s Point :

I was excited to explore Meig’s Point Nature Center with the kids although we had heard nothing about it.  We happened to find it when we were biking in Hammonasset Beach, but it was closed at the time.  Once it reopened I decided we had to check it out.  I was surprised to see how beautiful this Nature Center is.  My opinion was being based off the sign that looks weathered and in need of replacement, the interior of this building is the complete opposite of that with modern and captivating spaces throughout.  There are animals (both living and taxidermy ) with information to see and learn about in each room.  The building feels fresh and inviting.  The uniqueness of the Nature Center really stands out from the view on the front lawn seeing the large decorative seashells and the metal statues in the garden.

My daughter gave me a hard time about visiting Meig’s Nature Center because she just wanted to go to the beach.  But once she was inside, she loved it.  Both my kids did.  My son loves reptiles so the room with the many snakes and turtles was his favorite.  My daughter loved the aquarium room because she and my son are big crab catchers on a regular basis.

What I like most about the location is that besides the fact that it is located on the beautiful Hammonasset Beach in a gorgeous building, it has only local creatures to learn about.  All the snakes, turtles and other animals featured by the nature center are residents of the area.  With that being said, your kids may encounter these animals in your backyard, out hiking or in any other familiar place.  It’s good to gain knowledge about your surroundings and respect for all nature’s creatures.  If they see any of these residents outside, they will be able to perhaps identify and know a bit of it’s characteristics, thus giving them a sense of pride.  Another reason is that it is a FREE, amazing and educational way to enjoy time with the kids.  My kids willingly learn about nature and enjoy being hands-on in general.  So Meig’s Point checks all our boxes for a great time.  Don’t you agree?  If so, you must check this place out.

The Skinny:

• Weather : Ideally a good day weather-wise would be a plus because the gardens here as well as the rest of Hammonasset Park are gorgeous to explore
• Parking and Admissions : FREE admissions once you enter Hammonasset Beach ( which is free of charge for Connecticut residents.  Click here to see the fees if you are coming from out-of state. ) There is plenty of parking with a huge lot close to this nature center.
• Location : Gardens and an indoor Aquarium / Nature center that is hands-on to teach kids about local animals
• Hours :  Tuesday – Sunday 10-4
• Duration : We stayed an hour or so and could have stayed longer. It’s not a big place at all probably 4-5 rooms to explore.
• Tips and Recommendations :  Do take advantage of this FREE activity.  The kids and YOU will love it.  It’s a nice break inside if you are getting too hot from the sun. There is a bike rack out in front of the nature center if you choose to bike in.

Jewel Approved: 👍🏼

Jamison Approved: 👍🏼

If you haven’t been to Hammonasset Beach you can read all about it here.   We love it there because there is so much to do-it is more than a beach.  Other coastal areas close by include Rocky Neck State Park and Niantic Children’s Museum.  Happy exploring!