GTM Research Reserve's Environmental Education Center provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for people of all ages to learn about the many functions of the coastal and estuarine ecosystem and the natural history of Northeast Florida. Staff-led programs are offered to school teachers, students (high school, college, and 7th grade LIFE program with partner schools), adults and environmental professionals. Volunteer-led programs are offered to 4th grade students. Other grade levels can participate on a self-guided visit or a guided tour by a GTM Research Reserve volunteer if available. Other programs at the center include Coastal Science Seminars, brown bag lunch programs on the first Friday of the month, guided walks, and nature movies on the weekends. Please call (904) 823-4500 for a list of special events and guided walks.

Educational Facilities

• Natural & cultural history exhibits.
• Aquariums.
• Teaching & working laboratories.
• Classrooms.
• An audiovisual theatre/auditorium.
• A nature store.

Outdoor Recreational Activities

• An outdoor amphitheatre.
• A picnic pavilion.
• 10 miles of hiking trails for pedestrians, equestrians or bicyclists.
• 3 beach access points.
• A fishing area.
• 2 small boat ramps.

The Environmental Education Center is open daily 9 am – 4 pm with the exception of state holidays. Admission is $2 for adults, $1 for children age 10 to 17 and free for children under age 10. (GTM Research Reserve annual pass holders get in free!). In the center there are a variety of nature exhibits and scavenger hunts for the kids (and adults) to complete. There is also a 19 minute introductory video that plays in the AV room all day.

Located at 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. (Off A1A 8 miles north of Vilano Beach/St. Augustine or 17 miles south of J.T.Butler Blvd. Jacksonville Beach. (904) 823-4500).