Is there a age limit for participation?

The events are designed for children ages 4 and up, but check specific age recommendations for each activity.

What should I do if my child has allergies?

Please notify staff in advance to accommodate allergy needs and avoid any issues.

Snacks are included, but you may also bring any special dietary items.

Can I stay during the event?

Parents are welcome to stay or drop off and pick up at the designated times.

What if my child needs special assistance?

Notify staff beforehand so accommodations can be made for individual needs.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Most activities are indoors, but outdoor segments may be rescheduled or moved indoors if necessary.

Family-Friendly Event at Marine Discovery Center

The Marine Discovery Center offers an engaging Parents Night Out that turns an ordinary evening into a memorable adventure for kids and families alike. Located along the scenic coast, this center combines fun, education, and creativity with seasonal activities tailored to spark curiosity. Whether it's spooky science experiments that make tiny hairs stand up or winter wonderland themed crafts, each event is packed with hands-on experiences that bring science and art together in a lively setting. Heart-themed art projects allow kids to express themselves while exploring themes of kindness and connection, all within a safe, welcoming environment. The center’s team designs these themed nights to cater to a wide age range, with games, crafts, and snacks that keep young adventurers engaged and excited.

What makes the Marine Discovery Center truly special is its commitment to making learning an adventure. Staff members are passionate about inspiring young minds, while the location itself, with ocean views and access to marine life exhibits, provides an authentic backdrop for discovery. These evenings are more than just babysitting; they’re a chance for kids to explore science through playful experimentation and for parents to enjoy a well-deserved break. The dynamic programming ensures each event feels fresh and exciting, highlighting seasonal themes that keep families coming back year-round.

The center’s dedication to community involvement and environmental education adds an extra layer of purpose to their activities. Parents and children leave with not only fun memories but also new insights into marine environments and ocean conservation. Perfect for families staying in or visiting the area, the Marine Discovery Center’s Parents Night Out offers a unique blend of education, creativity, and fun that stands out as a top local experience for all ages.

About Marine Discovery Center

Marine Discovery Center is a nonprofit marine education and conservation facility in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, situated on a 22-acre campus along the Indian River Lagoon. The center offers guided boat tours, kayak eco-tours, family programs, and sensory-accessible activities that connect visitors with the region's estuary and wildlife. Daily and scheduled offerings include two-hour Morning and Evening Dolphin Discovery Tours aboard the pontoon boat Discovery, guided by certified Florida naturalists who interpret local dolphins, sea turtles, and birdlife. Kayak Eco Tours and the Indian River Lagoon Preserve Kayak Tour provide two-hour guided paddling through mangroves with single and tandem kayaks available for beginners and families.

On the land-based campus, visitors can join the MDC Campus Tour to learn about restoration projects, the history of Mt. Morgan, gardens, and future plans; campus tours run Wednesday mornings or by request. Family-focused Sea Squirts parent-and-toddler programs for ages three to six run weekly on Wednesdays for nine weeks, with drop-in options offered. The Sense of Adventure program offers sensory‑engaged activities for individuals with disabilities and sensory sensitivities, designed for inclusive hands-on learning.

Marine Discovery Center emphasizes environmental education, hands-on interpretation, and stewardship of North America's biologically diverse estuary. Programs are led by trained staff and naturalists, combining outdoor exploration with conservation messaging to foster appreciation for the Indian River Lagoon and its wildlife. Visitor bookings support local conservation initiatives, educational outreach and habitat restoration projects focused on water quality species monitoring and native habitat protection across New Smyrna Beach and Indian River Lagoon.