One of my favorite things to do when Field Trip Girl was a preschooler was to take her on nature walks and explore nature centers in our area.
Back in the spring of 2013, Field Trip Girl and I attended The Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center’s Tideland Tykes program.
On select Thursdays, from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m, children ages 2-5 years old, are invited to join the preserve staff for a fun-filled parent & child experience.
The morning includes:
arts and crafts and hands-on activities
storytelling
outdoor nature walks
The cost is $5.00 per child and pre-registration is required.
The Muth Center serves as model for protecting and preserving open space and endangered wetlands in a highly populated urban setting.
Inside you will find hands-on learning activities and displays about life in and around the estuary. There is a movie to view and and a ranger on hand to answer questions.
The Newport Back Bay is a great place for families to hike. The Back Bay is a salt marsh estuary that is home to many birds and several endangered species.
You can take stroll down the many pathways and enjoy panoramic views of the Back Bay. The weather is also cooler with a breeze coming off the ocean. Just make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat though!
The Interpretive Center is located at 2301 University Drive in Newport Beach, CA 92660. Please note that you will not see the building from the street. Park in the lot and follow the walking trail to the building.
They are open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is FREE but a small donation is appreciated. To learn more, visit http://newportbay.org/education/interpretive-center-programs/.
Happy Field Tripping!
Jilleen