Group Visit FAQ

1. How much time should we plan for a guided field walk and a tour of the museum exhibits?
Our guided field walks may be tailored to the interests of your group but typically you should plan for 1 ½ hours for the complete experience. In addition most visitors spend between 1 and 2 hours in the exhibit halls and marine room, where there are over 60 species of live animals in tanks.

2. Are there tours appropriate for pre-school children?
The museum offers tours for all age groups. We are cognizant of the attention span of younger children and plan those trips accordingly.

3. Are there specialized field walks?
Our special options include seine netting, mud flat tours, teacher orientations and special interest adult groups.

4. Do we need reservations for group admissions?
Definitely. Our spring schedule is usually full by March and we must limit the number of people in the museum and on the trails for the benefit of our visitors. Please call the office as soon as your plans are complete.

5. Do we need special equipment for the trail walks?
No, but we do recommend comfortable walking shoes, water shoes if you plan on wading into the tidal pools, insect repellant and sunscreen. Although no specimens may be taken from the beach or bay, those opting for the mud flat walk are advised to bring a digging tool and pail.

6. Are there outdoor facilities for lunch, etc.?
Yes, there are picnic tables on our grounds as well as outdoor toilets for your convenience. Our staff can give you advice regarding nearby family restaurants for lunch or dinner.

7. What options do we have if the weather is inclement when we arrive for our field walk?
Our naturalist guides are prepared to go out in rainy weather (but not in thunderstorms) if the group leader decides to go. There are indoor auditorium programs that may be available depending upon the expertise of the naturalist.

8. Can auditorium programs be scheduled in advance?
Yes, we have PowerPoint programs on insects, bats, whales, birds, astronomy, Cape flora, Cape archaeology and the history of the saltworks industry. Once again, make your reservation for any of these programs well in advance.

If you have any other questions please contact Group Reservations at 508.896.3867 extension 112.