Mystic Aquarium's founder, Kelvin Smith, invented "Instant Ocean," an artifcial form of salt water used by aquariums around the world, including Mystic.

Ages 14-17

Advance registration is required for all programs. Contact 860.572.5955 ext.520 or email reservations@mysticaquarium.org for additional information or to make a reservation.

Summer Camps

Aqua Camp

Ages 13 to 16

Are you interested in working at an aquarium, with animals or for ocean conservation?

This camp will provide hands on experiences with activities that many people in the field of marine biology do everyday. Participants will take tours of the Aquarium’s behind the scenes areas, interact with Aquarium staff, perform hands on experiments, take fun field trips and much more. As an added bonus campers will have the opportunity to spend the night at the Aquarium sleeping amongst the exhibits.

Monday & Tuesday 8:30am - 4:00pm, Thursday 8:30am - Friday 12:00pm (overnight)

July 14 - 18 or August 4 - 8

Members: $310 / Non-members: $355

Paddlin’ To The Sea

Ages 13 to16

Follow the Pawcatuck River downstream more than 35 miles by canoe! See the river gradually increase in size and volume until it empties into the ocean. Along the way note changes in the environment, test water quality and watch aquatic wildlife. Campers will collect and observe fish, amphibians and other freshwater organisms. This camp is led by educators from Mystic Aquarium and the University of Rhode Island’s Environmental Education Center. Price includes all meals, accommodations, camping and canoeing equipment. Participants must be able to swim at an intermediate level or better.

Overnight, Sunday - Friday, July 13 - 18 or August 3 - 8

Members & Non-members: $665

Spring Programs

Amphibian Conservation Team (ACT)

Ages 13 to 17

Come and be a part of this new dynamic team of young leaders who are taking an active role to help with the conservation efforts of local frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts. With 2008 being named the “Year of the Frog”, it is the perfect time to join ACT and assist with field work in local areas as well as amphibian monitor trainings. This is a great spring and summer activity for students who are looking to make a direct impact on community conservation efforts.

Contact MaryEllen at mmateleska@mysticaquarium.org or 860.572.5955 ext.156 for details.

Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration Youth Leadership Council

Students Ages 14-17
Join this motivated group of youth leaders who are involved in exciting projects and programs throughout the Aquarium. From artistic mural work, to class development and teaching, to conservation-based action programs, YLC students are taking an active role by serving as Aquarium ambassadors to their peers and the community. To find out more about this ongoing commitment, contact Reservations at 860.572.5955 x 520.  Meetings are held on a biweekly basis beginning in September of 2005.

Become a Volunteer Docent at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration!

Students aged 15 - 17
This program is the backbone of our public teaching, allowing us to share the unique stories associated with the marine animals and deep-sea explorations that are so much a part of our public exhibits and research. Docents need to be willing to learn current information and then share, answering questions and interacting with our many curious visitors, both children and adults. We look forward to teaching docents so that they become experts in our world.

Student docents : Students age 15-17 help us in our busy summer months as exhibit guides throughout our facility. After taking a training class in the spring, they must be willing to work at least two half-days a week during the summer. This is a fantastic resume builder!