In the Dalton Discovery Center, you will imagine yourself as a drop of water, taking a journey through the ecosystems of Southwest Florida. Along the way, you will meet the animals and plants that call these places home. Our uplands Everglades, mangrove, beach and ocean ecosystems exhibits are interactive and are also home to several of our Animal Ambassadors.
Uplands: Discover a few of Florida’s sensational snake species!
Everglades: Gather around to catch a glimpse of our exciting Everglades ambassadors!
Mangroves: How many species can you spot in the estuary aquariums?
Beach: Interact with some of Florida’s magnificent marine invertebrates in our Touch Tank!
Ocean: Peer into our 5,000 gallon Patch Reef Aquarium!
Before you finish your spectacular tour of the Dalton Discovery Center, you'll be able to see Luna - our brand new juvenile loggerhead sea turtle - swimming around in her temporary tank, before she moves to the larger, 5,000-gallon patch reef tank.
Spanish for the word “moon,” the name Luna was suggested by two visitors at the Conservancy’s Nature Center in light of sea turtle hatchlings’ night time trek from land to sea. Luna can be seen in the Ocean’s Gallery where she serves as an ambassador for loggerheads, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about sea turtle conservation.
All aboard from the Allyn Family Dock! Take a leisurely, informative and fun 45-minute cruise along the beautiful Gordon River.
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Every day, Conservancy-trained naturalists or volunteers lead daily programs for Nature Center guests.
The trails may be short, but the bird viewing is terrific! Take a self-guided nature walk along the DeLong Mangrove Trail, the Lagoon Trail and the Hammock Trail.