South Shore Natural Science Center Norwell MA 2025
Located on 30 acres with a pond, meadows, woodlands and trails, the South Shore Natural Science Center in Norwell is home to the EcoZone interactive museum, Children’s Garden, and Nature Center Preschool.
Come meet native animals, hike or snowshoe our trails, enjoy our exhibits and events today!
PLAN A WEEKEND VISIT TO OUR TRAILS
Nature Center located on 30 acres
Six interpretive nature trails
Access to 200 acres of conservation land
Outdoor amphitheater and picnic area
Children’s Garden
Rescued animal exhibits
NATURE CENTER PRESCHOOL
Nature Center Preschool at the South Shore YMCA Natural Science Center supports young children’s investigations and ignites their passion for learning. By highlighting the interconnectedness of humans with the natural world, we provide a foundation of stewardship, inquiry, and innovative thinking.
NATURE ADVENTURES SUMMER CAMP
Our Nature Adventures Camp is an outdoor recreational summer day camp that offers exciting opportunities for children to learn about the natural world while they explore our 30 acres of woodlands and fields, with rambling nature trails, numerous vernal pools and quick access to Jacobs Pond.
upcoming special events
Discover the Magic of Maple Sugaring!
Saturday, Mar 01 202510:00 am – 2:00 pm
Celebrate the New England maple sugaring season at South Shore YMCA Nature Center! This fun-filled community event offers a mix of education and entertainment, including a tree-tapping demonstration, sap boil, maple treats, kids’ crafts, live music, and much more.
Activities
- Tree Tapping & Sap Boil
- Arts & Crafts
- S’mores Roasting
- Guided Maple Sugaring Walks (10:30am, 11:00am, 11:30am: 12:00pm, 1:00 pm)
- Live Music
- Lawn Games
- Big Ryan’s Tall Tales (11:30 am and 12:00 pm)
- Touch a Truck with a Norwell Fire Department Forestry Truck
- EcoZone Exploration
- Professor Jim’s Maple Lab
- South Shore Woodturners
- Self-Guided StoryWalk Trail
- Nature Center Preschool Tours
- and more!
Food & Vendors
Free with admission (while supplies last):
- Pancakes with syrup
- Popcorn
- S’mores
Available for purchase:
- Shine Mobile Coffee – maple lattes
- Mom on the Go – maple bacon grilled cheese
- Pepin Sugarhouse – pure VT maple syrup
Admission:
- South Shore YMCA Member – Family Entry: $15
- Nonmember – Family Entry: $20
- Individual Ticket: $12
South Shore Natural Science Center
48 Jacobs Ln, Norwell, MA 02061-1149,