EcoTarium has Reopened Outdoor Experiences!
Salton and Freyja, two of New England’s favorite mountain lions, are ready for guests. The EcoTarium, home to the big cats, is thrilled to announce the reopening of its outdoor animal exhibits, trails and Nature Explore playground. And the brother and sister mountain lions will once again treat visitors to a bit of mountain lion behavior from Wild Cat Station. At 18,500 square feet, it is one of the largest wildcat habitats in the country.
“We are very excited to be reopening,” says Lucy Hale, the EcoTarium’s CEO and president. “It’s wonderful to be together again, outside, where it’s safest to be at this time. We know that it has been a very tough year for everyone. Coming out of hibernation, as we are here at the EcoTarium, reminds us of the hope we all have for our future. We look forward to welcoming everyone back.”
The EcoTarium is one of New England’s oldest and most beloved science and nature centers. Much that people love about the center — the outdoor live animal exhibits and outdoor natural spaces — will be open. Nature, too, claims a key role in colorful reopening, with the blooming of the rhododendrons and azaleas throughout the 47-acre site in the heart of Worcester. “Spring is a beautiful time here,” says Hale. “So much is blooming. Everything is gorgeous.”
For the most up-to-date information check the website. According to Hale, the EcoTarium’s indoor exhibits and activities will reopen as soon as the state is further along in the vaccination process.
Additional information guests will need to know:
• Regular hours will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• All tickets are timed and must be purchased in advance with the exception of those using free or reciprocal passes. No tickets will be sold onsite.
• Variable pricing is in effect, allowing people to choose an admission price that is most comfortable for them.
• All visitors over the age of 2 must wear face masks.
• Visitors must keep 6 feet socially distanced onsite unless with family.
• Outdoor bathrooms are open.
• Surfaces are frequently disinfected.
Within the city of Worcester, the EcoTarium finds innovative ways to connect visitors with science and nature. “We have acres to explore and we have what we call our volunteer wildlife — what you can see on our trails and ponds,” says Hale. “And there are the animals that we manage — the lions, birds of prey, otters and so much more. Connect with the animals here and you will connect more deeply with nature.”
Among the most popular attractions is the Nature Explore playground. “It’s outdoors and offers lots of ways to play,” says Hale. “Play helps kids build their confidence in nature and in the world. It allows kids to take safe risks while parents can sit back and relax a bit. Kids here have a little freedom in nature at the same time that they learn new things. Often, kids learn best through play.”
EcoTarium
222 Harrington Way
Worcester MA 01604
Hours: Friday-Sunday – 10am-5pm
