The Environmental Learning Center (ELC) is a 64-acre nonprofit nature center that offers a wide range of activities and programs for children and adults. Visitors can enjoy school excursions, camps, presentations, adult education, internships, family festivals, youth outreach, and partnerships that promote access to nature. The center features native plant gardens, an interactive museum with aquaria and a touch tank, and various outdoor activities like pontoon boat tours, canoe and kayak rentals, and hiking trails. Its campus is located around the Indian River Lagoon, providing a scenic and biodiverse environment. The pontoon boat rides are especially popular, offering intimate experiences with only 16 passengers, allowing everyone to have a good view and follow dolphins and wildlife along the lagoon. Knowledgeable captains and naturalists share insights about local birds, wildlife, and fauna, making the tours educational and engaging. Visitors praise the center’s amenities, wildlife sightings—including pelicans, storks, and spoonbills—and its activities for all ages. ELC also hosts family-friendly events like Little Wonders, where parents and children can enjoy outdoor play and wildlife encounters. Overall, ELC is a wonderful place to explore nature, learn, and connect with the environment.
What a wonderful time we had on the pontoon boat tour! Captain Corinne and the volunteer knew every inch of the waterway and helped us see nesting wood storks, ospreys (with babies!), and even roseate spoonbills, along with lots of other flora and fauna. I learned so much, especially about things I thought I knew. What... read full comment
April 2026
Captain Corine and the volunteer were knowledgeable and enthusiastic. We saw so many beautiful birds and dolphins! I would highly recommend this boat ride and Captain Corinne. It was a fantastic experience!
April 2026
ELC does it again! A great class. With a name like Maple, I was not surprised that chef Stacey Maple was fun, sweet, knowledgeable, interacted well with students and taught us all about risotto, rice, tricks, work arounds and much more. Looking forward to her Fish class.
