Squam Lake Nature and Science Center

On day 2 of our 4th of July NH trip we weren't quite sure what we were going to do. There were a couple of options that we chose. One would be most enjoyable for my parents (always good to keep your guests entertained) and one was geared more for Dylan. It was forecast to be rainy and we thought either one would be good for that kind of weather. After a leisurely morning of breakfast and lounging at the condo, we headed to Walmart for some groceries and lunch then set out towards our destination...not knowing at that time which place we would end up.

Dylan fell asleep en route so we started heading for the further destination - Castle in the Clouds (an historic home with an amazing view). However, when we were less than half way there, he woke up. So, we decided to take a u-turn and head to the activity he would likely get more enjoyment out of it - The Squam Lakes Nature and Science Center.

Like I said, we thought we might get some rain that day. We didn't. It actually ended up being a clear sunny day, if a little hot. It's a good thing too because I had imagined the nature center to be mostly indoors. I was very wrong! True to it's name, it presented a lot of nature, mixed with some science learning. The center had many animals native to the area that you got to observe in person, then a little building with each animal (or group of them) that had activities for learning about each one. It was really cool! What was particularly awesome is that Dylan is getting to an age where he's better able to take part in these interactive kinds of exhibits.

Coyote Statues at the Entrance

Barred Owl

Making a Rubbing of a Fall Leaf

Mike and Dylan's Creation!

Opening Doors to Read Facts

The center also had several informational sessions throughout the day. We were lucky enough to be able to attend two of them. One was in a mini outdoor auditorium where we got to see and find out a little about the rare (in New England) Blanding's turtle.

Since toddlers have the attention spans of gnats, we didn't stay for the whole talk but I was impressed with the bit of presentation we did see. Then, it was on to see more animals, some of which I'd never seen up close and alive (not taxidermy).

Fisher Cat

Bobcat Jumping Up After a Chipmunk

Stretching Bobcat

Mountain Lion

There were lots of things to capture Dylan's attention. In addition to having fun with his grandparents, he had fun walking the trails, watching the water from bridges, seeing the animals and playing in the exhibits.

Looking for Fish with Mimaw

Turning the Wheel

Walking with Pipaw

Yay Grandparents!

Woohoo! Pregnant Ladies Get to Have Fun Too.

Dylan Took Many Turns on the Slide

The second presentation we saw that day was for the mountain lions. We saw them then went to some other exhibits and circled back for the talk. We got to see them up close and personal while the trainer gave them some practice with showing him their paws and bellies, through bars, which they need to be trained to  do for regular health check ups. They are stunning creatures!

After that talk, Dylan was nearing the end of his rope, so we picked up our pace just a bit so we got to see all the other exhibits before he really melted down.

Black Bear

Red Squirrels

Groundhog

I Spy a.......

Frog!

I was really happy we chose the nature center as our days destination because we all enjoyed it. It far exceeded any expectations I had of the place. To finish off the day, we made some pizza at the condo and watched the beautiful sunset from our deck.