Downtown Newport just got a little more exciting — especially for budding scientists and nature lovers!
The Memphremagog Science and Education Center (MemSEC) recently held its soft launch with a lively Earth Day Open House, officially opening its new year-round learning space on the upper level of the Gateway Center.
If you’re familiar with the Northern Star floating classroom docked at the Newport City Docks, MemSEC is its new land-based partner — giving students, families, and visitors a place to explore the wonders of Lake Memphremagog and the surrounding environment even when the weather turns chilly.
John Aldridge, Director of MemSEC, said the idea was to create a cozy, functional space for environmental education all year long. And they’ve certainly delivered! Visitors will find everything from hands-on explainer stations and a working stream model, to an impressive augmented reality sandbox that lets you sculpt and shape topographic landscapes in real time. It’s education and fun rolled into one.
The center also highlights the rich local history of the Abenaki people, offering exhibits that share stories about the original stewards of this beautiful landscape.
Funded through a partnership between the Vermont Community Foundation’s Better Places program and generous local donors, MemSEC is already a big win for the downtown waterfront. Plus, their programs are growing fast — with hundreds of students from across the region already participating in floating classroom trips and in-school lessons.
If you’re downtown, be sure to stop by and check out the new space. You’ll leave with a fresh appreciation for our local waters — and maybe even get your hands a little muddy in the name of science!
MemSEC is also looking for volunteers, especially those with science backgrounds or French language skills, to help grow this important program. It’s another great reason to get involved and support Newport’s vibrant downtown community.