Environmental education centers in DeLand, Florida

The Rinker Environmental Learning Center, located in DeLand, Florida, is a unique institution affiliated with a university that offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. The campus provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where students can learn, grow, and find their place within the Hatter family. The center is home to the Volusia Sandhill Ecosystem Teaching Landscape, the Gillespie Museum Native Florida Plant Landscape, the Hatter Harvest Garden, Stetson Beekeeping, and the Stetson Seed Library. The center also serves as a high-tech meeting place for museum exhibitions, academic programs, and community events. With opportunities for hands-on learning and research, the Rinker Environmental Learning Center is a hub of innovation and sustainability. Contact them at 386-822-7330 or visit them at 421 N. Woodland Blvd. Unit 8403 in DeLand. Email: [email protected] Fax: 386-822-7328.

Located at 234 East Michigan Avenue in DeLand, Florida, the Gillespie Museum is a must-visit tourist attraction for those interested in earth science and natural history. The museum boasts one of the premier historic mineral collections in the southeast and features seasonally changing exhibits on various topics. Visitors can explore the Native Florida Landscape and the Volusia Sandhill Ecosystem on the museum grounds, as well as enjoy the new Nature Nook exhibit. The museum offers educational resources for engaging at home, on the museum grounds, and for outdoor learning. With a dedication to environmental programming, the Gillespie Museum serves as a center for science education on campus and in the local community. Visitors can also enjoy weekly social media posts, virtual galleries, and various events and programs throughout the year.