Reciprocity and Bonus Benefits

Members receive discounted admission at participating zoos, aquariums, and nature centers through the

Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Additionally Science Center members receive special benefits at various attractions throughout the season and change on an annual basis.

Become a Member

Reciprocal Admission

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums is dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. AZA represents more than 200 institutions which meet the highest standards in animal care, provide a fun and educational family experience, and dedicate millions of dollars to scientific research, conservation, and education programs. Squam Lakes Natural Science Center first received accreditation in 2006, and again in 2011, and 2016.

Becoming a member of the Science Center gives you discounted admission to AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums that participate in the AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program.

Visit another AZA Institution

The Association of Nature Center Administrators

Members of the Association of Nature Center Administrators embrace best practices for managing a nature center. They offer excellent services to their community in the form of environmental education, outreach and partnerships, stewardship, and sustainability.

Becoming a member of the Science Center gives you benefits from ANCA reciprocal members.

Visit another ANCA Center

Bonus Member Benefits (2019)

Be sure to bring your Science Center memberhsip card on your visits.

MAY Benefit

Science Center members may visit Canterbury Shaker Village at no charge.

JUNE Benefit

Science Center members may visit the two Mount Washington Observatory museums: Extreme Mount Washington atop Mount Washington and the Weather Discovery Center in North Conway, at no charge. Members may also schedule a free weather station tour (advance registration required and based on availability). Offer not valid on special event days.

JULY Benefit

Science Center members may visit The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens in Newbury at no charge.

AUGUST Benefit

Science Center members may visit The Currier Museum of Art in Manchester at no charge.

SEPTEMBER Benefit

Science Center members may visit the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center in Concord at no charge. Planetarium programs are priced separately.

OCTOBER Benefit

Science Center members may visit the Children's Museum of New Hampshire in Dover at no charge.

Become a Member

Eben Gannett, 03/26/19
This is by far one the best not so hidden gems of Central New Hampshire! While it functions similarly to a zoo the goal of the facility is to rehabilitate and care for local animals found in the white mountains fo NH. The animals who stay are there for medical or other legitimate reasons to keep them from living in the wild and are given wonderful care. The staff that works there is knowledgable and kind, eager to answer any questions about the animals you may have. The path to see all the animals is fun and equivalent to many easy day hikes with spots to picnic, and a wonderful play/learning area for the young and young at heart. It is a place my family loves to visit time and time again, never getting board of the wonderful animals, new things to learn, and great day that always ensues.
Jill Cokely, 09/27/18
My family and I had such a great day here. I loved the flower gardens. It's so beautiful and smells amazing! We all enjoyed the exhibits and will return again in the future.
Jenny Brooks, 02/08/19
Something to do in every season for everyone who has an interest in Wildlife and Nature. We've been to the Raptor Spectacular day in September and the Winter Walk in January. Both were excellent value for money.
Shaun Wyndman, 08/18/18
This is a very pricey cross between a zoo and a nature trail. The science center features several exhibits relating to the animals in the area. It also has exhibits relating to conservation etc. They offer animal shows, demonstrating live animals several times a day, and feedings three days a week, so check the schedule to see if your favorite is on display. In addition to the move animal exhibits the center features several walking trails offering an opportunity to see local wildlife and plant life. Most tree species are marked for easy identification of the local foliage. There is also a ninety minute boat tour of squam lake available for an additional fee.
Sandra Lungariello, 06/10/18
My Husband and I stopped here on the way home from visiting Mt. Washington, and we were pleasantly surprised! It was very clean and well maintained, and there were a lot of healthy active animals. We did the live animal exhibit trail...I’m pregnant and wanted something nice and easy. We took our time and it took about 2 hours (if you have kids, there’s so much to do with them, like a playground and picnic area). There were many benches, most of it was in the shade, no big hills, and it was very stroller friendly and handicap accessible. It was so educational, and lots of care and thought went into all of the exhibits, great for kids and adults! Can’t wait to take the baby back here in a few years!