Museum of Coastal Carolina facts for kids
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| Established | May 25, 1991 |
|---|---|
| Location | 21 East Second Street, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina |
| Type | Natural History Museum |
The Museum of Coastal Carolina is a fantastic natural history museum located at Ocean Isle Beach in Brunswick County, North Carolina. It's a super interesting place where you can explore and learn all about the amazing plants, animals, and history of the North Carolina coast.
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Discover the Museum of Coastal Carolina
This museum is packed with exciting things to see and do. It first opened its doors on May 25, 1991. The museum helps visitors understand the unique environment of the North Carolina coast. It's a great spot for families and students to learn about nature.
Amazing Animal Exhibits
Get ready to meet some incredible creatures! The museum has many animal exhibits. You can see an aquarium filled with fish and other sea life. There's even a special touch tank where you can gently feel live sea animals.
You'll also find displays of beautiful shells and ancient fossils. Learn about different kinds of insects and discover the fascinating world of sharks. The museum even has live snakes to observe safely.
Don't miss the detailed bird dioramas, which show birds in their natural homes. There's also a huge ocean reef diorama. This display includes life-sized models of giant whales, powerful sharks, graceful sea turtles, and flat rays.
Learning About Our Coast
Beyond animals, the museum teaches you about the coastal environment. You can explore exhibits on river basins. Learn how things like storm water runoff (rainwater flowing over land) and beach litter can affect the water's ecology. Ecology is how living things interact with their environment.
Other exhibits explain barrier islands, which are long, narrow islands that protect the mainland from storms. You can also learn about tides, the regular rise and fall of ocean water.
Exploring Local History
The museum also shares stories about the area's past. You can discover local and maritime history. This includes how people built ships long ago. There are also displays about the Native Americans who lived in this area for centuries.
Fun Programs and Events
The Museum of Coastal Carolina offers many fun activities. They have afternoon and evening programs. You can also attend special lectures. These often include information about local efforts to protect amazing creatures like sea turtles.
More Than Just a Museum
The same group that runs the Museum of Coastal Carolina also manages another cool place. The Board of Trustees of the Ocean Isle Museum Foundation, Inc. also oversees the Ingram Planetarium. This planetarium is located about 4 miles away in Sunset Beach, North Carolina. This means you can explore both the wonders of the coast and the mysteries of space!
