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SSNSC Logo
.48 Jacobs Lane, Norwell, MA

Hours:  Monday - Saturday  9:30 - 4:30

(781) 659-2559.

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About the SSNSC

The South Shore Natural Science Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the public about the natural and cultural environments of the South Shore. Our mission is to provide natural science experiences that educate, excite, and commit every generation to preserve the environment and to encourage responsible use, stewardship and enjoyment of our natural resources.

The South Shore Natural Science Center is located on 30 acres surrounded by 200 acres of town conservation/recreation land consisting of meadows, woodland, and a pond. We welcome visitors year round.  Please no smoking or pets on the property.

Directions to the South Shore Natural Science Center:

Click Here for Map and Directions

From Boston, Route 128 and points North 
Follow Route 3 south to exit 13 (Hanover Mall/Norwell) 
At the end of the exit ramp, take a left onto Route 53 (North) 
At the first traffic light, turn right onto Route 123 (Main Street). 
Take the first left, onto Jacobs Lane (just past Jacobs Pond).  
We are about 1/4 mile down on your right.   

From Cape Cod, Plymouth and points South 
Follow Route 3 north to exit 13 (Hanover Mall/Norwell) 
At the end of the exit ramp, take a right onto Route 53 (North) 
At the first traffic light, turn right onto Route 123 (Main Street). 
Take the first left, onto Jacobs Lane (just past Jacobs Pond) 
We are about 1/4 mile down on your right.   

From Brockton 
Follow Route 123 East. 
Cross Route 53 at Assinippi Corner. 
Take the first left, onto Jacobs Lane (just past Jacobs Pond). 
We are about 1/4 mile down on your right.   

From Route 3A 
Follow Route 123 (West) approximately 5.5 miles.  
Take a right onto Jacobs Lane at the Jacobs Farmhouse historical site. (If you go past the pond, you've gone too far.) 
The Center is approximately 1/4 mile down on your right.

 

 

Programs: The South Shore Natural Science Center is renowned for its high quality programs. Although best known for its pond and woodland school programs, SSNSC offers a complement of subjects and formats for adults, families and organizations. Seasonal festivals attract visitors from the entire South Shore and beyond. Whether you choose a nature walk, prefer a lively lecture, or need a speaker, there is a program for you.

Exhibits: Our habitat exhibits allow you to explore and visit live inhabitants of a pond and woodland. Indoor exhibits and outdoor interpretive trails increase the knowledge and appreciation of our natural resources. Watch us feed our animals, join us for a hike, or enjoy our hands-on activities.

 

Please note:  In case of inclement weather, the SSNSC will be closed if Norwell Public Schools are closed.

 

Please click here for our Cancellation Policy.

Hours

Monday - Saturday, 9:30 am - 4:30pm

 

Admission Fees

$5.00/Adult non-member
$3.00/Children (2-15 years) & Senior Citizens

Under 2 years - Free

 

We are affiliated with Mass. Teachers Association and Federated Garden Clubs. MTA & AAA members show your card and save $1 off admission.


Admission to Vine Hall Art Gallery, the Nature Gift Store and Trails is always free.  Admission to the EcoZone museum is free for members.

 

The first Tuesday of each month is "Free Senior Day" at the Science Center. Admission is free for all seniors 60 years and older.


Birthday Parties, Scouts, Meetings/Functions:  If you're scouting around for an exciting nature experience or want to party with a real party animal, the Science Center offers more than exhibits, programs, and trails. Celebrate a kid's birthday party or bring your scouts to earn a badge or spend an overnight. Hold a business meeting or a private function; Vine Hall and our exhibit halls make ideal meeting areas.

Nature Store: Looking for a unique gift? Stop by our Nature Store - we have a great selection of toys, books, t-shirts, and other gifts, sure to please boys or girls, no matter the age!  If you haven’t been by in a while, come in and see what’s NEW in the Nature Store!  Remember: Members receive a 10% discount on Nature Store purchases and the proceeds support our educational programs.

Trails: We have several woodland trails for your pleasure. Most are easy hikes - perfect for families and outdoor strolls. Our woods also hold some surprises for those who know where to look. Stop by to get a map and enjoy the day!  Trails are open dawn to dusk everyday and are free to use!  Please, no pets or smoking. 

 

Administrative Staff
Martha Twigg, Executive Director

Tracey Cooke, Business Manager
Judy Azanow, Public Relations Director 
Krista Peters, Camp Director
Wendy Blomberg, Functions Coordinator & Nature Store Manager

Linda Newman, Membership Coordinator

Persis Sterling, Volunteer Coordinator

Susan Bailey, Financial Assistant

 

Education Staff
Mary Lou Hammond,
Education Director

Staff Naturalists

Louise Beaudry

Barbara Devine

Debbie Hill

Karen Kurkoski, Animal Curator
Melissa Kurkoski, Scout Coordinator
Dorothy MacFarlane, Greenhouse Curator

Krista Peters, Birthday Coordinator
 

Preschool Staff
Elsa Ryberg, Preschool Director

Teachers
Barb Johnson

Melissa Kurkoski

Gina Mazzulli
Sheila McCarthy

Diane Thureson

   

 

South Shore Natural Science Center

P.O. Box 429

48 Jacobs Lane

Norwell, MA 02061

phone: 781-659-2559; fax: 781-659-5924

ssnsc@comcast.net