February Vacation on the Cheap: Massachusetts DCR Events

Mass DCR has a bunch of free or cheap (well the Boston Harbor Islands event is a little pricey...) events coming up for February vacation.  So get those kids off the computers and TV and head out for real fun:  NATURE!

Here's all the South Region events:

South

Boston Harbor Islands

30 Shipyard Drive, Hingham

February 16th, 10:00am-2:30pm

Winter Cruise: An Island Fortress at Georges Island

Looking for an outdoor adventure for the whole family?  Look no further!  Come check out Georges Island in the winter.  If it gets too cold outdoors, warm up in the new Visitor Center and enjoy our short film as well as exhibits about the history of the island.  Reservations are strongly recommended, as space is limited.  Visit www.bostonharborislands.org for information and to make reservations.  Groups 10+, call 617-770-0040 x102 for special rates.  Cruise leaves from Quincy Shipyard at 10am, returning at 2:30pm.  Cruise leaves from Long Wharf in Boston at 11:00am, returning at 2:00pm.  All ages welcome.  Tickets cost $20/adult and $15/child.  For accessibility and information, call 781-740-1605 x202.

Waquoit Bay Reserve

149 Waquoit Highway, Waquoit

February 19th, 10:00am-11:30am

Skeletons Inside and Out

Learn all about exoskeletons and skeletons by examining, skulls, bones, X-rays and molts and discover fun facts about arthropods, crustaceans, birds, mammals and more. Together we will explore the beach and woods in search of animal artifacts then create a skeleton craft to take home and share.  Dress for indoor/outdoor exploration.  Program suitable for most ages.  Please meet at Reserve visitor center.  Reasonable accommodations upon request.    For more information or directions, please call 508-457-0495.

February 21st, 10:00am-11:30am

Bunny Trails and Cotton Tails

Meet a live bunny and enjoy stories, crafts and hands-on activities to discover the secret lives of local rabbits. Discover the rare New England Cottontail that researchers are studying within the Reserve and learn how you can help.  Dress for indoor/outdoor exploration.  Program suitable for most ages.  Please meet at Reserve visitor center.  Reasonable accommodations upon request. For more information or directions, please call  508-457-0495.

Borderland State Park

259 Massapoag Ave, North Easton

February 21st, 1:00pm-2:30pm

Animal Tracks, Scat, and Nests

Animal signs tell stories if we know how to read them.  Watch an interactive slide show in the Visitor Center and guess who made the signs.  Afterwards, we will enjoy a hike outdoors searching for wildlife and the signs they left behind for us to discover.  Please dress in warm clothes and winter boots.  Rain, snow storm, or very icy conditions will cancel the outdoor portion of the program.  Please call (508) 866-2580 x 162 for more information.  All ages welcome.  Program meets at the Visitor Center at 259 Massapoag Street in N. Easton.  Program is free; there is a $2 per car parking fee.  For accessibility, program information and for weather cancellation, please call 508-866-2580 x162. 

Massasoit State Park

1361 Middleboro Ave, East Taunton

February 23rd, 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Winter Greens Walk

Join a DCR interpreter for a fun and frosty trek exploring our winter trees, shrubs, and groundcover (if they’re not covered by snow!). We’ll take a hike through the forest, along fields, and near wetlands to learn about Massasoit State Park’s winter greens.  Weather and ground conditions will determine route.  Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy winter footwear. Rain, snow, or icy trails will cancel. Call (508) 866-2580 x162 for more information and for weather cancellation.  All ages welcome.  No strollers, please.  Program meets at the main parking lot at 1361 Middleboro Ave in East Taunton.  For accessibility, program information and for weather cancellation, please call 508-866-2580 x162. 

Things to know before you go!

• All programs are free unless noted. 
• Please be aware parking fees may apply – visit www.mass.gov/dcr/parkspass for applicable parking fees or www.mass.gov/dcr/librarypass  to borrow a ParksPass from a community partner.
• Be season smart and safe.  Dress for the weather.  Bring water and snacks.  Have a map and cell phone.
• Seasonal weather and storms affect parks and trails.  All events, programs and activities are subject to change.  Please take a moment to call ahead to confirm.

Check them all out by CLICKING HERE.  Thanks Mass DCR for all the FREE FUN!