Visit WHOI
A visit to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is your ticket to ocean science discovery! Take a guided tour of our historic seaside campus, explore our Ocean Science Discovery Center, and pick up a salty souvenir at the WHOI Store. We also offer special events all summer long—don’t miss out!
Ocean Science Activities for School Vacation Week
Join us for educational fun in Woods Hole from April 20-24!
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ALL WEEK LONG
Woods Hole Village Scavenger Hunt
Visit the local businesses on your scavenger hunt card and keep your eyes peeled for each location’s “secret special item.” Found it? Awesome! Ask a staff member to check off your card and move on to your next stop. Once you’ve completed the hunt, head back to the WHOI Visitor Center (93 Water St., Woods Hole, MA) to claim your prizes—kindly donated by Woods Hole businesses’. You’ll also be entered into a grand prize drawing for a chance to win even more fun surprises! Scavenger hunt cards are available at the WHOI Visitor Center and participating businesses. Please check each business’s website for hours of operation.
TUESDAY, APRIL 21, 10:00AM
“The Right Whale” film showing
Redfield Auditorium, 45 Water St., Woods Hole, MA
The Right Whale: Tales of Resilience and Hope is an intimate and visually stunning documentary that follows the dramatic lives of right whales across the globe—from the icy waters of New Zealand and Argentina to the busy coastlines of North America. There will be an introduction by filmmakers Nick and Cheryl Dean, as well as a Q&A after the film. Not appropriate for children under 8.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 11:30AM
Splash Lab
WHOI Ocean Science Discovery Center, 15 School St., Woods Hole, MA
Splash Lab features hands-on science activities for kids of all ages with WHOI Volunteer Cathy Francis.
THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 11:30AM - 12:30PM
Marine Mammals in our Backyard Activity
WHOI Ocean Science Discovery Center, 15 School St., Woods Hole, MA
“Marine Mammals in our Backyard” activity with WHOI Sea Grant’s Grace Simpkins. Come learn about our local marine mammal species, what they sound like, and how we study them. Hold a sperm whale tooth, dolphin bones, baleen, and more!
FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 11:30AM
"Story Time” with Author Michelle Cusolito
WHOI Ocean Science Discovery Center, 15 School St., Woods Hole, MA
Michelle will read her book “In the World of Whales”. Plunge deep into the awe-inspiring true story of a freediver’s encounter with a newborn sperm whale and its family.
GUIDED TOURS
Curious about ocean science? Take a tour of our seaside campus with a volunteer guide. Individuals and small groups could sign up below. Please note tours are recommended for ages 12 and older, and reservations are required. Questions, call (508) 289-2252.
Climb inside a replica model of the deep sea submersible, Alvin. Learn about WHOI’s discovery and exploration of the "unsinkable” HMS Titanic. Immerse yourself in the hidden wonders of the Ocean Twilight Zone and “tag” a metallic blue shark to learn how we study these awesome ocean predators. There’s something for everyone to discover!
15 School Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543
Climb inside a replica model of the deep sea submersible, Alvin. Learn about WHOI’s discovery and exploration of the "unsinkable” HMS Titanic. Immerse yourself in the hidden wonders of the Ocean Twilight Zone and “tag” a metallic blue shark to learn how we study these awesome ocean predators. There’s something for everyone to discover!
15 School Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543
SHOP
Stop by the WHOI Store for a unique memento from Woods Hole! We offer exclusive WHOI shirts and hats as well as ocean-themed clothing, educational toys, books, and souvenirs. We’re open daily from 11am-5pm during the summer, and always open online! View this page for current hours.
93 Water Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543
Support WHOI’s ocean research and education with your purchase, and get free maps and information about WHOI events.
WHOI's online store is always open. Shop for unique WHOI gear and ocean-related gifts including books, puzzles and jewelry. All proceeds support ocean science.
Get Involved
Visiting WHOI is free but our research is not. Join a community of donors and supporters passionate about oceanographic research, discovery, and education.
Join a community of supporters passionate about oceanographic research, discovery, and education. Membership benefits bring you closer to your impact!
Understanding the ocean is crucial to protect this invaluable resource for generations to come.
Our supporters help WHOI scientists and engineers advance the frontiers of scientific knowledge.