Visit WHOI
A visit to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is your ticket to ocean science discovery!
Take a walking 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!
TOUR
Curious about ocean science? Take a tour of our seaside campus with expert guides.
WHOI welcomes individuals and small groups for a free guided tour of some facilities. Reservations are required.
Group Tours
WHOI offers guided tours for groups of six or more throughout the year.
School Field Trips
Visiting WHOI is a fun and engaging way to reinforce lessons learned in the classroom, promote exploration and discovery, and instill a sense of curiosity about ocean research.
summer events
Ask a Scientist/Engineer
Thursdays at noon • Redfield Patio, 45 Water Street
Got questions? WHOI experts are here to help!
Splash Lab
Tuesdays from 1:00-3:00 p.m. • Redfield Patio, 45 Water Street
This fun and interactive "wet lab" features hands-on science for kids of all ages.
Saturday, August 9, 2025 • Woods Hole
Join us for a celebration of world-class ocean science! This family-friendly annual event features hands-on activities and opportunities to learn from Woods Hole’s many science organizations.
2025 WHOI Ocean and Climate Outreach Series
PRESENTED BY THE YAWKEY FOUNDATION
All events are free and open to the public
Thursday, June 26, 2025 • 5:30pm
Redfield Auditorium
Experts from SCDNR and WHOI discuss how science shapes coastal management. Following the presentation, please join us for a cocktail reception on the Redfield lawn.
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 • 7:00pm
Redfield Lawn
Bring a blanket, picnic, and lawn chairs for this fun family-friendly event. Free popcorn, trivia and prizes! Co-hosted by WHOI, Yawkey Foundation, and the Woods Hole Film Festival.
Thursday, July 29, 2025 • 8:15pm
Redfield Auditorium
A tip leads to uncovering massive toxic waste dumping off California’s coast. Screening followed by a panel with filmmaker Rosanna Xia, and scientists Dr. Chris Reddy, and David Valentine. Part of the Woods Hole Film Festival.
Thursday, June 26, 2025 • 5:30pm
Redfield Auditorium
Join us for a book talk with ocean scientist Juli Berwald, author of Life on the Rocks, an exploration of coral reefs and conservation. A discussion with WHOI’s Dr. Amy Apprill will follow.
Friday, September 6, 2025 • 6:00pm
Redfield Lawn
Please join us with a blanket, picnic and lawn chairs for a screening of this Cape Cod summer classic film. Movie starts at dusk. Popcorn, trivia, and prizes! Co-hosted by WHOI, Yawkey Foundation, and the Woods Hole Film Festival.
EXPLORE
OCEAN SCIENCE DISCOVERY CENTER
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 • Open daily 11am-5pm
SHOP
Stop by WHOI Store or Ocean Science Discovery Center for a unique memento from Woods Hole! We offer exclusive WHOI shirts and hatsas well as sustainable ocean-themed clothing, educational toys, books,and souvenirs.
We’re open daily from 11am-5pm during the summer, and always open online!
WHOI Store
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 is located in the heart of Woods Hole. Learn more about Woods Hole and explore the shops and restaurants in the quaint seaside village.
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.