Just off I-95, you’ll find the newly opened Anastasia Mosquito Education Center, a hidden gem that’s now welcoming visitors. My daughter and I recently had the pleasure of exploring this fascinating spot, and we were both truly impressed by our experience. If you’re looking for an engaging and educational outing, this center is definitely worth a visit.
Why Mosquitos?
Before our visit, I’ll confess that my knowledge of mosquitoes was limited to their role as persistent nuisances in Florida, ruining countless outdoor moments. However, the Anastasia Mosquito Education Center opened my eyes to why understanding these insects is crucial. The center provided a comprehensive look at not just the biology and behavior of mosquitoes, but also the significant impact they have on public health and the environment. A visit to the Education Center is absolutely a wonderful way for the entire family to learn about mosquitos, from life cycles, habitats and diseases to pest prevention.
Mosquito Education & Entomology Too
The Anastasia Mosquito Education Center goes beyond its primary focus on mosquitoes to offer a truly remarkable experience for insect enthusiasts of all ages. In addition to its extensive mosquito-related exhibits, the center boasts an impressive Entomology exhibit that is a must-see. For families with children who have a passion for insects, this is a fantastic opportunity to explore a variety of fascinating displays. The exhibit features meticulously curated pinned specimens, showcases live bees in action, and provides an array of microscope stations where visitors can get up close and personal with a diverse range of insects. This combination of educational and interactive elements makes the center a standout destination for anyone curious about the insect world.
Bug Themed Playground & More
While the interior of the Anastasia Mosquito Education Center was certainly the highlight of our visit, don’t miss out on exploring the outdoor area as well. The grounds feature an insect-themed playground, picnic tables, a charming garden, and a bat house, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. There’s also a small gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs to remember your visit. My daughter particularly enjoyed the scavenger hunt, which was a fantastic way to ensure we didn’t miss any of the facility’s highlights. She even had the chance to interact with a Madagascar cockroach, feed mosquito larvae to fish, and take some memorable photos by the helicopter on display.
The Anastasia Mosquito Education Center is open to the public from Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. This museum and education center is a wonderful addition to the area, and is the perfect thing to do if you’re in the St. Augustine area for a day trip.
Jillian is a New Englander at heart. Born in Jacksonville Beach, she grew up in Massachusetts but was beckoned back to Florida for a Disney World Internship. She returned to the beach in 2005 after graduating from Florida State. Ten years ago she opened her handmade & vintage collective shop, Sew Vicious, in Neptune Beach. Jillian raises chickens, is a passionate gardener, a DIYer, a thrift store junkie, a deal loving mama, and has several inspirational travel journals available on Amazon. She leads her daughters’ Girl Scout Troop, teaches sewing at a local Montessori School, and is a Parents Who Lead Alumni. She loves surprising her husband and daughters with mini-vacations around the Sunshine State.
