We are honored to announce that the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) has been named “Best Place for Kids” in the 2025 Indian River Magazine Best of the Treasure Coast awards! This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes directly from our community—thank you for your support!
Why Families Love ELC
The ELC is dedicated to creating hands-on, engaging, and educational experiences that connect children with nature. Here’s what makes us a special place for kids:
Hands-On Learning – Interactive programs that inspire curiosity and environmental stewardship.
Eco-Adventures – Kayaking, pontoon boat tours, and immersive outdoor experiences.
Nature Play – Dedicated spaces like our nature playscape and imagination station, where kids can climb, dig, and explore.
Living Lagoon – Aquariums, a large touch tank, an indoor active beehive, and a full-size manatee skeleton.
School Programs & Camps – Exciting educational programs that make learning fun and impactful.
Explore some of our most popular youth-focused programs and experiences:
Little Wonders – for Toddlers
Y-ELC – for Teens
Plan a Field Trip – for Groups
Celebrate a Birthday at ELC – for Everyone
A Recognition We Share with Our Community
The ELC has been fortunate to receive several community awards over the years, including Best Eco-Adventure (2023) and Best Tourist Attraction (2024). With so many incredible places on the Treasure Coast, we are humbled to receive this year’s recognition and grateful to be part of a community that values nature, education, and exploration.
“Being voted the ‘Best Place for Kids’ is a reflection of our mission,” says Barbara Schlitt Ford, Executive Director of ELC. “We strive to create a place where children can learn, grow, and develop a lifelong connection with the natural world. Knowing that the community sees and supports this effort means everything to us.”
Come Experience The ELC!
If you haven’t visited yet, we invite you to explore our 64-acre lagoon island campus, packed with opportunities for learning and adventure. Whether it’s a family outing, school trip, or camp experience, we’re here to make every visit unique and memorable.
???? Visit us at: 255 Live Oak Drive, Vero Beach, FL
???? Call us at: 772-589-5050
Learn more about membership and the reciprocal program we have with other nature centers!
Thank you to everyone who voted for us, visited, and supported our mission. We can’t wait to welcome even more families to the ELC in 2025 and beyond!
