Patton Center

About the Patton Center

The Patton Center for Marine Science Education features eight large aquaria and engaging interactive displays that allow people of all ages to learn about the local marine life and the research conducted at the UT Marine Science Institute and its Mission-Aransas Reserve program. The Center also includes the Estuary Explorium with interactive exhibits for both young and young-at-heart. The facility offers a variety of self-guided and guided learning opportunities for families, adults, youth, and organized groups. The Center is also home to multiple walking trails, including the Wetlands Education Center and the Water Wise Wildlife Garden. These trails include a variety of native plants that attract local fauna by providing sources of food and shelter.

Get More Information

For more information or to book a group trip, email msi-edureserve@utlists.utexas.edu or call (361) 749-6711.

Boat Rides & Field Trips

take a boat ride on the R/V Katy

The R/V KATY is a 57-foot research vessel available to visiting groups for educational programs. The minimum grade for the R/VKaty is 5th grade. The capacity is 25 persons, not including crew, per trip.

REQUEST A Field Trip

The Patton Center serves as a learning resource for students of universities, colleges, secondary schools, and homeschool groups.

To request a field trip, please email msi-edureserve@utlists.utexas.edu and request a Visiting Group Request Form or fill out the form here. Once submitted, someone from the staff will contact you within two business days to begin the registration process.

• Half-day student reservations are $675 (5th grade and above)
• Half-day College/University reservations are $850