Echo, Science and Nature Museum

Nestled in the heart of the bustling Waterfront neighborhood, ECHO – a science and nature museum – makes an attractive pit stop for young families. The museum is full of 100 hands-on exhibits, and shelters 70 live species, a live butterfly exhibit (available through September 2020), as well as seasonal exhibits, and a 3D theater that screens science and nature films daily. Among the animals housed here are bullfrogs, sturgeons, trout, turtles and snakes.

Reviewers noted that ECHO was much smaller than expected, but still worth visiting if you have kids and want to learn more about the area's ecology.

ECHO is part of the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, which is dedicated to educating visitors on the fragile Lake Champlain ecosystem. ECHO is open year-round from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On-site facilities include restrooms, a cafe and a gift shop. Admission costs $17 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, and $14 for children. Tickets can also be purchased online ahead of time. For more information about ECHO, check out the center's website.

ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a 501(c) non-profit organization. ECHO’s mission is to inspire and engage families in the joy of scientific discovery, wonder of nature, and care of Lake Champlain.