Discovery Center at Lovers Key State Park

The Discovery Center at Lovers Key State Park

Nestled in the mangroves is where you’ll find the new Discovery Center at Lovers Key State Park. 

The Discovery Center is open Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Designed by Sweet Sparkman Architects, the building is an architectural marvel. 

The Discovery Center serves as the gateway to Lovers Key State Park.

The 2,100-square-foot Discovery Center features an accessible, 18-inch-thick, elevated, poured-in-place, concrete slab perched on 49 tapered columns that visually represent the surrounding mangrove roots. It also features a large exhibit hall designed to bring the entire park and its treasures to life.

Inside, you'll find:

  • Exhibits about the dynamic barrier islands, habitats, wildlife and plants.
  • A large interactive map of the park.
  • timeline highlighting the inhabitants, activities and key moments in the history of the area, culminating in the establishment of the park.

The Welcome and Discovery Center also features a state-of-the-art multipurpose room where interpretive programs, workshops and special events are held throughout the year.

Tables and chairs set up in the multipurpose room.

Tables and chairs set up in the multi-purpose room.

Visitors are invited to enjoy the park’s sights and sounds from a rocking chair on the observation deck.

A row of rocking chairs on the observation deck.

A row of rocking chairs on the observation deck.

The Welcome and Discovery Center is open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.