Sands Point Preserve
95 Middleneck Road
Port Washington, NY 11050
(516) 571-7900/7901
www.sandspointpreserve.org/

Formerly the estate of Harry Guggenheim, this 216-acre preserve features natural habitats of woodland, field, freshwater pond, and even a mile-long stretch of beach, providing homes to a wide variety of animals and birds.

With some five Nature Trails the Preserve offers many opportunities for visitors to explore and learn more about our natural world -- from a casual visit to a serious study of, say, marine biology.

Sands Point has become famous for providing Special Exhibitions that people of all ages can enjoy and learn from. The recent Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats, for example, was composed of modular sections which create environmentally lifelike, yet theatrical settings, integrating special effects. A few of the components included an 18th Century Neo-Gothic Portal: examples of bat art, folklore and myth; Upside-Down Myth Gallery: visitors view the world as a bat sees it; Portrait Hall: spectacular bat portrait photography. Many other exhibits, including hands-on, interactive displays add up to a comprehensive, enjoyable presentation that people of all ages will want to see again.

While exhibits change, the above is typical of the quality Sands Point produces every time.

Families can participate in a great number of educational programs, workshops, and special events throughout the year. Some are based on the current exhibition, while others are permanent, covering a variety of nature-related topics.

Two buildings on the property are also open for visitation during the spring and summer season. Falaise, the 1923 summer residence of Captain Harry F. Guggenheim, is a beautifully furnished Normandy-style Gold Coast mansion. The Hempstead House, formerly occupied by Daniel Guggenheim currently features an impressive display of Wedgewood Ceramics from the 18th and 19th centuries.

School Programs are available for students in grades pre-K through 12. Again, some are based on current exhibitions, while others are available year-round (some seasonal). Just a few examples follow. What's Out There? (grades K - 3): students explore the natural world of the Preserve. Animal Architects (4 - 9): students examine the roll of shelters, nests and other structures in the animal kingdom. SFeathered Friends (1 - 6): an exploration of the fascinating world of the local birds.

Some programs are seasonal. Staff will also work with interested teachers to help plan a program customized to the needs of the students. Maximum class size is 30.