Get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the cutting-edge research and facilities on the Narragansett Bay Campus. Please note that some of these tours and experiences require advanced registration.
Marine Science Research Facility
Visit the Marine Science Research Facility (aka the aquarium) and learn about the marine life of Narragansett Bay, featuring fish, a lobster display, and a shellfish and starfish touch tank. No registration required.
Volcanic Eruptions
An hourly spectacular on the quad starting at 11 a.m.! No registration required.
Inner Space Center
The Inner Space Center (ISC) is a one-of-a-kind national facility that supports live ocean exploration via telepresence technology. Home to a diverse team of ocean scientists, engineers, education professionals, and video producers, the team works with cutting-edge technology to facilitate, capture, produce, and promote underwater exploration in real time. Take a deep dive into ocean exploration! This 30-minute experience will take you to ISC’s Mission Control facility to learn more about ocean exploration technologies and experience the excitement of deep sea discovery in person! Preregistration required.
Rhode Island Nuclear Science Center
Take a tour of Rhode Island’s sole nuclear reactor, located here on the URI Narragansett Bay Campus. Guests will get a brief presentation on how a nuclear reactor works, how the safety system works, and how it can be used, followed by a tour of the operating reactor and control room. Preregistration required.
Please note: All visitors over the age of 18 must present a current government photo ID for inspection and photocopy prior to entering the facility. To ensure a safe and secure tour, long pants and closed toe shoes are required.
Marine Geological Samples Lab
Visit the Marine Geological Sample Lab to see its library of the ocean floor, including rock samples of lava from underwater volcanoes and the giant refrigerator where we keep sediment cores. There will be hands-on exploration of rock samples, a split core on display, and a demonstration of how lava flows work underwater. Preregistration required.
Research Vessel Endeavor
Based out of Narragansett, Rhode Island and owned by the National Science Foundation, the R/V Endeavor spends approximately 200 days a year at sea. Scientists from RI and around the globe conduct research and training programs aboard this multi-disciplinary oceanographic research vessel. This 40-minute tour of the RV Endeavor provides an opportunity to board the ship, learn how ocean research is conducted at sea and ask questions of those who operate the ship. Preregistration required.