Schramm Education Center
The Schramm Education Center is a state-of-the-art educational center that allows visitors to learn about Nebraska’s ecosystems through unique, interactive exhibits. The aquariums and exhibits feature over 60 species of freshwater fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates found in Nebraska. Visitors of all ages can explore nature through exhibits, which include freshwater aquariums, a sturgeon touch tank, a bird-watching area, a reading nook and maker space, a play area, interactive touch screens, and more. Birders will enjoy viewing many species at the outdoor bird feeders. Surrounding the Education Center are several large demonstration pollinator gardens maintained by Nebraska Extension Master Gardeners. Free naturalist programs, monthly family programs, and special events take place year-round.
Schramm Education Center, formerly known as the Aksarben Aquarium, is located within Schramm Park State Recreation Area. The park includes ponds, nature trails, a historic fish hatchery and a geological outcrop.
Learning about Nebraska snakes at Schramm Education Center. Jeff Kurrus, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Schramm Education Center. Jenny Nguyen-Wheatley, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Schramm Education Center's aquariums feature Nebraska’s natural aquatic habitats – cool water streams, rivers, reservoirs and farm ponds. Jenny Nguyen-Wheatley, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
The maker's space includes activity tables and reading nook at Schramm Education Center. Amber Schiltz, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
The aquariums were renovated in 2019 at Schramm Education Center. Jenny Nguyen-Wheatley, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Visitors enjoy the virtual mountain biking experience. Jeff Kurrus, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Interactive learning opportunities. Jeff Kurrus, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Slide into nature at Schramm Education Center. Jeff Kurrus, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Plan your visit
Hours
- Schramm Education Center: open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily, year-round. May have modified hours on major holidays.
- Schramm Park State Recreation Area: Outdoor facilities are open dawn to dusk daily, year-round.
Education Center Admission
- Ages 13+: $10
- Ages 4-12: $7
- Ages 60+: $7
- Ages 3 and under: Free
- Annual Membership (Family Pass): $125
Family Pass details
- Valid for one year through the month of purchase.
- Pass must be purchased in person at Schramm Education Center.
- Covers unlimited entry for the two adults listed on the pass and any children living in the same household.
- At least one adult cardholder must be present and provide identification to use the pass.
- Additional family members/visitors exceeding the 2 adults and children in the same household will need to pay full admission.
- Family pass is nonrefundable and nontransferable. Misuse may result in forfeiture. Prices and benefits of family pass are subject to change.
Venture Parks programming
Nebraska’s Venture Parks, which includes Schramm Education Center, host free monthly programs and special events.
The Venture Park Naturalist Team is stationed throughout the four Venture Parks to provide learning opportunities for our guests. Naturalists are people who love the outdoors and are passionate about discovering, exploring and sharing the joys of nature with you. It is our goal to inspire appreciation and knowledge of natural and cultural resources while promoting greater understanding, support for and participation in conservation and outdoor recreation.
Little Saplings
This monthly program, designed for children ages 2 to 5 and their adult caregiver, will bring nature themes to life for your child through story time, sensory activities, crafts, and outdoor exploration! The program takes place on the first Wednesday of each month from 9 to 10 a.m. and 10 – 11 a.m.
Cost to participate: $5 per child; $5 per adult; family pass members participate free. No advance registration required. Cost includes admission to the Education Center after the program.
Homeschool Hikes
Join a naturalist for a guided hike with other homeschool families once a month. Each month we will focus on a different topic as we hike in the forest. We encourage families to RSVP in advance through our Google Form.
Cost to participate: $5 per child; $5 per adult; family pass members participate free. Cost includes admission to the Education Center after the program.
Schramm Education Center offers a full range of field trip programs for a variety of groups and audiences. From school field trips with curriculum aligned to state science standards to naturalist programs that allow you to explore nature and outdoor skills, our programming offers immersive experiences indoors and out.
Field trips are taught by dedicated education staff trained in science, environmental and outdoor education. You can also opt to schedule self-guided exploration time in the Schramm Education Center and Schramm Park State Recreation Area with your group.
How to reserve
To schedule a field trip or group visit, contact us in one of the following ways:
- Fill out our Field Trip Request Form.
- Email one of the Outdoor Education Specialists.
- For field trips (schools, homeschools, daycares, summer camps, daycares, senior centers, etc.) or classroom/facility rentals, contact Jen Ruyle at jennifer.ruyle@nebraska.gov.
- For community groups (scouts, 4-H, partner organizations) or Venture Park Region education, please contact Kelly Ekue at kelly.ekue@nebraska.gov.
- Call our education line: 402-332-5022.
Looking for a place to hold an event? Our classroom is also available for rental! From birthday parties to meetings, family reunions, and baby showers, your guests can enjoy your event while surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature at Schramm Park.
How to reserve
Please email Jen Ruyle at jennifer.ruyle@nebraska.gov or call 402-332-5022 to make a reservation.
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Park Pricing
A park entry permit is required to visit state parks and may be purchased at the park, statewide Game and Parks offices and permit vendors, or in advance of your arrival online. View those fees, as well as attraction and amenity pricing.