Townsend Park: Build a boat, will it float?

Your child will get hands-on with science at this build-and-test activity. You and your child will construct a mini boat together, then put it to the test in the water to see whether it floats. Along the way, you'll explore what makes objects buoyant through direct experience and observation. After the building phase wraps up, there's a fun racing element where kids can see how their boats perform—testing speed and distance. This program works best for children ages 5–12, though younger and older kids are welcome with registration. An adult must stay with registered children throughout the entire program. Admission is $5 for adults and $8 for children 2 and up; children under 2 are free. Since space fills up, pre-registration is strongly encouraged through online registration (open until one hour before start time), though walk-ins are accepted if spots remain. Keep in mind this is an outdoor program that happens rain or shine, so dress for the weather with appropriate footwear for park paths. Plan to arrive a few minutes early, as programs begin promptly.