amoskeag fishways learning and visitors center

We were here in September, so not much was happening here. I'm sure its much more interesting when the fish ladder is operational for spawning fish (May/June.) It is a rather small place with minimal displays.

Admission is free but a donation is appreciated. No fish were running when we stopped by and the ladder was dry. We checked out the exhibits and my kids did what kids do. It was simple and interesting but not exceptional. We would love to come back and see the fish or participate in one of the programs they run if we are in the area again. Worth a look if you are interested in local history, ecology or biology.

The weekend we were there it open so we were able to view the fish going throught the ladder. Great for families with younger children.

Took my five-year old grandson there for one of their educational events, he totally loved it. Trained staff run programs geared to different ages to teach conservation and educate about wildlife. A tank of baby salmon greets visitors in the foyer and other wildlife reside there as well, even a Timber rattlesnake!

I had a little spare time after a meeting...what to do in Manchester? The reviews of the art museum said it was $10 to get in, and the Milyard Musuem closed at 4. So off to the fish. First of all, its confusing. You park, and see a little sign for portage on one side, and a uninviting building on the other side. I walked around and finally saw the little fishways sign, and the trail of blue fish to follow.Do not come here if you do not want a walk.You go by the dam, then down and around. Nice gardens. Inside were little educational displays and wildlife in aquariums. Downstairs you could watch the fishkadders but nothing was happening when I was there...just churning brown water. But the educational displays were interesting, as were the poor snakes and turtle and fish. I was alone. If children had been there, I would not have lingered after seeing that nothing was in the ladder. Not a bad visit.

The Amoskeag Fishway is an excellent thing to do in Manchester, NH. The fish ladder on the Merrimack River has viewing windows where you can watch fish work their way up the ladder. On our visit we saw a number of very large carp and some smaller fish. The learning center has some displays with turtles, toads, an eel, fish and even an Eastern Timber Rattler. There is an activity center with bins that offer fun events as well as a puppet theater and child's play fish ladder. Two Grammies spent 2 hours there with a 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 year old. We enjoyed our adventure and will go back. Visit is free, donation suggested. They also offer structured programs that have fees.

Went on a school field trip with my daughter. The instructor was knowledgeable, but the facilities were lacking. Set well back from the parking area, we finally located the museum. A very modest facility with not much to offer. Wouldn't recommend it.

amoskeag has great programs which can be found in hippo press or parenting magazines. we visited it when they taught about salmon and had presentation for children. they also have art and craft project and guide telling us about the fish first hand. the kids luv it and its a very minimal cost - normally a donation. they also have a little area exhibit which has some fun learning. If you go below deck you can actually see the fish swimming and its a very fun experience.

Family friendly environment, lots to look at and learn. They often have special events which are a must to attend.

The Fishways put on a Falcon Fest this year and it was so great! They had a rescued for us to see and a speaker to tell us all about the bird. We could also walk around the fishways and see the fish ladder. Down the road, there was a station set up to view the falcon that lives in Manchester. I learned a lot and the staff were very helpful.

Fascinating! A window under the river. Great for families and while you're here, visit the SEE Center just down the road.

Been here many times for field trips. They do a great job! The actually hands on stuff outside the presentation is limited.

We went in June when they said the fish were moving, but they were already through. Hard to find - GPS took us the wrong way. Interesting and interactive - not much to do in Manchester!

The displays are comprehensive and comprehensible. Possible changes could bring more depth and coherence. Patient, knowledgeable staff (Ask for Eric's help).

It's a nice, local thing to see. Very quiet, nice to stroll around outside as well. No, this isn't Disney World or Universal Studios; no electronic gadgetry or snazzy videos, or ways to waste your dollars. This is a local attempt at showing what's done, and what the wildlife are in the area, and they do a fine job at educating the public without frills or fanfare... so do take a half hour to stop by and have a look, and support their efforts.