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  • (904) 257-9880
  • dvec@amcdfl.org
  • Open Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 10am - 5pm
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Free Admission

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Plan your Visit

Exhibits

Explore the fascinating world of mosquitoes and other disease vectors through interactive exhibits, pinned and live specimens, and hands-on activities. Learn about mosquito habitats, life cycles, disease history, and cutting-edge control technologies. See our world class entomology (bug) exhibits and have fun while discovering the role of public health in combating these disease vectors.

  • Mosquito Habitats & Food Sources
  • Mosquito Life Cycles & Specimens
  • Vector-Borne Disease History
  • Wigglers Play Lab
  • Welcome Students (Classroom)
  • Mosquito Control Technology & Tools
  • Arthropods of Public Health Importance
  • Entomology Is Fun
  • Mosquito Control History
  • Anastasia Mosquito Control District
Click Here for Virtual Tour

Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation, Days

The Disease Vector Education Center is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

We welcome groups of 10 or more individuals by booking.

Guidelines

Directions

Conveniently located just off of Interstate highway 95, click button for Map and Directions.

Directions

Schools and Large Groups

We welcome groups by booking events. Open to any group (civic, homeschoolers, students, etc…) with a minimum of 10 people. We ask for a one week notice before booking to help us prepare for your event.

See Form Below to Book Tour

Virtual Tour

Take a look at our virtual map to help guide you through each section! It’ll be your guide when you visit and provide information on each of our sections.

Virtual Tour

Booking Classroom

    Booking a Group Trip to the DVEC

    The DVEC booking is open for schools, homeschools, civic groups, and special events.

    To schedule a group event/field trip, please provide the following information:


    Note: We try to limit attendance to no more than 35 students or 40 people total per group.

    Classroom/Introductory Presentation:

    Do you have any guests with special accommodations?


    Note: We can provide interpreters for hearing impaired.

    Visiting Days & Times:



    Cancellation Policy

    Due to high demand, please notify us at thirokawa@amcdfl.org at least 48 hours in advance (excluding non-business days) if you need to cancel.

    If there are two no-shows without notice, your organization will be placed on a non-priority list, and future bookings may be less prioritized.

    The Disease Vector Education Center (DVEC) has worked with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to be designated as a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC). Our team has completed training and certification in best practices when assisting autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals. By undergoing additional autism-specific training, the goal is for our team to be better equipped to provide better service and experiences to all. Click to learn more about what it means to be a Certified Autism Center™

    Service Animals

    Service animals are welcome at the Disease Vector Education Center in accordance with ADA guidelines. To ensure the safety and comfort of all guests and our live animal exhibits, only trained service animals are permitted. Emotional support animals are not allowed.

    If you have specific accessibility needs or questions prior to your visit, please contact our team.

    We are happy to help you plan an experience that works best for you.

    Contact by e-mail dvec@amcdfl.org or call (904) 257-9880.

    Accessibility Amenities

    At the Disease Vector Education Center, we are committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for all visitors. We strive to support a wide range of sensory, physical, and learning needs so every guest can explore, learn, and feel comfortable during their visit. The following amenities are available to help you plan a successful and enjoyable experience.

    Sensory Kits

    A limited number of sensory bags are available upon request and include items designed to support guests who may experience sensory sensitivities. Kits include noise-reducing headphones, two types of ear plugs, fidget toys, sensory fabric, and other calming supports to help visitors stay engaged and comfortable throughout the center.

    Lower Sensory Zone

    Our outdoor garden space includes a lower sensory area that offers a quieter, less stimulating environment. This space provides an opportunity for guests to take a break, regulate, and enjoy nature at their own pace.

    Visit Expectations

    We offer a video walkthrough of the facility to help guests prepare before arriving. This resource provides a preview of exhibits, sounds, lighting, and general flow of the center so visitors can set expectations and feel more confident during their visit.

    Click Here!

    Busiest Hours, Days, and Seasons

    Visitor traffic can vary throughout the day and year. Typically, from opening to early afternoons, weekends, school breaks, and special events are our busiest times.

    Guests seeking a quieter experience may prefer visiting during weekday mornings or later in the afternoon. We advise calling ahead, just in case we have a field trip scheduled. 

    ADA Accessible Facility

    The DVEC is fully ADA accessible, with accessible parking, pathways, entrances, and restrooms. Our facility is designed to support mobility needs and ensure all visitors can comfortably navigate exhibit spaces.

    Work in Progress: Accessibility Tools

    We are currently developing an accessibility-focused self-guided tour experience. This will include text-to-speech functionality, and simplified navigation. We also plan to create a communication board to support a variety of communication needs and learning styles. These features are part of our ongoing commitment to expanding accessibility for all guests.

    Visitor Conduct Guidelines

    ATTENTION VISITORS

    Please be advised that live insects, including mosquitoes and other arthropods, are housed within the facility as part of our educational exhibits.

    Additionally, active beehives are located on the property grounds.

    If you or a member of your group has a known allergy to insect stings or bites, we strongly recommend bringing and carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) or other appropriate medical precaution during your visit.

    Your safety is important to us. Please do not approach or disturb any hives or insect enclosures and notify staff immediately if you have any concerns.

    Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and engaging learning environment!

    This playground is designed to serve children between the ages of 5 – 12

    Play ground is closed from dusk to dawn

    Rules of the playground

    Follow the rules - Play carefully

    • 1. Do not use equipment without adult supervision
    • 2. Do not use equipment when wet
    • 3. Do not yell or scream
    • 4. Wear proper footwear
    • 5. No running, pushing or shoving
    • 6. Do not use play equipment improperly
    • 7. Do not bring any sharp objects such as glass, rocks, debris, etc.

    DVEC RULES

    To ensure a pleasant and respectful experience for everyone, it is important to adhere to rules and guidelines. Here are some rules that should be followed in the Disease Vector Education Center

    • RESPECT THE EXHIBITS. Treat the exhibits and displays with respect. Remember that these objects are often delicate. We ask that you interact with our displays gently.
    • NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY. Camera flash can cause damage to sensitive specimens and disturb other visitors. Photography is permitted, but make sure to turn off the flash. Be aware of any specific guidelines regarding photography in the DVEC.
    • NO RUNNING. To ensure the safety of our visitors and exhibits, we ask that you do not run in the center.
    • MAINTAIN A QUIET ENVIRONMENT. Education centers are places for reflection and contemplation. Keep your voice low and avoid making loud noises, as it can disrupt the experience of other visitors.
    • STAY ON DESIGNATED PATHS. Follow designated pathways and stay within designated areas. This helps protect the exhibits and ensures the safety of both visitors and exhibits. Do not lean on walls, display cases or touch the barriers.
    • NO FOOD OR DRINKS. Eating and drinking are generally not permitted inside. This rule exists to protect the exhibits from accidental spills and damage. Use the designated eating area outside if you must have a snack or drink.
    • CHILDREN MUST STAY WITH A PARENT/GUARDIAN. No child should roam the DVEC without adult supervision.
    • FOLLOW ALL DVEC RULES AND GUIDELINES. This may include temporary signs and posted rules restricting entrance to certain areas.
    • BE MINDFUL OF OTHERS. Remember that you are sharing the DVEC with others. Be courteous toward fellow visitors. Avoid blocking the view of exhibits, refrain from using your mobile phone for long conversations, and show consideration for someone’s personal space.
      By following these rules, you can help preserve the integrity of the DVEC and ensure a rewarding experience for all visitors. Enjoy your visit and take time to appreciate the wonders that DVEC has to offer!

    Store

    We do have a small gift shop with unique bug related items. We sell local honey, and have soft drinks if you are thirsty.

    Donations

    Admission is free but we accept donations! If you would like to be a sponsor please contact Genhsy Monzon dvec@amcdfl.org.