The Rey Cultural Center
Margret and H.A. Rey - authors of the Curious George children’s book series and former summer residents of Waterville Valley - were artists, adventurers, historians, naturalists, gardeners and stewards. Today their pursuits live on in the Margret and H.A. Rey Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the Reys’ spirit of curiosity and discovery by increasing understanding and participation in art, science, and nature through programs for youth, adults and families.
The lives of Margret and H.A. Rey were filled with continued learning and community service. The Reys were active in writing and illustration; astronomy; natural history; photography; environmental action (including calls for renewable energy); concern for animals; the simple joys of gardening, walking and bicycle-riding; and, of course, children's experiential learning. These life pursuits of the Reys form the basis Rey Center programs. This mixture of art and science, the physical and intellectual, young and old, and ever-present curiosity, is the foundation for a multi-generational center for learning and exploration.
Curious Cottage Preschool
The Curious Cottage Preschool is an early education program dedicated to inspiring young people to pursue lives of curiosity and life-long learning while developing the skills, qualities, and processes needed to thrive both today and in the future.
dark sky stargazing
The Rey Center offers beginner-friendly monthly Stargazing events. After dark, locals, visitors, and a visiting NH Astronomical volunteer meet to explore a variety of astronomical topics and have a look at what’s viewable from Waterville Valley. Topics depend on the visiting NH Astronomical volunteer and current sky events and range from celestial targets, carbon stars, current NASA missions, Deep Sky Objects, observing techniques, observatory construction and use, Dark Matter, Historical Astronomy and much more! In addition to Monthly Dark Sky Stargazing, keep an eye out for special programs on current astronomical events!
COMMUNITY GARDENS & NATURE TRAIL
The Rey Center Community Gardens and Curious George Nature Trail are open to the public. They are located behind the Curious George Cottage. Walk the trail and see what's growing in the garden! Don't be surprised if you spot a few Fairy Houses along the way!
In the winter, come snowshoe or Nordic ski our story walk. Our trail meets up with Pond Loop Nordic Trail. Already have your Waterville Valley Nordic pass? Access 71+km of Nordic trails here!
LITERARY DISCUSSION GROUPS
Discuss short stories with fellow literature enthusiasts in a friendly, social setting! Join the Rey Center in Osceola Library (or zoom) on the first Saturday of every month for a literary discussion group.
Curious George STORYTIME
Join the Rey Cultural Center for Storytime, taking place at the Snowy Owl Inn every Saturday from 11am-11:30. Perfect for kids 2.5-10, with older kids reading to the younger tots! This event is free of charge!