On March 31, 1982 Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery closed its doors after spending nearly a century as a New York State trout hatchery. The very next day those doors reopened as the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery and Aquarium, a non-profit educational center. On premises they have the largest living collection of New York State freshwater reptiles, fish, and amphibians.

The hatchery is a terrific place for friends, family, and school groups to spend a day touring two aquarium buildings and eight outdoor ponds, feeding hungry trout, or even trying their hands at "Catch & Keep" fishing. Every year visitors come to learn about the freshwater ecosystems of Long Island and New York State. Educational programs are available for elementary and secondary school levels, teaching kids about fish, their environment, and even centuries-old hatchery techniques.