Informal learning refers to "science learning that occurs outside the traditional, formal schooling realm." Sites such as museums, zoos, aquariums, parks, science centers, planetariums, the school yard, and others all have the potential to shape young people's minds. Parents might see a day at the beach as a recreational opportunity while biology teachers could use the same site to illustrate topics ranging from taxonomy to evolution. In this article, the author discusses the role of informal environments in the design of high-quality science learning experiences. The author also provides ideas on how teachers may get the most out of informal environments for science teaching.