Inspiring Young Minds Through STEAM and Nature in the Red River Gorge
The Red River Gorge Discovery Zone is a community-based grassroots organization dedicated to sparking curiosity and creativity in children and youth through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities rooted in the natural wonders of Kentucky’s Red River Gorge.
Founded in the spirit of Father Al Fritsch, S.J.—Jesuit priest, environmental advocate, and prolific author—the Red River Gorge Discovery Zone continues his legacy by connecting young learners to science, sustainability, and the sacred beauty of the Earth. Father Fritsch believed in the power of education, nature, and imagination to shape a better world, and we carry that vision forward today.
What We Do
We offer fun, engaging, and educational programs designed to bring STEAM to life in ways that are accessible and exciting for kids and teens. Some of our most popular activities include:
- 🧪 The Science of Pizza – A deliciously hands-on way to explore chemistry, biology, and heat transfer through everyone’s favorite food.
- 🐝 Beehives and Bats – Discover the vital roles of pollinators and nocturnal animals through interactive learning, crafts, and exploration.
- 🎬 STEAM & Cinema – Family-friendly movie events paired with themed science demonstrations and activities that bring the science behind the story to life, like Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.
Whether it’s learning about satellites and orbit, building simple machines, or using art to understand ecosystems, our programs foster critical thinking, creativity, and a love of learning—all set in one of the most breathtaking natural environments in the country.
Our Vision
We believe that learning should be joyful, hands-on, and grounded in place. By focusing on local ecosystems, community engagement, and creative exploration, we empower the next generation to become thoughtful stewards of the Earth and enthusiastic explorers of science and the arts.