The NSTA Store has a corner where we can meet the authors of current and popular books. Steve Rich was here today to sign copies of his latest book Outdoor Science: A Practical Guide.

There are lots of opportunities to get outside in Philadelphia, including Fairmount Park (one of the largest urban parks in the US) and the Philadelphia Zoo (America’s first zoo). Although it is ironic that on the first day of spring, a beautiful sunny day, Steve is inside signing books and doing a session later this afternoon!

What’s a good Irish Science Teacher to do in Philly on St. Patrick’s Day? Judging by the amount of green I’m seeing around town today, there’s plenty! Start your day off with a smile by taking a virtual field trip to Dublin’s new National Leprechaun Museum. Or if you’re looking for a bit of Ireland right here in Philly, go to Fado’s Irish Pub across from City Hall for free pancakes before 11:00 a.m. You’ll need to walk them off of course, so try heading to the Morris Arboretum. Rumor has it there are shamrocks tucked in among its 92 acres, complete with babbling brooks. If you don’t find them, you can still have a green adventure—visit the wetlands, stroll through the meadow gardens, or “soar into the trees on a spectacular 40-foot high walkway on Out on a Limb—a Tree Adventure exhibit.”

If you prefer the fauna to the flora, go green at the Philadelphia Zoo. Today is “Walmart Wednesday,” and admission and parking are discounted by 60%. See the animals, learn about conservation, or take a ride on my personal favorite—the Amazon Rainforest Carousel.

If you’re stuck inside and love a parade, you can watch an encore of the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It will air on the local CBS3 station from 9:00 a.m. to noon and again on CW Philly 57, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This is the 240th year it’s been held!

And finally, if you’ve always heard that “Guinness is good for you,” you may want to find out for yourself. Apparently the Irish Times–Philadelphia, in the heart of Queen Village, was voted one of the Best Pints of Guinness in the city.