This ethnographic research examined two out-of-school science practica where preservice elementary teachers learned to teach science. We wondered what teachers learned about science and teaching science, how their sense of themselves as science teachers changed, and how such settings might contribute to reform in science education to promote greater scientific literacy. Preservice teachers had positive experiences; found the practica non-threatening; learned hands-on, inquiry-based teaching practices and some science; and developed confidence in their ability to teach. Practicing teachers from earlier practica carried what they learned into their classrooms. We explore implications for incorporating such sites in elementary teacher education programs and suggest further research. (Contains 1 table.)