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AccessibilityUrban Park Rangers
Our Urban Park Rangers are full of knowledge about history, astronomy, animals, plants, and more. Attend a Ranger-led event with your family and see how much fun learning can be!
Urban Park Rangers Events
Wednesday, February 19, 2020
Kids Week: Gather Around the Campfire
at Alley Pond Park Adventure Center (in Alley Pond Park), Queens 
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Join us in Alley Pond Park for campfire activities! Learn about campfire safety, and sing along to some fun campfire songs with the Urban Park Rangers.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Nature's Workshop: Create-a-Creature Crafts
at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers and create a cute creature craft by using materials provided by nature.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Ranger Games
at Metcalf Avenue and Seward Avenue (in Soundview Park), Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Spend an afternoon of fun with the Urban Park Rangers playing and learning new and exciting nature games.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Animal Tracks
at Prospect Avenue and Brentwood Avenue (in Allison Pond Park), Staten Island
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers will teach you the basics of wildlife tracking. By the end, you will be skilled in recognizing differences between raccoon and common house cat tracks.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Trees and Winter Wildlife
at Dana Discovery Center (in Central Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a winter walk as we look for wildlife clues while identifying winter trees.
Free!
Event
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Kids Week: Build a Bird Feeder
at Fort Greene Park Visitor Center (in Fort Greene Park), Brooklyn
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers and learn how to make your own bird feeder by using materials provided by nature.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Winter Wildlife Crafts
at Forest Park Visitor Center (in Forest Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Urban Park Rangers hope to inspire and lift your creativity to create works of art using natural materials.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Nature Sounds and Instruments
at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Sticks, stones, and reeds can make music. Why not combine an exploration of music and nature to see what kind of inventive creations you can discover.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Nature Exploration Hike for Kids
at Pelham Bay Park Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
The kids are out of school, now get them out of the house. Head to the park and join the Urban Park Ranger's for free kids's week programs.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Winter Crafts
at Blue Heron Nature Center (in Blue Heron Park), Staten Island
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Create crafts using natural materials found outdoors with the Urban Park Rangers.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Reptiles and Amphibians
at Payson Park House (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join our Urban Park Rangers to learn about the unique characteristics of reptiles and amphibians.
Free!
Event
Friday, February 21, 2020
Kids Week: Birding for Kids
at World's Fair Boathouse (in Flushing Meadows Corona Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
The kids are out of school, now get them out of the house. Head to the park and join the Urban Park Rangers' free Kids Week programs.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Birds of Prey
at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Spend the afternoon with the Rangers as they discuss the life cycles and habits of hawks, eagles, and owls.
Binoculars and field guides will be available.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Winter Scavenger Hunt
at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Winter season is unpredictable, but animals and plants adapt to the changes. Let's find some of these adaptations on a scavenger hunt through the trails in the park.
Free!
Kids
Kids Weeks Staten Island: Campfire Sing-Along
at Archery Field Parking Lot (in Willowbrook Park), Staten Island
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Carry a tune with the Urban Park Rangers and learn fire techniques, roast marshmallows, sing your favorite song and play instruments.
Free!
Kids
Kids Week: Owl Pellets
at Dana Discovery Center (in Central Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Whooo knows what we will find as we look through owl pellets and learn more about the adaptions of owls!
Free!
Kids
Saturday, February 22, 2020
Forest Park Super Hike
at Forest Park, Queens
10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers will introduce you to the hidden gems of New York City. Registration is required for this program.
Free!
Black History Month: Brooklyn and the Underground Railroad
at Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
The Underground Railroad was a network of sanctuaries for enslaved women and men escaping slavery. Join a walk through Brooklyn Bridge Park highlighting Brooklyn's link to freedom.
Free!
Birding: Eagle Watch
at Palisade Avenue and Spaulding Lane (in Riverdale Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
New York City is home to an amazing abundance of wildlife. Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban jungle.
Free!
Event
Black History Month: African-American History of Staten Island
at Bay Street and Canal Street (in Tappen Park), Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers will provide historical information on points of interest that are focal points of the African-American story on Staten Island.
Free!
Black History Month: Seneca Village
at 81st Street and Central Park West (in Central Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Learn about the lives of Seneca Village residents in the 1800's and the community's place in pre-Central Park.
Free!
Event
Sunday, February 23, 2020
Nature's Workshop: Linoleum Cut Fabric Printing
at Myrtle Avenue at Washington Park (in Fort Greene Park), Brooklyn
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Bring an old t-shirt and make it new with a nature design print! All art materials will be provided.
Free!
Kids
Black History Month: Poetry Hike
at Pelham Bay Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Attendees will be able to view the beautiful natural vistas of the Bronx while experiencing the nature poetry of some of the greatest African-American poets.
Free!
Outdoor Skills: Fire Making
at 218th Street and Indian Road (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Learn primitive and modern methods for making fire safely and responsibly while exploring the great outdoors.
Free!
Outdoor Skills: Animal Tracking
at Golden Pond (in Crocheron Park), Queens
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Learn how to identify animal tracks to understand animal behavior.
Free!
Astronomy: The Night Sky
at Lemon Creek Pier (in Lemon Creek Park), Staten Island
6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers will be your guides to the solar system, discussing the science, history and folklore of the universe.
Free!
Saturday, February 29, 2020
Birding: Winter Waterfowl
at 43rd Street and First Avenue, Brooklyn
10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban jungle. Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free!
The Pelham Bay Super Hike
at Pelham Bay Park, Bronx
10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
This challenging hike winds its way through the diverse forests and ecosystems in Pelham Bay Park.
Registration for this program is required.
Free!
Outdoor Skills: Fire Building
at Comfort station (in Willowbrook Park), Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Learn primitive and modern methods for making fire safely and responsibly while exploring the great outdoors.
Free!
Winter Wetlands Hike
at Union Turnpike Parking Lot (in Cunningham Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Urban wetlands provide a variety of benefits, including improved water quality and storm water retention. They also serve as critical habitat for native wildlife.
Free!
Historic New York: Washington Square
at Washington Square Arch (in Washington Square Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Washington Square Park has served various roles for its community throughout the years, adapting to meet its needs. Join the Rangers for a tour through the park and lean about its history.
Free!
Alley Pond Winter Activities and Games
at 76th Avenue and Springfield Boulevard (in Alley Pond Park), Queens
1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Join us live animal encounters, mini curling, hot cocoa and s'mores, wildlife walks, and more!
Free!
Kids
Sunday, March 1, 2020
Nature's Workshop: Drawing from Nature
at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers in making your own artistic field guides using our specimens and other natural inspirations.
Free!
Nature Art: Scenery Sketches
at 41st Avenue Entrance (in Queensbridge Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Urban Park Ranger art programs allow you to interpret the natural world through artistic expression, while learning about nature and the environment.
Free!
Growing a Green Garden
at Payson Park House (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Start shaking off the winter blues by getting a head start on your garden! We'll be starting seeds so that when spring really gets going you'll be ready to plant.
Free!
Nature's Workshop: Terrariums
at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Create your own beautiful living terrarium at the Salt Marsh Nature Center. All materials will be provided.
Free!
Birding: Owls
at Parking Lot (in High Rock Park), Staten Island
4:00 p.m.–5:30 p.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban jungle.
Free!
Hunter Island Night Hike
at Pelham Bay Park, Bronx
6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
Join our Urban Park Rangers for this rare winter night hike on an island where owls, deer, and coyotes live. Registration is required.
Free!
Event
Saturday, March 7, 2020
Women's History Month: Cass Gallagher
at Mosholu Avenue and Broadway (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Learn how to see through the eyes of a naturalist, as you walk with the Urban Park Rangers along the 1.4-mile nature trail named in honor of longtime Bronx resident and naturalist.
Free!
Event
Women's History Month: Historic Women in Queens
at Athena Statue (in Athens Square), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Celebrate Women's History Month with the Urban Park Rangers as we highlight Marie Curie, Gertrude Waldeyer, and other women significant to Queens.
Free!
Event
Winter Meditation Hike
at Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park), Brooklyn
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Hiking is the ultimate way to enjoy the outdoors and a fun way to reduce stress. Take a stroll through Prospect Park and immerse yourself in tranquility.
Free!
Nature Exploration Hike
at West 100 Street and Central Park West (in Central Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
On our nature hikes, you can take an hour to unplug from the world and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
Free!
Nocturnal Nature Exploration Hike
at Prospect Avenue and Brentwood Avenue (in Allison Pond Park), Staten Island
7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Find out as the Urban Park Rangers lead a hike through Allison Pond Park under the cover of darkness, and discover the many animals that call this park home.
Free!
Sunday, March 8, 2020
Historic New York: Fort Totten Tunnel Tour
at Fort Totten Visitor Center (in Fort Totten Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Tour the "hidden" areas of the Fort Totten battery with the Urban Park Rangers.
Free!
Event
Living with Deer
at Greenbelt Nature Center (in Blood Root Valley), Staten Island
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
We will find signs of deer in the park (buck rubs, deer scat, deer prints, chewed twigs) on a hike outdoors, and share five tips to follow to promote a healthy coexistence with these animals.
Free!
Bronx History: Williamsbridge Oval & Valentine Varian House
at Williamsbridge Oval, Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Urban Park Rangers specialize in the interpretation of historic turning points, both natural and man-made, in our city's long history. Registration required.
Free!
Science Discovery Workshop
at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for an afternoon filled with fun science experiments and games, while learning about the wonders of nature.
Free!
Kids
Living with White-Tailed Deer
at Greenbelt Nature Center (in Blood Root Valley), Staten Island
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Through an Urban Park Ranger-led hike, you will learn about the impacts and signs of deer on Staten Island, and maybe even see these majestic animals!
Free!
Astronomy: The Full Moon
at 218th Street and Indian Road (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Astronomy programs feature the use of telescopes and binoculars to observe specific astronomical events, all equipment is provided.
Free!
Event
Saturday, March 14, 2020
Seal Exploration
at Orchard Beach Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Our Exploration Series focuses on unique wildlife viewing opportunities during particular seasons. Winter is an amazing time of year to observe seals in the NY harbor estuary.
Free!
Women's History Month: Historic Women of Central Park
at Grand Army Plaza (in Central Park), Manhattan
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Some made music, some made noise, all made a difference. We celebrate women who broke records, broke ground, and blazed trails.
Free!
Event
Wildlife Viewing: All About Ducks
at Park Drive and Clove Road (in Clove Lakes Park), Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban jungle. Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free!
Nature Exploration: Snails, Trails, and Vernal Pools
at Alley Pond Park Adventure Center (in Alley Pond Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Our Nature Exploration Series focuses on unique wildlife viewing opportunities during particular seasons.
Free!
Climate Change: Adapting in New York City
at Prospect Park Picnic House (in Prospect Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Over the years, animals and plants have adapted to live in a city that's constantly changing. Join the Rangers for a hike through Prospect Park as we explore and learn more about its inhabitants.
Free!
Sunday, March 15, 2020
Women's History Month: Gravesend Cemetery Tour
at Gravesend Cemetery, Brooklyn
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers on this historic tour of Gravesend Cemetery and learn about Lady Deborah Moody and her connections to Gravesend.
Free!
Event
Nature's Workshop: Natural Basket Weaving
at Blue Heron Nature Center (in Blue Heron Park), Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Try your hand at tying and weaving techniques using natural materials. All supplies provided. Registration is required.
Free!
Rockaway Park Bike Tour
at Beach 94th Street Plaza (in Rockaway Beach), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Bike along the Boardwalk at Rockaway Beach while enjoying the sights and sounds of the ocean.
Free!
Event
Historic New York: Morningside Park
at Morningside Park, Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Discover the diverse history of Morningside Park. Learn about the fortifications that were built for the Battle of 1812 in the area of Morningside and Central Park North.
Free!
Women's History Month: Anne Hutchinson
at Pelham and Split Rock Golf Course, Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
The Urban Park Rangers will lead the way on this hike to Split Rock, highlighting the life and death of Anne Hutchinson, a key figure in the development of religious freedom in the English American colonies.
Free!
Event
Saturday, March 21, 2020
Central Park Bridle Path Walk
at Central Park, Manhattan
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
We will explore the design of the bridle path, the history of equestrians in the park, and the changing use of this recreational path in recent times. Registration required.
Free!
Scavengers of the Sky: Vultures
at Arthur Kill Road and Brookfield Avenue (in Brookfield Park), Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:30 a.m.
Often called ugly, disgusting, and unhygienic, vultures play a crucial role in the environment as nature’s best scavengers.
Free!
Early Spring Gardening
at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers as we explore vegetation in Van Cortlandt Park and prepare our garden for pollinators.
Free!
Natures Workshop: Creating Music from Nature
at Fort Greene Park Visitor Center (in Fort Greene Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for an afternoon of musical creativity and fun. Learn how to make musical instruments from natural materials.
Free!
Sunday, March 22, 2020
Birding: Spring Migrants
at Fountain Terrace (in Bryant Park), Manhattan
10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban jungle.
Free!
Nature's Workshop: Poetry in the Park
at Buddy Monument (in Forest Park), Queens
10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Develop a skill, participate in a hands-on project, and indulge your curiosity.
Free!
Eastchester Bay Beach Cleanup
at Pelham Bay Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
World Water Day is an annual observance day that highlights the importance of freshwater. Join the Rangers for a beach cleanup of Eastchester Bay.
Free!
Historic New York: Nature and Design of Prospect Park
at Arch at Grand Army Plaza (in Prospect Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a walking tour at Prospect Park.
Free!
Women's History Month: Women of the Lenape
at Conference House Park Visitor Center (in Conference House Park), Staten Island
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
The Lenape are a significant part of the formation of our city. Women played a very important role in the culture. Learn how native tribes used the local waterways, native plants, and wildlife in everyday life.
Free!
Event
Saturday, March 28, 2020
Composting 101
at Blue Heron Nature Center (in Blue Heron Park), Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Decomposition is a natural process that creates healthy new soil. Discover how to speed up this process and reduce your household waste through composting.
Free!
Coastal Wildlife Adventure
at Beach 59th Street Playground (in Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban jungle.
Free!
Northern Manhattan Parks Super Hike
at 218th Street and Indian Road (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers hiking guides will introduce you to the hidden gems of New York City and places often off-limits to the general public
Free!
Event
Nature Exploration: Seton Falls Park
at East 233 Street and Baychester Avenue (in Seton Falls Park), Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join our Urban Park Rangers on a hike through the Grand Canyon of the Bronx! Our Ranger hiking guides will introduce you to the hidden gems of New York City parks.
Free!
Event
Wildlife Viewing: City Squirrels
at Fort Greene Park Visitor Center (in Fort Greene Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Ever wonder how squirrels are able to thrive in an urban environment? Learn about the basic biology and habits of these abundant and curious mammals.
Free!
Sunday, March 29, 2020
Nature Photography Hike
at Conservatory Garden (in Central Park), Manhattan
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Bring your camera and join the Urban Park Rangers in Central Park, the perfect setting for outdoor photography.
Free!
Event
Outdoor Skills: Camp Cooking
at Van Cortlandt Park, Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Become a campfire foodie! Learn the basics of camp etiquette, how to set up a campfire, and how to make a meal with a Dutch Oven. Registration required.
Free!
Nature Exploration Hike
at Owl's Head Park House (in Owl's Head Park), Brooklyn
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
On this moderately-paced hike, discover the nature of Owl's Head Park. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes or boots and packing water and a light snack.
Free!
Nature Exploration Hike and Meditation
at 115th Street and Poppenhusen Avenue (in Hermon A. MacNeil Park), Queens
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
This hike will take you through some quiet areas inside the park and allow the participant to disconnect from stress and clear their mind.
Free!
Wildlife Viewing: Frog Watch
at Greenbelt Nature Center (in Blood Root Valley), Staten Island
7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Frog Watch invites individuals and families to learn about the wetlands in their communities and help conserve amphibians.
Free!
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