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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
Sunday, November 22, 2026
Autumn Mushroom ID Hike
at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a hike on the Kieran Trail to explore seasonal mushrooms.
Free!
Magnetic Archery
at Lawn Area (in Owl's Head Park), Brooklyn 
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Learn the art of archery with free lessons taught by our expert Urban Park Rangers. This program uses safe equipment with magnetic arrows and targets. All equipment provided. Ages 8+
Free!
Nature Sketching
at Arthur Kill Road and Brookfield Avenue (in Brookfield Park), Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a scenic fall hike through Brookfield Park. Along the way, learn about the area’s seasonal foliage and the history of Staten Island’s lighthouses.
Free!
Outdoor Skills: Knot Tying
at Entrance - 34th Avenue between 77th and 78th Streets (in Travers Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
There’s a knot for every need! Learn methods to tie very useful knots.
Free!
Hibernation and Brumation Hike
at Union Turnpike and 196th Street (in Cunningham Park), Queens
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Learn how animals such as birds, squirrels, chipmunks, reptiles and others survive the cold and the snow in this educational wildlife viewing adventure.
Free!
Native American Heritage Month: Walking Lenapehoking
at Seaman Avenue and Isham Street (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
During Native American Heritage Month, explore the past and present experience of Native Americans.
Free!
Seal Exploration
at Orchard Beach Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers to witness the harbor seals in their natural habitat off the shore of Orchard Beach and learn about these incredible marine mammals and their fascinating be
Free!
Freedom Seekers: Stories by the Fire
at Parkside Avenue and South Lake Drive (in Prospect Park), Brooklyn
3:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for an outdoor storytelling program exploring the history of the Underground Railroad.
Free!
Wednesday, November 25, 2026
Ranger Tot Time
at West 218th Street and Indian Road (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for an afternoon of kid friendly activities and exploring the Inwood Hill Nature Center.
Free!
Kids
Friday, November 27, 2026
Post-Thanksgiving Day Hike
at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
On this Friday, work off your Thanksgiving feast while enjoying the great outdoors. Join the Urban Park Rangers for a hike!
Free!
Post-Thanksgiving Day Hike
at Nevada Avenue Parking Lot (in High Rock Park), Staten Island
10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
On this Friday, work off your Thanksgiving feast while enjoying the great outdoors. Join the Rangers on a lengthy hike in High Rock Park. Boots and/or sneakers required.
Free!
Post-Thanksgiving Day Hike: The Alley Giant
at Alley Pond Adventure Course (in Alley Pond Park), Queens
10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
On this Friday, work off your Thanksgiving feast while enjoying the great outdoors. Join the Urban Park Rangers for a hike!
Free!
Post-Thanksgiving Day Super Hike
at Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park), Brooklyn
12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
On this Friday, work off your Thanksgiving feast while enjoying the great outdoors. Join the Urban Park Rangers for a hike!
Free!
Post-Thanksgiving Day Hike: Northern Manhattan Parks Super Hike
at West 218th Street and Indian Road (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
On this Friday, work off your Thanksgiving feast while enjoying the great outdoors. This hike will take you through the hills of Inwood Hill and
Free!
Saturday, November 28, 2026
Hibernation Hike
at Pelham Bay Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Learn about the amazing adaptations and behaviors different species rely on to prepare for and survive the upcoming winter months.
Free!
Kids
Hidden Gems of Queens: Springfield Park
at Springfield Blvd and 146th Avenue Entrance (in Springfield Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Learn about the people, events, and ecological features that have made Springfield Pond an important part of the local landscape.
Free!
Nature Detective Trees Mystery Adventure
at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers and become a tree detective! Let’s learn together about the diseases and pests that impact our trees.
Free!
Outdoor Skills: Fire Building
at Blue Heron Nature Center (in Blue Heron Park), Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Our Urban Park Rangers are well-versed in outdoor lore. Learn tips and tricks that will enhance your knowledge of the natural world, and might just save your life.
Free!
Gather Around the Campfire
at Entrance - Center Boulevard and Borden Avenue (in Hunter's Point South Park), Queens
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join NYC’s Urban Park Ranger and hear tales of NYC’s urban wildlife while enjoying the warmth of a campfire.
Free!
Historic New York: Mount Morris Fire Watch Tower
at Mount Morris Fire Watchtower (in Marcus Garvey Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Urban Park Rangers discuss the significance and history of this recently restored structure. Open access from 1pm to 2:45pm. Registration is not required.
Free!
Nature's Workshop: Hand Weaving and Crocheting
at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Explore nature’s fiber arts and learn about the vast shapes and colors of the microbiome.
Free!
Sunday, November 29, 2026
Unplugged Nature Exploration Hike
at Union Turnpike and 196th Street (in Cunningham Park), Queens
9:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a peaceful morning hike that invites participants to slow down, observe their surroundings, and connect with nature through mindful listening.
Free!
Birding: Winter Birds
at Fort Greene Park Visitor Center (in Fort Greene Park), Brooklyn
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Join us on this Ranger led walk along the park identifying various birds that stick around for the winter and some that might fly through on their journey south
Free!
Exploring Nature Through Poetry
at Richmond Terrace Park, Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Explore the natural beauty of Richmond Terrace Wetland Park as we reflect on the landscapes of Staten Island Parks and create poems of our own.
Free!
Hiking Club Series: Split Rock
at Pelham and Split Rock Golf Course, Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
This hike will take you through the scenic landscapes of Pelham Bay Park as we search for wildlife, observe seasonal changes, and visit historic Split Rock.
Free!
Nature Puppet Show
at Crotona Nature Center (in Crotona Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Unleash your creativity and learn about the many animals who call our parks home while you write your very own puppet show about our furry and feathered friends!
Free!
Kids
Discovery Hike: Marine Mammals
at Entrance - Beach 44th Street and Boardwalk (in Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk), Queens
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Rockaway Beach has recently been a prominent site to view marine mammals such as whales and seals. Learn more about the different types of marine mammals that can be seen off the shores
Free!
Fantastic Fungi Mushroom ID Hike
at Entrance - Bartow Avenue and Eugene Street (in Long Pond Park), Staten Island
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
This Urban Park Ranger led hike will take you through the forest to learn how to identify fungi.
Free!
Historic New York: Gravesend
at Gravesend Cemetery, Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
The Urban Park Rangers will guide you through this landmarked cemetery that was established by Lady Deborah Moody in 1643 and is home to graves of early settlers and founding families.
Free!
Plastics and the Planet
at West 218th Street and Indian Road (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a discussion on how plastic production, use, and disposal affect ecosystems and human health.
Free!
Tuesday, December 1, 2026
CANCELED: Hart Island World AIDS Day (South Island)
at Hart Island, Bronx
10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers to explore Hart Island's unique past, present, and future. Participants are chosen by lottery. Lottery registration opens on Wednesday November 18, 2025.
Free!
Saturday, December 5, 2026
Birding: All About Crows
at Crotona Nature Center (in Crotona Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers to learn more about crows, a highly intelligent and sociable bird species.
Free!
Gather Around the Campfire
at Entrance - Beach 44th Street and Boardwalk (in Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Enjoy the morning gathered around a fire with the Urban Park Rangers. We will participate in activities such as stories, songs and more.
Free!
Nature Open Mic
at Greenbelt Nature Center (in Blood Root Valley), Staten Island
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Nature provides inspiration. Come show off your talents and how nature inspires you.
Free!
Kids
Birding: Beginner Birding
at Vermont Place Parking Lot (in Highland Park), Queens
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Rangers will introduce beginner friendly resources that can make birding fun for anyone! Binoculars will be provided.
Free!
Kids
Gather Around the Campfire
at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Enjoy the afternoon gathered around a fire with the Urban Park Rangers. We will participate in activities such as stories, songs and more.
Free!
Historic New York: Marcus Garvey Highlights
at West 122nd Street and Mt Morris Park West (in Marcus Garvey Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a guided walk as we highlight the life and legacy of Marcus Garvey and uncover the rich history of the park that bears his name
Free!
Nature's Workshop: Natural Dyes
at Suydam Street & Irving Avenue (in Maria Hernandez Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Learn about plants found in the park, your kitchen, and our community gardens that can create a rainbow of colors at this natural dyes workshop.
Free!
Winter Tree ID
at Driggs Avenue and Lorimer Street (in McCarren Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Join us for a walk of McCarren Park in search of different tree species and learn some ways to identify these trees during the changing season.
Free!
Metaverse Scavenger Hunt
at Old Mill Road and Richmond Hill Road (in LaTourette Park & Golf Course), Staten Island
2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a nature scavenger hunt inspired by the popular mobile game application "Pokemon Go". See how many of these can be found where the metaverse meets nature
Free!
Kids
Sunday, December 6, 2026
Doggie Day Hike
at Parkside Avenue and South Lake Drive (in Prospect Park), Brooklyn
10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Take a stroll through the forest with your four legged friend on this dog-friendly hike. Dogs are required to be on-leash.
Free!
Birding: Owls and Owl Pellet Discovery
at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Learn about all about owls and dissect their pellets to see what they eat. You will be surprised by your discovery.
Free!
Birding: Winter Waterfowl
at Entrance - Baisley Blvd. & 157th Street (in Baisley Pond Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Birding programs are an all-inclusive safe space and appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free!
Birding: Winter Waterfowl
at Entrance - 85th Street and Central Park West (in Central Park), Manhattan
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Birding programs are an all-inclusive safe space and appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free!
Discovery Hike: Winter Wildlife
at Playground (in Brower Park), Brooklyn
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers to discover the residents of NYC Parks and how they are toughing through the winter months.
Free!
Outdoor Skills: Maps and Compass Scavenger Hunt
at Crotona Nature Center (in Crotona Park), Bronx
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Participants will learn how to use a map to uncover hidden clues and discover the nature in the park along the way!
Free!
Winter Woods in Nature Exploration Hike
at Arden Woods Parking Lot, Staten Island
1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Learn how the natural world adapts to colder weather and enjoy a peaceful walk through the changing forest.
Free!
Kids
Saturday, December 12, 2026
Birding: Winter Waterfowl
at Entrance - East 88th Street and Seaview Avenue (in Canarsie Park), Brooklyn
10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Birding programs are an all-inclusive safe space and appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free!
Geology: Queens Rocks!
at Union Turnpike and 196th Street (in Cunningham Park), Queens
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a guided walk through Cunningham Park to explore the dramatic impact glaciers had on shaping the landscape of Queens.
Free!
Hiking Club Series: Cass Gallagher Trail
at Broadway and Mosholu Avenue (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
This hike will take you through the scenic landscapes of Van Cortlandt on the Cass Gallagher Trail as we search for wildlife and observe seasonal changes.
Free!
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