Alley Pond Environmental Center
228-06 Northern Boulevard
Douglaston, NY 11363
(718) 229-4000
www.alleypond.com/

Places Nearby:
New York Hall of Science
Green Meadows Farm
Queens County Farm Museum
Queens Botanical Garden
Queens Wildlife Conservation Center
Bowne House
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With a mission to encourage environmental awareness, understanding, appreciation and responsibility in the urban person through education, this very popular and valuable resource conducts great nature programs for families, as well as more than 20,000 students each year. With more than 635 acres of woodlands, meadows, fresh and salt water, marshes, Alley Pond Park in Northeast Queens is an unusual and welcome find for city residents looking for respite from the hassles of the rat race.

Designated a National Environmental Study Area in 1979, Alley Pond was saved from the ravages of progress by concerned citizens, and today it is home to a diverse variety of wildlife and habitats.

Special Events and Programs for families run the gamut, from lectures and presentations by environmental officials to Nature Hikes and Birding, to Art Workshops and Astronomy, to Field Trips, Cross Country Skiing, to Tours of a City Water Tunnel. The possibilities are endless. Call for a calendar.

Just a few of the Children's Programs for kids up to 14 (and as young as 18 months) include Wee Sprouts (18 - 23 months): an introduction to nature through petting animals, environmental toys, and a mini-nature walk; Fledglings (ages 3 - 5): a winter exploration with walks, talks, crafts, and live animals; and For The Birds (7 - 10): Birds of Prey, with live demonstrations, including a kestrel, red tail hawk, and barn owl. Many other programs, some seasonal, some multi-session, are offered throughout the year. Parents, as well as children, will love them.


Hours: Open daily, 9am - 4:30pm. Closed on some holidays. Call or check the official website, linked above, before visiting. Grounds open daily from dawn to dusk.
Admission:
Suggested donation: $5.00 per person. Many Family Programs cost around $16.00 for Adults (non-members) and $7.00 for Children. Costs vary, however, and are subject to change. Visit the official website, linked above, for complete details.
Groups:
Fee charged for programs. Call for details.
Reservations: At least 6 weeks in advance for Groups. Families should also reserve programs, but as little as a week may suffice. The earlier the better.
Lunch: Outdoor picnic tables available.
Handicapped Access: Building only is accessible.
Directions: LIE (I-495) East to Springfield Blvd. North on Springfield to Northern Blvd. East on Northern Blvd. Park is just past Cross Island Pkwy. 35 minutes from George Washington Bridge.

Copyright © 1996-2014 by Patrick Tadeushuk. All Rights Reserved.