228-06 Northern Boulevard
Douglaston, NY
11363
(718) 229-4000
http://www.alleypond.com/
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.
School Groups (grade school) have a special treat in store with a wide range of programs available to satisfy just about any nature-related educational need. Teachers should call for complete details, as well as for information on the Teacher Workshops available. Outreach Programs are also available -- bring Alley Pond to your school!
Hours: September thru June Monday thru Saturday 9am - 4:30pm; Sunday 9 - 3:30. Closed Sundays in July and August and some major holidays. Call before visiting. Grounds open daily from dawn to dusk.
Admission: FREE. Family Programs range from FREE to about $5.00. Fee charged for programs. Call for details.
Group Reservations: At least 6 weeks in advance. Families should also reserve programs, but as little as a week may suffice. The earlier the better, always and anywhere.
Lunch: Outdoor picnic tables available.
Handicapped: Building only.
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.
Time: 35 minutes from George Washington Bridge.
Nearby: New York Hall of Science , Green Meadows Farm , Queens County Farm Museum , Queens Botanical Garden , Queens Wildlife Conservation Center , Bowne House .