Best Nature Centers for Kids Around NYC

Emily N:  This huge nature center is situated in the beautiful Blue Heron Park in Staten Island. Learn about the diverse area that encompasses Blue Heron Park including all of the birds who call the park home! The nature center offers programming for families including crafts and nature drawing and opportunities to search the pond for wildlife.

Emily N:  Interested in exploring New York City's most remote region? Visit the Staten Island Greenbelt where children can learn all about the local flora and fauna at the nature center and enjoy its beautiful views and frequent programs such as hiking, art workshops and performances. The Greenbelt Nature Center is the best starting point for families to get to know all about the surrounding area including trails, camping areas, history and tours.

Emily N:  Right in the middle of the city lies our famous Central Park with many opportunities for children to tap into nature. The Charles A. Dana Discovery Center is geared towards environmental education programming for children and even hosts free catch and release fishing for families to experience wildlife up close.

Emily N:  Situated in Prospect Park, the Audubon Center is dedicated to educating the public about all the nature in the park with exhibits and programming! Featuring hands-on displays and engaging events, families have the opportunity to better understand and appreciate Prospect Park's vast natural beauty.

Emily N:  The Salt Marsh Nature Center is an excellent resource in Brooklyn to connect with the local natural and cultural environment. Offering exhibits about the unique salt marsh and surrounding area, hikes and walks and special programming and events, the Salt Marsh Nature Center is the best starting point for an adventure!

Emily N:  Van Cortlandt park is a great place to explore with a wide variety of things to see and do! Stop inside the nature center to learn about the natural surroundings, meet some wildlife and get information such as maps and brochures. There are also many activities throughout the year hosted by Urban Park Rangers to check out.

Emily N:  Pelham Bay Park is home to two nature centers, one of which is situated on Orchard Beach, that offer activities throughout the year with Urban Park Rangers. With so many trails and wetlands, the park offers plenty of different opportunities to explore. The nature centers are open to the public from Memorial Day-Labor Day however the Urban Park Rangers frequently host events throughout the year.

Emily N:  Alley Pond is a wonderful oasis for families to learn about their natural surroundings. With over 600 acres of diverse landscape and many different ways to explore it, Alley Pond will transport you away from the bustling city for a few hours. The Environmental Center is dedicated to educating the public about the importance of the area and all the creatures who call it home. Visitors can stop in and learn more about the trails and programs for kids and families that Alley Pond frequently offers such as stargazing and a bird walk!