Tidal Discovery for Kids at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for young children with basic mobility over uneven ground
Overview
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s “Between the Tides” program offers young students a hands-on experience studying the East River’s intertidal zone. Using scientific tools, kids engage with the shoreline ecosystem in a vibrant urban setting.
Between the Tides (Gr. 1-4)
$150 | Up to 35 Students | Chaperones Required
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the wonders of the East River estuary with Brooklyn Bridge Park's "Between the Tides" program for grades 1-4. Students engage in hands-on exploration of the intertidal zone, using quadrats to observe and record their findings, all while meeting educational standards in a unique outdoor classroom setting.
Brooklyn Bridge Park's Education Program serves over 10,000 students a year. We use the Park as a living laboratory for hands-on investigation, incorporating inquiry-based learning into lessons that meet Common Core, NYC and NYS learning standards.
BETWEEN THE TIDES (GRADES 1-4)
Explore the intertidal zone habitat of the East River estuary and tidal strait. Students will learn how to use a quadrat to measure, make observations, and record data about the natural and non-natural materials that they find on the shore of the park.
Location: Pier 4 Beach. If class is outside, you should anticipate the potential for full sunlight. Class will be on uneven ground of rocks and beach as they explore.
Duration: 60 minutes
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy shoes
Expect uneven, rocky beach terrain—closed-toe shoes with grip are a must.
Bring sun protection
Pier 4 Beach is exposed with little shade; hats and sunscreen help prevent sunburn.
Prepare for tide changes
Tide schedules affect accessible areas; check tide charts in advance for best experience.
Pack water and snacks
While the session lasts about an hour, staying hydrated keeps kids engaged and comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green crabs
- Atlantic mud snails
History
Brooklyn Bridge Park repurposes former shipping piers, integrating New York City’s maritime history into its urban park design.
Conservation
The program emphasizes stewardship, teaching participants how urban waterways support diverse ecosystems and the importance of reducing pollution.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe, non-slip shoes
Protect little feet on wet rocks and uneven terrain.
Sun hat
Provides shade during exposed outdoor sessions.
spring|summer|fall specific
Sunscreen
Essential for skin protection during prolonged sun exposure.
spring|summer|fall specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps children hydrated throughout the program.