easy
2–3 hours
Good for children with average fitness comfortable walking on uneven, wet terrain
Discover Brooklyn Bridge Park’s unique winter program, "Between the Tides," where young students explore the East River’s intertidal zone through hands-on science. It’s an urban outdoor classroom bursting with marine life and environmental wonder.
$150 | Up to 35 Students | Chaperones Required
Discover the vibrant intertidal zone of the East River with Brooklyn Bridge Park's "Between the Tides" program. Students in grades 1-4 engage in hands-on exploration, using quadrats to investigate and document their findings on the shore. This unique outdoor experience combines science with the beauty of nature in a dynamic learning environment.
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: Pebble 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
Winter weather near the water can be chilly and windy—wear layers to stay warm during the outdoor activities.
Tide pools and muddy areas require waterproof footwear to keep feet dry and comfortable.
Scheduling your visit during low tide reveals the most marine life and tidal features for exploration.
Tools like clipboards help children record observations easily while standing outdoors.
Brooklyn Bridge Park was developed on reclaimed piers and industrial land, opening in 2010 to create waterfront access and conservation within a dense urban environment.
Brooklyn Bridge Park emphasizes sustainable urban ecology by protecting native species and educating visitors about tidal ecosystems to foster environmental stewardship.
Protects feet from cold water and mud while exploring tidal pools.
winter specific
Helps maintain body heat in chilly waterside conditions.
winter specific
Keeps hands warm during prolonged outdoor activities.
winter specific
Facilitates note-taking and scientific observation recording for kids.