What ages is the program designed for?

The program is tailored to students in grades PreK through 5, focusing on interactive learning suited to young children.

Is the class held indoors or outdoors?

The entire program takes place inside Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Environmental Education Center, providing a controlled environment.

Are chaperones required for student groups?

Yes, adult chaperones must accompany all student groups to assist with supervision and engagement.

Can schools reschedule if there is bad weather?

Programs canceled due to severe weather can be rescheduled once free of charge or refunded minus a small booking fee.

How many students can participate at once?

Each session accommodates up to 35 students, ideal for manageable group sizes and personalized activities.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations over two weeks in advance receive a full refund minus a booking fee; later cancellations may be partially refunded or not at all.

Habitat Learning at Brooklyn Bridge Park's Education Center | Eco Tour | Wildlife

Brooklyn Bridge Park, stretching along Brooklyn’s East River waterfront, offers more than scenic skyline views and urban trails—it’s also a gateway into environmental education for younger adventurers. The park's Environmental Education Center hosts the “Habitats and their Inhabitants” program, designed specifically for PreK-5 students to interact directly with the wildlife and ecosystems woven into this unique urban green space.

This fully indoor, hands-on session invites children to observe local animals and plants up close, fostering an interactive learning environment that goes beyond textbooks. Participants dive into the specifics of the park’s habitats—from its freshwater wetlands and salt marshes to its woodlands—examining the species adapted to thrive here. The program blends watchful observation with tactile experiences, including handling specimens and constructing detailed dioramas, crafting a tangible connection to nature’s complexity.

The program’s hour-long format fits neatly into school schedules, supporting Common Core and New York State learning standards while engaging young learners with inquiry-based activities. Serving over 10,000 students annually, Brooklyn Bridge Park Education leverages the park itself as a living lab—a valuable community resource bridging urban life and environmental stewardship.

What sets this experience apart is its location amidst one of New York City's premier recreational areas. While the city buzzes overhead, the park’s carefully preserved habitats offer vital green spaces for migratory birds, amphibians, and other wildlife, making it an essential sanctuary within a sprawling metropolis.

School groups and families seeking to deepen their understanding of urban ecosystems will find this program a rare opportunity. It highlights the critical balance between nature and city life and fosters early environmental awareness in children, planting seeds for future conservation efforts. Brooklyn Bridge Park’s educational initiatives stand as a vivid reminder that nature's lessons are never far away, even in the heart of Brooklyn.