Oyster Science Adventures at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Difficulty
easy
Duration
90 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for children with basic stamina to stand and participate outdoors.
Overview
Dive into the fascinating world of New York Harbor’s eastern oyster with Brooklyn Bridge Park’s hands-on science program for kids. A unique outdoor classroom experience on Pier 5 reveals the oyster's vital role in the local ecosystem.
The Awesome Oyster (Gr. 1-8)
$200 | Up to 35 Students | Chaperones Required
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the incredible journey of the eastern oyster in New York Harbor with Brooklyn Bridge Park's outdoor program, "The Awesome Oyster." Students in grades 1-8 will engage in hands-on learning, exploring the oyster's vital role in the ecosystem while taking scientific measurements 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.
THE AWESOME OYSTER (GRADES 1-8)
This is a fully outdoor program available to book April-November.
Welcome to the epic story of the eastern oyster in the New York Harbor — one of the greatest NYC comeback stories of all time. Using our oyster gardens in Brooklyn Bridge Park, students will learn about this keystone species and the history of its East River habitat, take scientific measurements of live oysters, and discover the oyster’s ecological importance to the New York Harbor.
Duration: 90 minutes
Location: Pier 5. If class is outside, you should anticipate mixed sunlight and shade. Seating will be on picnic tables, and the ground is concrete.
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Outdoor Clothing
Expect a mix of sun and shade on concrete surfaces; sturdy shoes and layered clothing work best.
Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key during the 90-minute session outside, especially in warmer months.
Chaperone Requirement
Ensure adequate adult supervision as groups require chaperones for safety and engagement.
Arrive On Time
Programs begin promptly; late arrivals may miss critical parts of the experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Double-crested cormorants often perch on park piers
- Fiddler crabs and shorebirds along the shoreline margins
History
Brooklyn Bridge Park was built on reclaimed industrial piers and has become a pioneering urban waterfront restoration project since its opening in the 2000s.
Conservation
Brooklyn Bridge Park actively supports oyster restoration efforts that improve water quality and create habitat in New York Harbor.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Protect feet on concrete surfaces and support standing activities.
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Shield against sun exposure during outdoor lessons in mixed sunlight.
spring|summer|fall specific
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the 90-minute outdoor session.
Light Rain Jacket
Helpful for unpredictable weather and light showers on the waterfront.
spring|fall specific