Bundle Up and Join The Fun: Winter Adventures with The Urban Park Rangers

Photo: NYC Parks / Daniel Avila

From identifying winter birds to crafting art inspired by the season, free programming by NYC Parks’ Urban Park Rangers helps New Yorkers learn and connect with the environment

Winter is a great time to explore New York City’s natural environment, and NYC Parks’ Urban Park Rangers are here with free programming for the entire family! Bundle up to learn about the flora and fauna you can see during the cold winter months, or get your creative juices flowing with arts & crafts workshops. All programs are entirely free and open to all. 

A full list of winter events is available on the NYC Parks website, nyc.gov/parks. Some highlights include: 

Brooklyn: 

Winter Sensory Perception Hike 

Seaview Avenue Lawn in Canarsie Park 

Saturday, February 1, 2025, 11 a.m. – Noon 

Explore the sights, sounds, smells and feel of winter on this exploratory hike. Connect with nature in fun and new ways while learning more about the season. 

Bronx: 

Astronomy: The Winter Sky 

Van Cortlandt Nature Center in Van Cortlandt Park 

Saturday, January 18, 2025, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 

Winter is a prime season for stargazing. The cold air clears the night sky of clouds and creates ideal conditions for seeing the stars, planets, and other celestial highlights. 

Manhattan: 

Winter Nature Crafts 

Track in Thomas Jefferson Park 

Saturday, January 25, 2025, 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. 

Get creative as we use the park as an inspiration to construct a winter inspired nature craft. All crafts material will be provided. You must supply the creativity and positive vibes. 

Queens: 

Birding: Winter Birds 

Rose Avenue and Oak Avenue in Kissena Park 

Sunday, January 19, 2025, 11 a.m. – Noon 

Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best viewing spots in New York City to see migratory birds. Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Please bring your own binoculars. Join us on this Ranger led walk along the trails identifying various woodland birds and other birds that have migrated for the winter. 

Staten Island: 

Winter Tree ID 

School Road and Bay Street in Von Briesen Park 

Saturday, January 25, 2025, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 

Trees have a special place in our environment. Join us for a hike of Von Briesen Park in search of different tree species and learn some ways to identify these trees during the changing season.