The NJSEA offers many opportunities for families to enjoy the Meadowlands stunning natural beauty and natural resources. There is no charge for NJSEA activities.
DeKorte Park
The home of the NJSEA, DeKorte Park features 3.5 miles of walking paths, panoramic views of wetlands and waterways, and birds galore, all framed by the New York City skyline. A series of colorful, interpretive signs highlight the park’s resources and the wildlife that inhabit its tidal waters, marshes, and uplands. These informational signs provide visitors with an understanding and appreciation of the Meadowlands’ unique and diverse urban eco-system.
The park is open from 7 a.m. to dusk daily, excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Information: 201-460-1700 and www.njsea.com
Pontoon Boat Tours - June through September
The NJSEA’s highly popular guided pontoon boat tours of the Hackensack River provide a unique, up-close perspective of the region’s natural beauty along the water. NJSEA staff lead the leisurely, two-hour tours and discuss the region’s human and environmental history while pointing out birds and other wildlife along the way. Tours launch from River Barge Park, 260 Outwater Lane, Carlstadt.
Information: 201-460-4677 and https://www.njsea.com/pontoon-cruises/
Guided Nature Walks
The NJSEA and the Bergen County Audubon Society sponsor nature walks in Meadowlands parks and natural areas yearlong. In addition to its natural beauty, the region is home to more than 290 bird species, including some three dozen on the State and Federal Endangered, Threatened and Species of Concern Lists. Birds that can be seen include Bald Eagles, Osprey, Egrets, Falcons, Great Blue Herons and more. Bring your binoculars!
Information: 201-230-4983 and https://www.njsea.com/nature-walks/
Public Programs
The NJSEA and Bergen County Audubon Society co-sponsor family-friendly public programs each year. The events stress environmental protection and education. All programs take place at DeKorte Park.
Butterfly Day
Sunday, July 21 (Rain Date Sunday, July 28)
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Butterfly walks, talks and information tables. Crafts, games, costume contest and giveaways for kids.
Information: 201-460-1700 and www.njsea.com
Meadowlands Birding Festival
Sunday, Oct. 6 (Rain or Shine)
Time TBD
Live Raptor Shows; walks - including in areas that are otherwise closed to the public; presentations; information tables.
Information: 201-460-1700 and www.njsea.com
William D. McDowell Observatory
The NJSEA William D. McDowell Observatory in DeKorte Park is open to the public for stargazing every Wednesday evening, year-round, weather permitting and excluding holidays. Visitors see and learn about planets, constellations and other celestial bodies. The research-grade telescope has a 20-inch mirror housed beneath a six-meter retractable dome. Hours vary by season.
Information: 201-460-1700 and https://www.njsea.com/observatory/
