The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) holds the land lease for and provides for the ongoing operation of the internationally renowned MetLife Sports Complex and is the regional planning and zoning authority for the Meadowlands District, which consists of parts of 14 towns in Bergen and Hudson counties.
The NJSEA offers many opportunities for families to enjoy the Meadowlands stunning natural beauty and natural resources.
Pontoon Boat and Canoe Tours
June Through September
The NJSEA’s highly popular guided pontoon boat cruises and canoe tours of the Hackensack River provide a unique, up-close perspective of the region’s natural beauty along the water. Sports Authority staff lead the leisurely, two to three 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 in Carlstadt.
Information: 201-460-4677 or www.njsea.com
Guided Nature Walks
The NJSEA and the Bergen County Audubon Society sponsor twice-monthly nature walks in parks and natural areas throughout the Meadowlands on the first Sunday and third Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon. In addition to its natural beauty, the region is home to more than 285 bird species including majestic Bald Eagles, Osprey, Egrets and Falcons.
Information: 201-460-4619 or www.njsea.com
William D. McDowell Observatory
The NJSEA William D. McDowell Observatory in DeKorte Park is open to the public for free stargazing every Wednesday evening. 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: 201-460-4619 or www.njsea.com
Special events in 2019 at DeKorte Park:
Sunday, June 30
Meadowlands Native Plant Day
Time TBD
An exploration of native plants in DeKorte Park and the Meadowlands region featuring talks and walks led by plant experts. Rain date is Sunday, July 7. Stay tuned for more information!
Information: 201-460-4619 or www.njsea.com
Tuesday, July 23
Meadowlands Moth Night
Time TBD
Our annual Moth Night is part of National Moth Week, which promotes a better understanding of the importance of these amazing, lesser-known cousins of butterflies. Hear a talk by a moth expert and then venture out into DeKorte Park where we’ll be attracting moths using industrial lights and sugar bait.
Information: 201-460-4619 or www.njsea.com
Sunday, July 28
10th Annual Butterfly Day
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Our most highly-anticipated event of the year! Butterfly Day has evolved from a walk that drew 70 people a decade ago into a family-friendly event that now attracts upward of 1,000 people to DeKorte Park each summer. The day includes walks, talks, onsite experts to help identify the various butterflies and kids activities including a Scavenger Hunt, Face Painting, Butterfly costume contest (12 and under) and crafts. Rain date Sunday, Aug. 4.
Information: 201-460-4619 or www.njsea.com
Saturday, September 14
Meadowlands Birding Festival
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
This spectacular day will include bird walks, talks, raptor visits, kid’s activities and more celebrating the Meadowlands amazing bird population. This year’s keynote speaker is Sharon Stiteler aka The Bird Chick – http://www.birdchick.com/
More information to come. (Rain or shine)
Information: 201-460-4619 or www.njsea.com
