Queens Out of Doors

Get on the water — or just admire it from land — along the New York City Water Trail!The New York City Water Trail - NYC ParksNew York City Water Trail AssociationLong Island City Community BoathouseGateway Bike and BoathouseHarborLabBirding by Canoe at Hook CreekGateway National Recreation Area calendarOutdoor Highlights:Powell’s Cove Forest RestorationRestoration Fridays at Forest ParkJoe Michael’s Mile Plug PlantingBirding Big Day at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeNorth Channel Bridge Beach Clean UpBirding Wellness Walk at Gantry Plaza State ParkRockaway Community Park Super Steward: Pathkeeper TrainingForest Park Hike and Pick at the Yellow TrailVernal Pond Restoration at Highland ParkPollinator Festival at Beach 43rd Street Waterfront ParkMother’s Day Birding at Forest ParkMother’s Day Rose Garden Volunteering at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkPlant ID Hike and Removal at Fort TottenMother Nature Mammals Exploration at Kissena ParkMother’s Day at the Volker Orth MuseumPages by the Pond at Roy Wilkins ParkFarm Stand Opening Day at Queens Farm MuseumIt’s My Park at Hunters Point South ParkRestoration Fridays at Highland ParkRoller Skating Party at Rochdale ParkSheep Shearing Festival at Queens Farm MuseumLove a Tree Day at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkGravestone Preservation Workshop at Lawrence CemeterySolar Observing with the Amateur Astronomers Association/New York Hall of Science Community CelebrationPuerto Rican Herbalism Tour at Queens Botanical GardenHistoric Fort Totten TourFamily Fun Day at Playground 75Family Fun Day at Judge Moses Weinstein PlaygroundPapermaking at Queens Botanical GardenHorseshoe Crab Festival at Sunset Cove ParkIntro to Botany Hike at Cunningham ParkVictorian Lawn Tea Party at Volker Orth MuseumWorld Bee Day Insect Exploration at Juniper Valley Park

Explore Bowne Park with me!Bowne Park on NYC Parks websiteBowne Park HistorySwamp Oak at Bowne Park - Great TreesBowne Park on Tree Survey MapOutdoor Highlights:Creatures of the Night: Bat Appreciation Hike at Forest ParkWaking Up the Garden at Garden by the BayBirding: Spring Migration at Rockaway Community ParkMeet the Beekeeper at Queens Botanical GardenSpringfest Family Fun Day at Archie Spigner ParkHighland Park Earth Day Celebration Night Hike at Crocheron ParkBirding with The Queens County Bird Club at Forest ParkPollinator Garden Planting Day at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeBirding for Beginners at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeForest Park Earth Day CelebrationSpring Cherry Blossom Walk at Flushing Meadows Corona ParkDiscovery Hike: Vernal Pools at Night at Cunningham ParkTrees of Life & Gotham Greens Volunteer DayBee-A-Pollinator Workday at Queens Farm MuseumEarth Day Hike and Clean Up at Powells Cove ParkGreen Garden/Green Planet at Volker Orth MuseumIt’s My Park at Hunters Point South ParkSunset Birding at Gantry Plaza State ParkKissena Park Forest Restoration and Nature WalkArbor Day at Little Bay ParkCity Nature Challenge: Spring Ephemeral Flowers at Idlewild ParkCity Nature Challenge: Fungi Walk at Udall’s Park PreserveArbor Day: Celebrate the Trees at Hermon A. MacNeil ParkCity Nature Challenge: Spring Ephemeral Flowers at Alley Pond ParkIdlewild Tree and Shrub PlantingIt’s My Park at College Point FieldsIt’s My Park at Udall’s Park PreserveEarth Month Cleanup at American ParkCity Nature Challenge: Forest Park HikeIt’s My Park at Springfield ParkCity Nature Challenge: Bio-marathon and Invertebrate Identification at Alley Pond ParkEarth Month Volunteer Day at Two Coves Community GardenArbor Day Planting at Forest ParkSpring Kids Art in the Park: Mini Canvas Painting at Forest ParkSpring Garden Tour at Queens Botanical GardenFort and Dunes Hike at Fort TildenCity Nature Challenge: Spring Ephemeral Flowers at Alley Pond ParkIdlewild Park Education TourSpring Wildflower Walk at Alley Pond ParkCity Nature Challenge: Biodiversity Hike at Roy Wilkins ParkCity Nature Challenge: Spring Ephemeral Flowers at Forest ParkCity Nature Challenge: Spring Flowering Tree ID at Astoria ParkSpring Migration Birding Hike at Oakland LakeCity Nature Challenge: Bioblitz at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeCity Nature Challenge: Spring Ephemeral Flowers at Cunningham ParkCity Nature Challenge: Spring Ephemeral Flowers at Idlewild ParkIt’s My Park at Gorman PlaygroundI Love My Park Day at Gantry Plaza State ParkRockaway Beach and Jamaica Bay Bike TourIt’s My Park at Rockaway Beach and BoardwalkAsian Pacific American Heritage Month: Magnificent Street Trees of FlushingBirding: Warbler Watch at Forest ParkFantastic Fungi Mushroom ID Hike at Alley Pond ParkAsian Pacific American Heritage Month: Evergreen Cemetery

Species Deep Dive: Tree SwallowsTree Swallows on All About Birds from Cornell Lab of OrnithologyOutdoor Highlights:Restoration Fridays at Forest ParkUdalls Cove Super Steward: Pathkeeper TrainingAlley Pond Forest RestorationIt’s My Park at Glenwood LandingIdlewild Park Forest RestorationVolunteer Day at Arverne GardensSpring Kids Arts in the Park: Faux Stained GlassNature Exploration Hike at Alley Pond Environmental CenterA History of Queens Through Plants at Queens Botanical GardenSigns of Spring Hike at Highland ParkBeginner Fishing at Brookville ParkIt’s My Park at Sitting Area/Astoria ParkSpring Has Sprung Wildlife Walk at Springfield ParkNature Trivia: Disc-Golfering Your Park at Highland ParkEarth Week Events at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkKids Week: Earth Month Native Plant Party at Captain Tilly ParkYoga with Ambeka in Crocheron ParkHighland Park Horticulture HelpersKids Week: Animal Habitats at Forest ParkKids Week: Nature Puppet Show at Fort TildenTot Time at Gantry State Plaza ParkKids Week: Earth Month Eco-Crafts at Travers ParkKids Week: Nature Color Hunt at Rufus King ParkIt’s My Park at Margaret I. Carmen Green - Weeping Beech near John Bowne HouseEstuary Fair at Gantry State Plaza ParkApple Blossom Carnival at Queens Farm MuseumMagnetic Archery and Foam Axe Throwing At Astoria Heights PlaygroundIt’s My Park at Little Bay ParkE-waste, Textiles, Paint Collection Event at Queens Botanical GardenHistoric New York: Fort Totten at Fort Totten ParkPages by the Pond at Roy Wilkins ParkPuppets at the Park: Tina the Terrified Turtle at Gantry Plaza State Park

Spring Peepers on WikipediaThe Amphibians and Reptiles of New York StateOutdoor Highlights:Powell’s Cove Park Forest RestorationRestoration Fridays at Forest ParkVernal Equinox Hike at Fort TildenSpring Equinox at the Garden by the BayRockaway Beach Clean-Up and Bird WalkSpring Clean-Up at Highland ParkAstoria Street Tree Care with Super StewardsHoli Festival at Queens Farm MuseumDiscovery Hike: Vernal Pools at Alley Pond ParkSigns of Spring Walk at Gantry State Plaza ParkUpcycling Nature Crafts at Socrates Sculpture ParkFarm Workshop: Crop Planning and Seed Starting at Queens Botanical GardenIt’s My Park at Powell’s Cove ParkSensory Perception Hike at Francis Lewis ParkDiscovery Hike: Marine Mammals at Rockaway BeachSpringtime Planting Workshop and Gardening Tips at Volker Orth Museum Astronomy on the Waterfront at Hunters Point South ParkQueens Landing Open HouseSpring Treasure Hunt at Gantry Plaza State ParkKissena Park Forest RestorationRestoration Fridays at Highland ParkMeet Our Animals: Quaint Quails at Queens Farm MuseumKissena Corridor Park Debris Removal Highland Park Horticulture HelpersForest Park Horticulture HelpersSaltwater Fishing at Herman A. MacNeil ParkSigns of Spring Hike at Brookville ParkNature Exploration and Clean Up at Hook Creek ParkDiscovery Hike: Pond Ecology at Roy Wilkins ParkOpening Picnic: Twin Urns at Queens Botanical Garden

It’s starting to look like spring!Spring Peeper recording from Audubon GuidesOutdoor Highlights:Signs of Spring Walk at Arverne East PreserveTapped Traditions: Maple Syrup and Native American Heritage at the Queens Farm MuseumVolunteer Workday at Sparrows Nest Community GardenOutdoor Skills: Knot Tying at Crocheron ParkIt’s My Park at Forest ParkBirding for Beginners at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeWomen’s History Month: Know Your Female Birds at Kissena ParkNature’s Workshop: Beginner Nature Basket Weaving at Bowne ParkRestoration Friday at Highland ParkFantastic Fungi Mushroom ID Hike at Forest ParkSpring Clean Up at Forest ParkCunningham Park Forest RestorationGather Around the Campfire at Queensbridge ParkChildren’s Garden Open House at Queens Botanical GardenDiscovery Hike: Vernal Pools at Alley Pond ParkBirding: Winter Waterfowl at Highland ParkIntroduction to Astronomy for Kids at Queens Landing Boathouse & Environmental Center

So Many Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors in Queens!MLK Jr. Day of Service Events:Forest ParkHighland ParkFlushing Meadows Corona ParkIdlewild ParkJackson HeightsRockaway: Shore Front LabyrinthArverne East Nature PreserveRockaway: O’Donaghue ParkBroad Channel American BallfieldOther events:Watercolor Workshop: Greenhouse Colors at Queens Botanical GardenWinter Exploration and Cleanup Event at Arverne East PreserveWildlife Viewing: City Squirrels at Forest ParkWinter Birds at Rockaway Community ParkUdalls Cove Super Steward: Pathkeeper TrainingWinter Sensory Perception Hike at Alley Pond ParkWinter Wander Nature Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeWinter Birds at Kissena ParkIce Age Hike at Cunningham ParkKissena Park Forest RestorationDwarf Goats at the Queens Farm MuseumNational Seed Swap Day at Queens Farm MuseumAlley Pond Forest RestorationThe World’s Fair Adventure Quest at Flushing Meadows Corona ParkOutdoor Skills: Winter Wilderness Survival at Queensbridge ParkUrban Wildlife: Groundhogs at Fort TottenHistoric New York: Vaudeville Stars of the Evergreens CemeteryDiscovery Hike: World Wetlands Day at Brookville ParkWorld Wetlands Day Webinar: The Eastern Oyster

Here’s line up of a few fun activities to start off your new year!Kids Week: Gather ‘Round the Campfire and Tree Cookie Craft at Poppenhusen PlaygroundAlley Giant Hike (Vigorous) at Alley Pond ParkNature’s Workshop: Natural Inks and Dyes at Sorrentino Recreation CenterBirding: Winter Waterfowl at Springfield ParkForest Park Winter Vine SweepIt’s My Park at Forest ParkBug Buddies: Centipedes & Millipedes at Queens Farm Museum

My thanks to all the great guest who joined me in 2025!Outdoor HighlightsWinter Wildlife Walk at Kissena ParkWinter Solstice Evergreen Tree ID Hike at Forest ParkWinter Solstice Sunset Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeGeology: Glacial Landscapes at Cunningham ParkGeology: New York’s Last Ice Age at Highland ParkGolden Hour Photography at Hunter’s Point South ParkKids Week: Move With Nature Stretching Party at Kissena ParkKids Week: Ranger Games at Elmhurst ParkKids Week: Survival Skills for Kids at Astoria ParkNew Year’s Day Hike at Cunningham Park50th Annual New Year’s Day Walk at Jamaica BayFirst Day Hike at Gantry Plaza State Park

Some great shopping ideas for special gifts that help the outdoors in Queens!Queens Out of Doors podcast shopQueens Botanical Garden store hoursQueens Botanical Garden membershipQueens Farm Museum StoreQueens Farm Museum membershipJamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center and shopQueens Historical Society online shopQueens Historical Society membershipDown to Earth Market at Cunningham ParkOutdoor HighlightsAlley Pond Park Trail WorkForest Park Natural Areas RestorationFort Totten Park Playground Volunteer EventJoy on the Farm at Queens Farm MuseumJamaica Bay Winter Wildlife WorkshopBirding: Winter Waterfowl at Brookville ParkForest Park Super HikeGather Around the Campfire at Queensbridge ParkDiscovery Hike: Animal Adaptations at Idlewild ParkWinter Wonder at Queens Botanical GardenBirding: Winter Waterfowl at Baisley Pond ParkHidden Gems of Queens: Udall’s CoveChristmas Bird Count at Highland ParkChristmas Bird Count at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeAnnual Holiday House Tour with the Queens Historical SocietyWinter Tree ID at Crocheron ParkAstronomy: Geminid Meteor Shower at Cunningham ParkHorseshoe Crabs: A State of the Bay online event (Zoom)Rain Garden Stewardship Volunteer Days at Queens Botanical GardenStargazing at Gantry Plaza State Park

Let’s talk turkey as we get ready for Thanksgiving!Wildlife NYC: Eastern Wild TurkeyAll About Birds: Wild TurkeyBenjamin Franking and Wild TurkeyOutdoor HighlightsQueens Botanical Garden Coat DriveQueens Botanical Garden Farm StandKissena Park Tree and Shrub PlantingRestoration Fridays at Highland ParkGolden Pond Restoration at Crocheron ParkIt’s My Park at Phil Scooter Rizzuto ParkIt’s My Park at Glenwood LandingIt’s My Park at Playground One FortyBeginner Birding at Captain Tilly ParkForest Park Leaf CrunchForest Park Bulb PlantingVolunteer Workday at Sparrow’s Nest Community GardenGather Around the Campfire at Rockaway BeachIt’s a Horse of Course Hike and Greet at Roy Wilkins Recreation CenterThe World’s Fair Adventure Quest at Flushing Meadows Corona ParkForest Park Hort HelpersKissena Park Foret RestorationRestoration Fridays at Forest ParkPost=Thanksgiving Hike: The Alley GiantNature Scavenger Hunt at Baisley Pond ParkWinter Waterfowl Walk at Gantry Plaza State ParkUrban Wildlife: Canines of New York City at Oakland LakeNature Exploration and Clean Up at Potamogeton PondWorld Wildlife Conservation Day Bingo at Oak Ridge in Forest Park

I took part in the 15 mile Queens Park Super Hike!The parks:Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkQueens Botanical GardenKissena ParkKissena CorridorCunningham ParkAlley Pond ParkOakland LakeJoe Michaels MileFort TottenOutdoor HighlightsVeterans Day Celebration at Forest ParkSunset Cove CleanupAlley Pond Park Super Steward: Pathkeeper TrainingFrom Seed to Community: A Far Rockaway Community Garden TourDiscovery Hike: Nature’s Lightbulbs at Lewis Latimer HouseNative American History Month: Lenape BotanyPumpkin Smash at Queens Botanical GardenRanger Gardening Club: Restoring the Garden at Fort Totten ParkNovember Clean Sweep at Brant Point Wildlife SanctuaryForest Park Super Steward: Pathkeeper TrainingHighland Park Leaf Crunch Forest Park Leaf CrunchNature Meditation Hike at Powell’s Cove ParkFall Colors Watercolor Workshop at Queens Botanical GardenWaterfowl Birding at Baisley Pond ParkNocturnal Sensory Perception Hike at Alley Pond ParkNight Owl at Queens Farm Musuem

Support your local farmer at the markets across Queens!Queens Farm Museum MarketNYC Farmers Market MapDown to Earth Market at Cunningham ParkGrowNYC Markets in Queens:Jackson HeightsSunnysideCoronaElmhurstForest HillsRidgewoodFlushingForest Park/Richmond HillOutdoor HighlightsRestoration Fridays at Forest ParkRestoration Fridays at Highland ParkCleanup at Bayswater City ParkIdlewild Park Tree and Shrub PlantingKissena Park Forest RestorationNovember Clean Sweep at Rockaway Community ParkIt’s My Park at Hunter’s Point South ParkIt’s My Park at Russell Sage PlaygroundIt’s My Park at Bowne PlaygroundIt’s My Park at Rockaway FreewayIt’s My Park at Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto ParkTrees Count at Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto ParkTrees Count at The Olde Towne Flushing Burial Ground Open House New York: Fort TottenOpen House New York: Sustainability Tour at Queens Botanical GardenOpen House New York: Bayside Historical Society CastleFall Family Fun Day at Brookville ParkHalloween Harvest Festival at Socrates Sculpture ParkForest Park Fall FestivalHalloween at Queens Botanical GardenBatty Over Halloween at Astoria ParkFrightful Fishing at Gantry Plaza State ParkMaze by Moonlight at Queens Farm MuseumRockaway Fall Festival at O’Donohue Park Toddler Tunes and Tales at Idlewild Environmental CenterFrom Seed to Table: Honoring the Land with Plantxchange at Highland ParkCommunity Volunteering at the Queens Botanical Garden FarmThe Night Shift: Jamaica Bay After Dark at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeJunior Naturalists: Autumn Adventures at Idlewild Environmental CenterGo Batty at Queens Farm MuseumBilingual (Spanish) Medicinal Plant Hike at Ridgewood Reservoir Witchy Plant Tour at Queens Botanical GardenNature Exploration at Captain Tilly ParkQueens County Park Super Hike starting at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkYou’re the Bee’s Knees, Honey! at Queens Farm MuseumExperience Civil War Living History at Fort TottenPark Pals Pop-Up: Native Plants and Pollinators of Rockaway at Arverne East Nature Preserve

Talking with Dr. Andrew Greller from Queens College about the wonders of fall foliage!Dr. Andrew Greller - Queens CollegeOutdoor HighlightsCity of Forest DayQueens Farm Museum October calendarPoetry in the Garden at Queens Botanical GardenAutumn Sunrise Walk at Sunset Cove ParkRaptormania at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeForest Park Horticulture HelpersHerp Happenings at Cunningham Park19th Century Baseball at Fort Totten ParkAutumn Night Hike at Cunningham ParkCreatures of the Night at Forest Park: BatsQueens Out of Doors Episode 63 on Bats

Last call for Movies Under the Stars this year!How to Train Your Dragon at Bowne ParkToy Story at Bayside FieldsIF at Evergreen ParkLilo & Stitch at Hinton ParkCaptain America: Brave New World at Rainey ParkVenom: The Last Dance at Crocheron ParkOutdoor Highlights:Fishing at the Gantries at Gantry Plaza State ParkInternational Coastal Cleanup at Dubos Point Wildlife SanctuaryCanoeing and Cleanup at Hook Creek ParkBirding: Fall Migration at Highland ParkRaptor Fest at Baisley Pond ParkClimate Week: Cleanup at Socrates Sculpture Park and Hallet’s Cove BeachClimate Week: Shoreline Ecosystem Resilience at Arverne Nature PreserveClimate Week: Workshops at Idlewild Environmental CenterJunior Naturalist: Autumn Adventures at Idlewild ParkBirding: Raptors at Rockaway Community Park42nd Annual Queens County Agricultural FairOktoberfest Flushing Style: Sauerkraut and Kimchi at Volker Orth MuseumBuild a Birdfeeder at Juniper Valley ParkApples and Honey Day at Queens Botanical GardenAutumn Seasonal Insect Exploration at Highland ParkPollinator Festival at The Garden by the BayUrban Wildlife: Raccoons at Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park

It’s a quick episode with highlights of the Outdoor Highlights!Udall’s Cove Super Steward: Pathkeeper TrainingImmersive Butterfly Experience at Queens FarmYoga at Crocheron ParkLittle Opera Theater of New York Presents American Opera Scenes: A Concert for 9/11 at Socrates Sculpture Park

Find your bliss at Crocheron Park with yoga instructor Ambeka Khadse!Friends of Crocheron Park - Yoga Series and moreOutdoor Highlights:Restoration Friday at Highland ParkNature Exploration and Cleanup at Sunset Cove ParkAstoria Heights Active: Salsa at the Park with Salsa in QueensRockaway Beach Boardwalk Bike TourBirding for Beginners at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeYoung Tree Care at Forest ParkJoCo Marsh Kayak ExcursionVolunteer Gardening at Hunters. Point ParkNational Beach Day Nature Exploration and Cleanup at Brant Point Wildlife SanctuarySensory Perception Hike at Powell’s Cove ParkHistoric New York: Privateers, Pirates, and New York’s Golden Age of Piracy at Rockaway BeachCatch the Buzz About Bees at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeNature’s Workshop: Natural Cordage and Weaving at Captain Tilly Park

Trees Count happens only once every 10 years, so get involved on this census and help your friendly neighborhood street trees!NYC Parks - Trees Count CensusTrees Count Census 2015 resultsNYC Parks Tree ID GuideUpcoming Trees Count Events:Trees Count at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkTrees Count at Lawrence Virgilio PlaygroundTrees Count at Captain Tilly ParkOutdoor Highlights:Idlewild Trail Walk at Idlewild Environmental CenterToddler Tunes & Tales at Idlewild Environmental CenterHong Kong Dragon Boat FestivalVolunteer Workday: Arverne GardensMagnetic Archery in Travers ParkHallets Cove Community KayakingInsect Exploration: Insects of the Night at Alley Pond ParkSeining & Beach Cleanup at Rockaway Community ParkWildlife Viewing: Resident Rodents at Forest ParkHip to Hip Theater Company presents Hamlet at Socrates Sculpture ParkFishing Tutorial with the Bayside Anglers at Alley Pond Environmental CenterSunset Meditation with Mindful Astoria at Socrates Sculpture ParkZumba Under the Stars at Rockaway BeachIdlewild Environmental Center Critter EncounterQueens Jazz Trail Concert at Forest ParkBeginner Yoga at Forest ParkFrank Charles Park CleanupForest Park Hike & Pick along the Yellow TrailBasic Canoeing at Oakland LakeJamaica Bay Open Paddle Kayaking20th Annual Shorebird Festival at Jamaica BayHistorical Games at Margaret I. Carman GreenHip to Hip Theater Company presents The Tempest at Socrates Sculpture ParkRockaway Refresh: Flow & Clean at Beach 98th StreetLove 2 Love You Donna Summer Tribute at Forest Park

Learn about the work of the NYC Plover Project’s work to help Piping Plovers with Chris Allieri.NYC Plover Project websiteNYC Plover Project’s Facebook pageNYC Plover Project’s Instagram pageAll About Birds: Piping PloverOutdoor Highlights:Queens Botanical Garden’s extended evening hoursHistoric New York: John Golden and Crocheron ParkCleanup at Hamilton Beach ParkTree ID for Birders at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeCivil War Reenactment at Queens Historical SocietyRiis Landing Kayaking for BeginnersWeekend Fitness Classes at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkMicroorganisms Exploration at Roy Wilkins ParkTrees Count at Queensbridge ParkWorld Music Concerts at Forest Park’s Oak RidgeJamaica Bay Book Club at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge46th Annual Thunderbird American Indian Powwow at Queens Farm MuseumBeachcombing with a Ranger at Riis ParkBirding: All About Pigeons at Astoria ParkDiscover Jamaica Bay: Sunset Kayak and Marsh Island TourBirding: Shorebirds at Rockaway ParkSeashells of the North Atlantic at Sunset Cove ParkBug Buddies at Queens Farm MuseumUrban Wildlife: Reptiles and Amphibians at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkSunset Fishing at Gantry Plaza State Park

It’s the 4th of July and time for a history refresh on how Queens was connected to the Revolutionary War with Jason Antos of the Queens Historical Society..Queens Historical SocietyOutdoor Highlights:Nature Exploration: Urban Wildlife at Captain Tilly ParkHistoric New York: The Revolutionary War’s Hidden Environmental Story in Forest ParkNature’s Workshop: Natural Inks and Dyes at Margaret Carman Green - Weeping BeechAstoria Pool: Senior SplashRockaway RefreshWaterfront Summer Concert Series at Astoria ParkJamaica Bay FestivalBirds and Butterflies of Summer at Jamaica BayFishing at the Gantries - at Gantry Plaza State ParkWild About Wildlife at Murray PlaygroundFantastic Fungi Mushroom ID Hike at Alley Pond ParkSolar Observing at Atlas Park Mall with the Amateur Astronomers AssociationArt in the Park: Sea Glass Jewelry at Gantry Plaza State Park

Let’s get batty and learn about your local, friendly neighborhood bats!Creatures of the Night: Bats at Forest ParkGotham Bat ConservancyNYC.gov bat information web pageOutdoor Highlights:Science in the Woods: Forest Floor Invertebrate Exploration at Alley Pond Environmental CenterConservation Chalk Art at Rockaway BeachBasic Canoeing at Baisley Pond Park

Learn how to make a BIG impact — become an NYC Parks Steward!NYC Parks Stewardship NYC Parks Super StewardsAstoria Street Tree Care on 6/13Woodhaven Street Tree Care on 6/13Corona Street Tree Care on 6/14Idlewild Park Natural Area Restoration on 6/14Elmhurst Street Tree Care on 6/20Horseshoe Crab Tagging and Coastal Cleanup on 6/25Kissena Park Forest Restoration on 6/27Outdoor Highlights:Solar Observing at Atlas Park with the Amateur Astronomers AssociationPretty Pigeon Day at Gantry Plaza State ParkMetropolitan Opera SummerStage at Socrates Sculpture ParkIndependence Day Celebration at Fort Totten Park

Alas, the schedule issues continue because I’ve been dealing with Covid this week! But still wanted to let you know about a few fantastic outdoor events this weekend.Strawberry Festival at Queens Farm MuseumSolar Observation with the Amateur Astronomers Association at Atlas ParkLaGuardia Community College Urban Agriculture EventLaGuardia Community College’s Sustainable Urban Agriculture Program

A schedule blow up means that you get to have an extended version of Outdoor Highlights this week. And there’s LOADS going on!Idlewild Park Black Birders Week Bird WalkMorning Bird Walk at Gantry Plaza State ParkJoe Michaels Mile Salt Marsh PlantingAlice in Wonderland Victorian Tea Party at Queens County Farm MuseumCelebrate the Trees of Kew GardensTeen Girls Softball at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkMini Concerts in Dinkins Circle/Flushing Meadows-Corona Park with Queens CollegeAlley Pond Park Adventure Course Birding: Shorebird Families at Rockaway ParkBirding for Beginners at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Stonehenge? Whatever…it’s time for Manhattanhenge and this is your guide!Manhattanhenge info: American Museum of Natural HistoryOutdoor HighlightsSmiling Hogs Head Ranch: Farming FridayHistoric New York: Ridgewood Reservoir Fort Tilden and Dunes Hike

It’s time to celebrate (and learn about) the real native New Yorkers — horseshoe crabs!Horseshoe crab: WikipediaHorseshoe crab: NYC ParksHow to flip a horseshoe crab videoReport a tagged horseshoe crabProject Limulus at Sacred Heart UniversityHorseshoe Crab Festival at Jamaica BayHorseshoe Crab Walk and Coastal Cleanup in the RockawaysOutdoor HighlightsSee above for the Horseshoe Crab Festival and Horseshoe Crab Walk/Coastal CleanupHawk Watch: Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkVictorian Lawn Tea and Music afternoon at the Voelker Orth Museum

The QueensWay is an exciting new green space under development that you are sure to enjoy! Learn more about this wonderful green space for Queens.The QueensWay websiteThe QueensWay - Get InvolvedOutdoor HighlightsIt’s My Park: Andrews GroveIt’s My Park: Lawrence TriangleIt’s My Park: Catharine Turner Richardson ParkIt’s My Park: Hallets Cove PlaygroundEastern Queen Alliance — garden volunteeringMother’s Day Birding at Forest ParkMother Earth Cleanup and Nature Exploration at Rockaway Community Park28th Annual Apple Blossom Carnival at Queens Farm MuseumInsect Exploration: The Motherly Instincts of Insects at Astoria Park

Talking with Wing Kong, an environmental artist, nature photographer, sustainability educator, and all around lovely person doing wonderful work right here in Queens!Wing’s websiteButterflies & Wing on InstagramWing on Fine Art AmericaOutdoor HighlightsEarth Week at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkPark Pals: Signs of SpringHistoric New York: Environmental Impacts of the Civil War

This is Episode 52 and means one year of giving you the Queens Out of Doors podcast! Let’s celebrate!Outdoor HighlightsMagnetic Archery and Foam Axe Throwing at Detective Keith L. Williams ParkGrow and Gather Gardening Program at Queens FarmTree and Compost Giveaway at Queens Botanical Garden

Spring has sprung and blooms are blooming! Listen up and learn about some of our spring flowers.Spring Flowering Bulbs from GrowNYCCornell Flowering Growing GuidePlants in Bloom at Brooklyn Botanic GardenOutdoor HighlightsIt’s My Park at MacDonald ParkForest Bathing Walk at Alley Pond Environmental CenterDiscovery Hike: Disturbed Habitat and Invasive Plant Ecologies

Spring is still a few days away but the calendar is full of spring fever! It’s My Park - Rockaway Freeway Dog ParkGardening with the Eastern Queens AllianceIt’s My Park at Detective Keith L Williams ParkForest Park Winter Vine SweepRockaway Beach Coast CleanupUrban Wildlife Discovery Hike - South Jamaica Infinity GardenWillow Lake Nature Exploration Nature Journaling: Poetry - Gantry Plaza State ParkCompost Beautification Community Volunteer Event at Queens Botanical GardenCompost Site Tour at Queens Botanical GardenWorld Butterfly Day Volunteer Opportunity at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkWomen in the Wilderness at Forest ParkExplore the Future of Farming with Aquaponics at Idlewild Park

Spring is still a few days away but the calendar is full of spring fever! It’s My Park - Rockaway Freeway Dog ParkGardening with the Eastern Queens AllianceIt’s My Park at Detective Keith L Williams ParkForest Park Winter Vine SweepRockaway Beach Coast CleanupUrban Wildlife Discovery Hike - South Jamaica Infinity GardenWillow Lake Nature Exploration Nature Journaling: Poetry - Gantry Plaza State ParkCompost Beautification Community Volunteer Event at Queens Botanical GardenCompost Site Tour at Queens Botanical GardenWorld Butterfly Day Volunteer Opportunity at Flushing Meadows-Corona ParkWomen in the Wilderness at Forest ParkExplore the Future of Farming with Aquaponics at Idlewild Park

Check out rockets and an expansive view of New York City, without even leaving Queens!New York Hall of Science Rocket ParkQueens Museum: Panorama of the City of New YorkQueens Museum: Event CalendarOutdoor Highlights:Spring Clean at Brant Point Wildlife SanctuaryPark Pals: Good Night, Good Morning - Nocturnal AnimalsWomen’s History Month: Know Your Female Birds at Baisley Pond Park

Tis the season to enjoy regular sightings of two goose species that visit us in the winter. And who knew that one was once believed to come from barnacles?!All About Birds: Brant GooseAll About Birds: Snow GooseOutdoor Highlights:World Wildlife Day Celebration at the Park of the AmericasSigns of Spring Scavenger Hunt at Juniper Valley ParkJamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Sunset Wellness Walk

It’s a Not Quite Queens episode of the podcast as I’m exploring Brooklyn’s Canarsie Pier on a cold winter afternoon.Canarie Pier links:Canarsie Pier/Gateway National Recreation AreaCanarsie Pier/The Cultural Landscape FoundationCanarsie Pier/Urban ArchiveBrant Goose/All About BirdsOutdoor Highlights:Plant Pressing and Zine at Jamaica BayWatercolors by the Seaside at Rockaway Beach BoardwalkWinter Tree ID Walk at Elmhurst Park

It’s National Bird Feeding Month and the Great Backyard Bird Count is this weekend! And I get to talk about both with Margaret Fox-Jackson again! What a good day…National Bird Feeding MonthNational Wildlife Federation Backyard Habitat ProgramGreat Backyard Bird CountGreat Backyard Bird Count - How To ParticipateFollow Margaret on: FacebookInstagramTik TokOutdoor Highlights:Winter Bird Walk and Film on Jamaica Bay-Broad Channel at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeCoastal Ecology and Resilience Walk at Rockaway BeachBirds & Their Environs: Real and Imagined at the Voelker Orth Museum

Before there was a Flushing Meadows-Corona Park and before there was a Van Wyck Expressway, there was the Flushing River. Most of it’s filled and diverted, but some remains and Jason D. Antos takes us on a historical tour of the river and beyond.Life Along the Flushing River exhibit at the Queens Historical SocietyOutdoor Highlights:US Fish & Wildlife at Queens Farm MuscumLunar New Year at Queens Botanical GardenWinter Landscape Photography at Rockaway Beach

Too much to do and not enough time to do it — that’s the story for me this week. So for this episode, I’m expanding the Outdoor Highlights. Gosh — there’s a lot going on!Alley Pond Park Trail Maintenance MorningEarth Explorers: Oceans, Climate and SpaceBirding for Beginners Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeWorld Wetlands Day Discovery Hike at Brookville ParkWorld Wetlands Day Celebration at Idewild ParkHands-On Black History: Oysters! at Rufus King ParkBirding: All About Woodpeckers at Alley Pond ParkWildlife Viewing: Groundhogs at Fort Totten ParkLife Along the Flushing River: A History at the Queens Historical SocietyCompost Build Community Volutneer Day at Queens Botanical GardenIdewild’s Science Book Club at Idewild ParkDesign Presentation for the Shoreline Restoration Project in Ramblersville, Howard Beach

A polar vortex has decended and my outdoor time is limited. So sad! But let me tell you about the wonders outside my apartment window.Willow Lake Preserve podcast episodeNational Save the Eagles DayOutdoor Highlights:National Seed Swap Day at Queens Farm MuseumAstronomy: Intro to Stargazing at Fort TottenArt on the Farm Series: Watercolors

Just a few hours east of Queens is Montauk — a beautiful beachside location that is even nice in deep winter!American Littoral Society Northeast Chapter on FacebookOutdoor Highlights:Watercolor Workshop at Queens Botanical GardenOutdoor Highlights: Animal TrackingMLK Day of Service Events:Forest ParkHighland ParkIdewild Park

January 10 is National Save the Eagles Day. Learn more about this iconic species and where to see them!Where to See Bald Eagles in New YorkAll About Birds: Bald EagleNational Save the Eagles DayNJ Meadowlands Eagle FestOutdoor Highlights:Park Pals (Junior Junior Ranges) at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeMulchfest: Astoria Street Tree Care EventMulchfest: Travers Park Street Tree Care EventAdvanced Winter Tree ID

Welcome to 2025! It’s the time of year to set some goals — here are ideas for outdoor ones to make the new year perfect.

Thinking out of the box (and outdoors) for an upcoming wedding? Listen up for some ideas!Queens Botanical GardenQueens Farm MuseumQueens ZooBayside Historical SocietyGantry Plaza State ParkWeddings in NYC ParksOutdoor Highlights:Episode 36 — Outdoor Holiday EventsWildlife Sketch Workshop at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeFar Rockaway PopUp Clean UpWinter Bird Walk Birding For Kids

Holiday evergreens get you confused? Yeah, me too. Let’s figure out our pines from our spruces and our firs and others!NYC Tree MapEvergreen ID articleAnother evergreen ID articleWinter Solstice Evergreen Tree ID HikeOutdoor Highlights:Episode 36 — Outdoor Holiday EventsIt’s My Park at Margaret I. Carman GreenIce Age HikeOutdoors Skills: Firebuilding and Safety

The holiday season is here and there’s loads to do! Let me help you plan your outdoor calendar with some seasonal events coming up this month.Winter Wonder at Queens Botanical GardenWinterfest37th Annual Holly House Tour Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Nature WalkQueens Farm Museum holiday eventsChristmas Bird Count at Highland ParkChristmas Bird Count at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeLektrik light festival at Queens Botanical GardenNature Ornament-making WorkshopWinter Solstice Evergreen Tree ID HikeCampfire Story Time

Forget the big stores and long lines for gift shopping! Kevin Sims from Down to Earth Markets at Cunningham Park is like your own personal shopper full of gift — and entertaining — suggestions from his market. Down to Earth Market at Cunningham ParkOutdoor HighlightsPost-Thanksgiving Hike: The Alley GiantWildlife Viewing: Winter WildlifeJunior Naturalist: Winter Science Sampler

Queens garden advocate Maureen Regan talks about her organization, Green Earth Urban Gardens, and the variety of wonderful programs she offers.Green Earth Urban GardensGreen Earth Urban Gardens Facebook pageGreen Earth Urban Gardens Instagram pageOutdoor HighlightsDoggie Day Hike at Forest ParkWinter Waterfowl Workshop at Jamaica Bay Wildlife RefugeNature Exploration: Captain Tilly ParkBirding: Waterfowl at Baisley Pond ParkAlso…Queens Out of Doors Store

Outdoor highlights for this weekend!Native American Heritage Month: Native Americans EthnobotanyAstronomy: The Beaver MoonBirding: Familiar Backyard Birds

Trees might get all the attention now for their fall color, but did you know that grasses, particularly native ones, are also looking gorgeous now too? Explore with me and special guest, Margaret Fox-Jackson of Fox-Jackson Designs.Great Trees of New York CityNominate a Great Tree of New York CityIt’s In QueensMonthly Picks of It’s In Queens — my article!Outdoor Highlights:Remote Sensing Workshop Series for TeensAutumn Appreciation HikeOutdoor Skills: Knot Tying

NYC is a great place so it’s no wonder there’s a Great Trees of New York City list. Let’s explore the ones in Queens that made the list!Great Trees of New York CityNominate a Great Tree of New York CityIt’s In QueensMonthly Picks of It’s In Queens — my article! Outdoor Highlights:Remote Sensing Workshop Series for TeensAutumn Appreciation HikeOutdoor Skills: Knot Tying