Have you ever wondered how NYC city slickers fulfill the need for outdoor fun and escape the concrete jungle of Manhattan? Well, ask anyone and they’ll likely tell you about a little place called Alley Pond. Located just outside of the City in Douglaston, New York, the Alley Pond Environmental Center is dedicated to providing urban dwellers with an awareness and understanding of natural issues. Designated as a National Environmental Study Area back in 1979, Alley Pond now functions as a valuable educational resource for more than 20,000 students each year. With more than 635 acres of marshes, woodlands and meadows, Alley Pond is an unusual tourist attraction for city residents and customers of AAMCAR New York Car Rentals. Millions of people have taken advantage of this natural playground since its opening day in 1972, so why hold back? Enjoy an afternoon of outdoor excitement during your upcoming AAMCAR New York Car Rentals vacation with a visit to the Alley Pond Environmental Center in Northeast Queens.
Escape the Rat Race and reconnect with Nature
An effort to save what remained of New York City’s natural heritage was begun back in the 1960’s. The Alley Pond Environmental Center was the result of this effort, protecting more than 635 acres of local vegetation and wildlife. A major natural resource for centuries, Alley Pond now functions as a living-learning laboratory for thousands of school children and visiting tourists. Operated in cooperation with the New York City Departments of Parks and Recreation, the Alley Pond Environmental Center proudly infuses NYC’s urban landscape with natural resiliency and life. Escaping the hectic atmosphere of the city is as easy as a visit to Alley Pond, so why not stop by during your upcoming trip? There’s always something fun happening at the Pond, so grab a friend and check it on your upcoming AAMCAR New York Car Rentals vacation.
Biodiversity at its best: Alley Pond Programs
Nature enthusiasts of all ages are encouraged to visit the Alley Pond Environmental Center for a wide variety of seasonal activities. From bird watching to trail hiking, you’re sure to find something fun happening along the Pond. Programs at the center include age-appropriate monthly courses for children 18 months to 10 years old, as well as a handful of special events and presentations. Children can even opt to host their birthday part inside the park, celebrating their special day in a completely natural setting. Other exciting programs include tree planting ceremonies on Arbor Day, summer Family Fun Days and spooky Halloween happenings. The center also features a fun petting zoo, providing customers of AAMCAR New York Car Rentals with an interactive experience for even the youngest of travelers. For more information on upcoming events and available programs please stop in at the newly renovated education center at the parks north end. Ongoing exhibits can be found within this facility along with daily programs and special offerings.
Leave the City and find Natural Bliss
If the city’s got you down, don’t worry – these simple directions will help you find natural balance in no time. The Alley Pond Environmental Center is located just east of the Cross Island Parkway. Take the Midtown tunnel to the Long Island Expressway. Follow the L.I.E. in your AAMCAR New York Car Rentals rent-a-car until you get to the Clearview Expressway exit. Take the Clearview northbound to the Northern Boulevard East exit. Make a right onto Northern Boulevard and go straight for about 3 miles. The Alley Pond Environmental Center will appear just past the Cross Island Expressway on your right.
If you need to reconnect with nature now is the time to contact the Alley Pond Environmental Center. For more details about upcoming events please visit the official Pond website at www.alleypond.com. Customers of AAMCAR New York Car Rentals can also contact the park by phone at 1-718-229-4000. Alley Pond is open year round, but closed on most major holidays. Admission to the center is free.