Alley Pond Environmental Center

Some 635 acres in eastern Queens are made up of woodlands, open meadows and expansive marshes that are home to 300 species of birds—mostly migratory fowl—and other wildlife.

The environmental center, at the north end of the park, is especially strong in children's programming, though there are numerous adult activities as well.

Family-oriented programs include nature hikes and birding, lessons in astronomy and geology, art workshops, cross-country skiing and even a tour of a city water tunnel. This last subterranean excursion is particularly helpful in demonstrating irrefutably that water does not originate in the kitchen tap. There's a small petting zoo with rabbits, snakes, turtles and other creatures, salt and freshwater aquariums, an organic garden and apiary.

Workshops address environmental issues ranging from endangered species to toxic waste. The center has earned a rare designation as a National Environmental Study Area by the National Park Service.