Floyd Bennett Field Seaplane Ramp Kayaking for Beginners

Kayaking for Beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation required. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instruction will be provided.

Floyd Bennett Field Seaplane Ramp

20th Annual Shorebird Festival

Join Gateway National Recreation Area and our park partners American Littoral Society, NYC Bird Alliance, NYC Plover Project, and Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for the 20th Annual Shorebird Festival—a free, fun-filled event for birders of all levels and familie......More

Join Gateway National Recreation Area and our park partners American Littoral Society, NYC Bird Alliance, NYC Plover Project, and Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for the 20th Annual Shorebird Festival—a free, fun-filled event for birders of all levels and families of all ages.What to Expect:Bird walks with expert guidesEngaging talks on shorebird behavior and conservationKid-friendly activitiesStunning views of marshes, ponds, and meadows alive with wildlife Schedule to be posted closer to the festival date. Stay tuned! Registration link (not required to attend): Jamaica Bay Shorebird Festival 2025 - American Littoral Society

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Fort Tompkins Tour

Join us for a tour around Fort Tompkins as we explore the fort and surrounding areas. Inclement weather will cancel this program. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring water. Call 718-354-4500 to make a reservation.

Fort Wadsworth Visitor Center

Nike Missile Radar Site Tour

Tour the Nike Integrated Fire Control Area and see where nuclear armed missiles werecontrolled during the Cold War defense of the New York. While taking a tour of this site, youwill have a chance to talk with veterans whoworked the Nike Air Defense System.No reservation......More

Tour the Nike Integrated Fire Control Area and see where nuclear armed missiles werecontrolled during the Cold War defense of the New York. While taking a tour of this site, youwill have a chance to talk with veterans whoworked the Nike Air Defense System.No reservation is needed.

Parking Lot L- Horseshoe Cove, Sandy Hook

Sandy Hook Lighthouse Tours

Tours are first-come, first-served. Children must be 48 inches tall to climb the tower. Lighthouse tour sign-ups start at 12:30 PM in the 1883 Keeper’s Quarters. Each tour lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse

Sandy Hook History House

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answe......More

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answer questions. Free!

Building 1, Sandy Hook Unit

Hangar B Open House

Explore restored aircrafts and learn about Floyd Bennett Field’s aviation history every Sunday! The hangar is open from 1 - 4 pm. A park ranger will lead a guided tour from 2 - 3 pm.

Hangar B, Floyd Bennett Field

Fort Hancock Museum

From the Revolutionary War to the Cold War, Sandy Hook boasts a rich military history. Stop in and learn about Sandy Hook’s history from cannons to missiles. Explore Artist in Residence Collette Kennedy’s work, which embraces the sunset hues of Fort Hancock.

Battery Weed Open House

Have you always wondered what was inside of Battery Weed, but have not been able to join in on a tour? Park Rangers will open up Battery Weed to explore at your own pace on Saturday and Sunday afternoons in July. Stop by and learn about this wonder under the Verrazzano ......More

Have you always wondered what was inside of Battery Weed, but have not been able to join in on a tour? Park Rangers will open up Battery Weed to explore at your own pace on Saturday and Sunday afternoons in July. Stop by and learn about this wonder under the Verrazzano Bridge. 

Battery Weed, Staten Island, NY

Birding for Beginners

Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird ident......More

Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird identification and appreciation. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended, binoculars available. 

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Sunday Evening Reset at Horseshoe Cove

Leave your troubles behind and destress before your week starts. We will take a quiet walk, then do a relaxing art project on the bay. Bring a chair. Ages 13 and up.Make your reservation on Eventbrite. Gateway National Recreation Area Events - 15 Upcoming Activities and......More

Leave your troubles behind and destress before your week starts. We will take a quiet walk, then do a relaxing art project on the bay. Bring a chair. Ages 13 and up.Make your reservation on Eventbrite. Gateway National Recreation Area Events - 15 Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite

Horseshoe Cove Parking Lot H

Fishing Clinic Great Kills Park

Learn about local marine life, ethics of fishing and how to fish in saltwater! Children will receive a Jr. Angler Ranger booklet and learn about fish species and regulations. Fishing poles can be borrowed to practice drop casting skills and catch and release. Bring a ha......More

Learn about local marine life, ethics of fishing and how to fish in saltwater! Children will receive a Jr. Angler Ranger booklet and learn about fish species and regulations. Fishing poles can be borrowed to practice drop casting skills and catch and release. Bring a hat, sunglasses, snack and water! Park in Lot E, South of the boat trailer lot next to boat ramp (Do not park in the boat ramp lot- this is a permit only area, for boats with trailers.) Inclement weather will cancel this program. Call for reservations and details, 718 354-4500. 

Great Kills Park, Lot E

Gather & Stitch- Series Fort Wadsworth

Opportunity for Quilters of all skill levels to sew socially, learn new skills or get advice on projects you are currently working on. Quilting and sewing have many health benefits including stress reduction, the repetitive motions of quilting, like meditation, can help......More

Opportunity for Quilters of all skill levels to sew socially, learn new skills or get advice on projects you are currently working on. Quilting and sewing have many health benefits including stress reduction, the repetitive motions of quilting, like meditation, can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Quilting allows for self-expression which can be therapeutic as well as challenging the brain by following patterns, color selection and problem solving all of which can improve cognitive functioning. Quilting and sewing with others fosters social interaction and reduces feelings of loneliness. Most of all it is just fun to meet with other people, share ideas and be creative together. For questions, call 718 354-4500 

Fort Wadsworth Visitor Center

Sandy Hook Lighthouse Tours

Tours are first-come, first-served. Children must be 48 inches tall to climb the tower. Lighthouse tour sign-ups start at 12:30 PM in the 1883 Keeper’s Quarters. Each tour lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse

Sandy Hook History House

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answe......More

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answer questions. Free!

Building 1, Sandy Hook Unit

Junior Ranger Angler at Sandy Hook

The National Park Service and the American Littoral Society are partnering to teach young children surf fishing on Sandy Hook. As part of the program, we will cover the basics of casting, knot tying, lure/bait selection, and “reading” a beach.All skill levels are welcom......More

The National Park Service and the American Littoral Society are partnering to teach young children surf fishing on Sandy Hook. As part of the program, we will cover the basics of casting, knot tying, lure/bait selection, and “reading” a beach.All skill levels are welcome. Rods, reels, and tackle will be provided. Children 10-16 are welcome with a supervising adult. Parents must have a copy of their NJ Saltwater Registry License. Please bring your lunch and snacks. 

Building 18, Sandy Hook

Sandy Hook Cleanup

Join a park ranger for a rewarding experience by lending a hand at a park clean-up! Find all details and required registration on Volunteer.gov, search “Sandy Hook.”

Beach C Bayside

Island Channel Paddle

Paddle past unique natural and cultural landscapes on this intermediate paddle from Floyd Bennett Field's Seaplane Ramp. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instru......More

Paddle past unique natural and cultural landscapes on this intermediate paddle from Floyd Bennett Field's Seaplane Ramp. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instruction will be provided. Call (347) 672-3210 or email [email protected] for more information, and to make a reservation. (3 miles)

Floyd Bennett Field Seaplane Ramp

Old Orchard Shoal Lighthouse Excursion

Ever heard of a sparkplug lighthouse? Have a four-mile round trip excursion into the Lower Harbor from Great Kills Park and find out. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddl......More

Ever heard of a sparkplug lighthouse? Have a four-mile round trip excursion into the Lower Harbor from Great Kills Park and find out. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instruction will be provided. Call (347) 672-3210 or email [email protected] for more information, and to make a reservation. (4 miles) 

Great Kills Park Beach Center

Rockaway Cove Paddle

This trip follows the scenic bay shore of Rockaway peninsula along the cove toward Rockaway Point.  Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instruction will be provide......More

This trip follows the scenic bay shore of Rockaway peninsula along the cove toward Rockaway Point.  Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instruction will be provided. Call (347) 672-3210 or email [email protected] for more information, and to make a reservation. (2 miles)

Riis Landing

Sandy Hook Lighthouse Tours

Tours are first-come, first-served. Children must be 48 inches tall to climb the tower. Lighthouse tour sign-ups start at 12:30 PM in the 1883 Keeper’s Quarters. Each tour lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse

Sandy Hook History House

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answe......More

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answer questions. Free!

Building 1, Sandy Hook Unit

Jamaica Bay Book Club

Come join us for our book club! We will be reading selections of nature-themed literature, and together think critically about nature literature and our place in the natural world. This will be an outlet for open and respectful discussion, and a space to jointly enjoy t......More

Come join us for our book club! We will be reading selections of nature-themed literature, and together think critically about nature literature and our place in the natural world. This will be an outlet for open and respectful discussion, and a space to jointly enjoy the works that we will be reading! Please bring your thoughts and questions. Please email [email protected] or call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge at 718-318-4340 in advance if interested in attending. 

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center

Historic Fort Hancock Walking Tour

Walk the grounds of a National Historical Landmark on a ranger-led tour to learn about Sandy Hook’s importance to national & coastal defense.

Building 18, Sandy Hook

Yoga on the Beach at Sandy Hook

Join instructor Tony Costa every Saturday morning for yoga to start your weekend off right! Yoga will take place on the beach just over the dunes in front of the Spermaceti Cove Lifesaving Station.

Beach in front of Spermaceti Cove Lifesaving Station

Floyd Bennett Field Seaplane Ramp Kayaking for Beginners

Kayaking for Beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation required. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instruction will be provided.

Floyd Bennett Field Seaplane Ramp

Fort Tompkins Tour

Join us for a tour around Fort Tompkins as we explore the fort and surrounding areas. Inclement weather will cancel this program. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring water. Call 718-354-4500 to make a reservation.

Fort Wadsworth Visitor Center

Restoring Battery Gunnison/New Battery Peck

The Army Ground Forces Association is a volunteer membership Park Philanthropic Partner in WWII-era uniform performing restoration projects.

Battery Gunnison, Sandy Hook

Canarsie Pier Kayaking for Beginners

Kayaking for Beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation required. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instruction will be provided.......More

Kayaking for Beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation required. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instruction will be provided. 

Canarsie Pier

Sandy Hook Lighthouse Tours

Tours are first-come, first-served. Children must be 48 inches tall to climb the tower. Lighthouse tour sign-ups start at 12:30 PM in the 1883 Keeper’s Quarters. Each tour lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse

Sandy Hook History House

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answe......More

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answer questions. Free!

Building 1, Sandy Hook Unit

Fort Hancock Museum

From the Revolutionary War to the Cold War, Sandy Hook boasts a rich military history. Stop in and learn about Sandy Hook’s history from cannons to missiles. Explore Artist in Residence Collette Kennedy’s work, which embraces the sunset hues of Fort Hancock.

Battery Weed Open House

Have you always wondered what was inside of Battery Weed, but have not been able to join in on a tour? Park Rangers will open up Battery Weed to explore at your own pace on Saturday and Sunday afternoons in July. Stop by and learn about this wonder under the Verrazzano ......More

Have you always wondered what was inside of Battery Weed, but have not been able to join in on a tour? Park Rangers will open up Battery Weed to explore at your own pace on Saturday and Sunday afternoons in July. Stop by and learn about this wonder under the Verrazzano Bridge. 

Battery Weed, Staten Island, NY

Floyd Bennett Field Seaplane Ramp Kayaking for Beginners

Kayaking for Beginners. Open to the public, ages 6 and up with an adult. No reservation required. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles and instruction will be provided.

Floyd Bennett Field Seaplane Ramp

Bike Skills 101: Learn to Ride – Kids

Bike New York's free group class is for children who are ready to ditch the training wheels and ride a two-wheeler for the first time. With our safe, easy, effective method taught by experienced instructors, kids will learn how to balance, pedal, start, stop, and steer ......More

Bike New York's free group class is for children who are ready to ditch the training wheels and ride a two-wheeler for the first time. With our safe, easy, effective method taught by experienced instructors, kids will learn how to balance, pedal, start, stop, and steer a bicycle. Please note: Registration for this class should be under the student's name, not that of parent or guardian. We can provide bikes and helmets for kids ages 10 and up. For kids ages 9 and under, you must bring your child's own bike and helmet. To sign up and get more information email [email protected] 

Hudson Road Parking Lot

Fort Tompkins Tour

Join us for a tour around Fort Tompkins as we explore the fort and surrounding areas. Inclement weather will cancel this program. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring water. Call 718-354-4500 to make a reservation.

Fort Wadsworth Visitor Center

Bike Skills 101: Learn to Ride – Adults

Bike Skills 101: Learn to Ride—Adults is a free class for adults and mature teens who are ready to ride. Whether you are 18 or 80, we’ll get you rolling in no time. With our safe, easy, effective method, Learn to Ride students learn how to balance, pedal, start, stop, a......More

Bike Skills 101: Learn to Ride—Adults is a free class for adults and mature teens who are ready to ride. Whether you are 18 or 80, we’ll get you rolling in no time. With our safe, easy, effective method, Learn to Ride students learn how to balance, pedal, start, stop, and steer a bike, as well as adjust a helmet for proper fit. Please note: Students under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Registration for this class should be under the student's name, not that of parent or guardian. Loaner bikes and helmets will be provided. To sign up and get more information email [email protected] 

Hudson Road Parking Lot, Fort Wadsworth

Sandy Hook Lighthouse Tours

Tours are first-come, first-served. Children must be 48 inches tall to climb the tower. Lighthouse tour sign-ups start at 12:30 PM in the 1883 Keeper’s Quarters. Each tour lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse

Sandy Hook History House

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answe......More

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answer questions. Free!

Building 1, Sandy Hook Unit

Hangar B Open House

Explore restored aircrafts and learn about Floyd Bennett Field’s aviation history every Sunday! The hangar is open from 1 - 4 pm. A park ranger will lead a guided tour from 2 - 3 pm.

Hangar B, Floyd Bennett Field

Fort Hancock Museum

From the Revolutionary War to the Cold War, Sandy Hook boasts a rich military history. Stop in and learn about Sandy Hook’s history from cannons to missiles. Explore Artist in Residence Collette Kennedy’s work, which embraces the sunset hues of Fort Hancock.

Battery Weed Open House

Have you always wondered what was inside of Battery Weed, but have not been able to join in on a tour? Park Rangers will open up Battery Weed to explore at your own pace on Saturday and Sunday afternoons in July. Stop by and learn about this wonder under the Verrazzano ......More

Have you always wondered what was inside of Battery Weed, but have not been able to join in on a tour? Park Rangers will open up Battery Weed to explore at your own pace on Saturday and Sunday afternoons in July. Stop by and learn about this wonder under the Verrazzano Bridge. 

Battery Weed, Staten Island, NY

Birding for Beginners

Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird ident......More

Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird identification and appreciation. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended, binoculars available. 

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Birds and Plants of Sandy Hook

Join a park ranger to look for plants, birds, butterflies, and more.Please use Eventbrite to make a reservation.

Parking Lot K, Sandy Hook

Staten Island Philharmonic Concert

Come to Fort Wadsworth to listen to the Staten Island Philharmonic play patriotic tunes in celebration of the National Park Services 109th birthday. Bring your own chairs and refreshments. For details call 718 354-4500. 

Fort Wadsworth Overlook

Gather & Stitch- Series Fort Wadsworth

Opportunity for Quilters of all skill levels to sew socially, learn new skills or get advice on projects you are currently working on. Quilting and sewing have many health benefits including stress reduction, the repetitive motions of quilting, like meditation, can help......More

Opportunity for Quilters of all skill levels to sew socially, learn new skills or get advice on projects you are currently working on. Quilting and sewing have many health benefits including stress reduction, the repetitive motions of quilting, like meditation, can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Quilting allows for self-expression which can be therapeutic as well as challenging the brain by following patterns, color selection and problem solving all of which can improve cognitive functioning. Quilting and sewing with others fosters social interaction and reduces feelings of loneliness. Most of all it is just fun to meet with other people, share ideas and be creative together. For questions, call 718 354-4500 

Fort Wadsworth Visitor Center

Sandy Hook Lighthouse Tours

Tours are first-come, first-served. Children must be 48 inches tall to climb the tower. Lighthouse tour sign-ups start at 12:30 PM in the 1883 Keeper’s Quarters. Each tour lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse

Sandy Hook History House

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answe......More

Visit an 1898 lieutenant’s quarters on “Officers Row” overlooking Sandy Hook Bay that is furnished to the WWII era the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Park rangers are available to chat and answer questions. Free!

Building 1, Sandy Hook Unit

Sandy Hook Sketchbook Series

This ranger-led art program invites adults to explore the park through art. Bring a sketchbook & drawing supplies.

Sandy Hook Visitor Center/Lighthouse

National Park Trivia - Birthday Bash at Sandy Hook

Celebrate the National Park Service’s 109th birthday with a fun Trivia Night! Put your knowledge of national parks to the test with a chance to earn fun prizes.Please use Eventbrite to make a reservation

Spermaceti Life Saving Station - Sandy Hook

Junior Junior Ranger at Sandy Hook: Backyard Birds

Learn about backyard birds by going for a little walk, reading a story and making a craft all about birds. Ages 3-6, with an adult.

Guardian Park, Sandy Hook