Looking for a fun way to incorporate nature into your life in the big city? The Central Park Conservancy will be leading a free Discovery Walk for Families at the Harlem Meer on Sunday, May 12, at 11 am. This fun and interactive walk will introduce children and their caregivers to the trees, animals, and ecosystems of the Park’s beautiful Harlem Meer area. Kids will enjoy hands-on exploration using Discovery Kits — rugged backpacks with binoculars, field guides, and hand lenses.
Located on the east side of Central Park from 106th to 110th Streets, the Harlem Meer is a man-made water body that is especially popular for catch-and-release fishing. (“Meer” is Dutch for lake). This Discovery Walk will kick off at the Dana Discovery Center, a visitor center run by the Conservancy located next to the Meer at 110th Street between Lenox and Fifth Avenues (where families can also borrow fishing poles!). Recipients of Mother’s Day flowers will receive a mailed certificate (instead of an e-Card if that is preferred) if the order is placed by May 3.
A great experience for families, space is limited and registration is required. Programming is designed for families with children ages 5+ only.
Can’t join the Discovery Walk on Mother’s Day? Check out the additional spring dates and locations below.
Upcoming Spring Discovery Walks for Families in Central Park
Discovery Walks for Families: The North Woods
Sundays, April 28 & May 26
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
The North Woods is the largest of Central Park’s woodlands, offering a 40-acre forest retreat in the middle of New York City. Learn about the design of this serene landscape and how the plants and trees contribute to the health of an urban woodland community.
Discovery Walks for Families: Conservatory Garden
Sundays, May 5 & June 2
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Discover the thousands of blooms in Conservatory Garden, the only formal garden in Central Park. Learn about its history and design, investigate the differences between various flowers, and see what it takes to maintain a healthy and beautiful landscape.
Discovery Walks for Families: Harlem Meer (NEW!)
Sundays, May 12 & June 9
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Saturday, May 26
10:00 am – 11:30 am
The rocky landscape surrounding the Harlem Meer has a storied history. Join our guides to learn more about how the area has changed over time, the plants and animals that live there today, and how the Conservancy cares for this complex ecosystem.
Register in advance for all walks at centralparknyc.org/discoverywalks.
