Is there any place more magical in New York City than Central Park? For me, that’s an easy no. I currently live two blocks from the park and start most mornings with a stroll, it’s one of the biggest perks of living in NYC! So today, I’d like to do a quick roundup of my favorite things to do in Central Park.
The Best Things to Do in Central Park
(Table of Contents)
Iconic Central Park Spots (Table of Contents)
- The Best Things to Do in Central Park
- 1. Take in the Splendor of Bethesda Fountain & Terrace
- 2. Cross the Bow Bridge
- 3. Walk the Mall (Famous Promenade)
- 4. Picnic at Sheep Meadow
- 5. Enjoy the Panoramic Views at Belvedere Castle
- 6. Admire the Skyline from Umpire Rock
- 7. Visit Strawberry Fields
- 8. Walk the Reservoir
- 9. Rent a Boat at the Lake
- 10. Get Lost in the Ramble
- Extra Time? More Great Things to Do in Central Park
- 11. Visit the Central Park Zoo
- 12. Stroll the Conservatory Garden
- 13. Go Ice Skating at Wollman Rink
- 14. Find Peace in the North Meadow
- 15. Cross the Gapstow Bridge
- 16. Learn about Cleopatra’s Needle
- 17. Watch the Sailboats at Conservatory Water
- 18. Visit the Shakespeare Garden
- 19. Bike the Park Drive loop
- 20. Enjoy a Meal at Tavern on the Green
- How Big is Central Park?
- Tips for Visiting Central Park for the First Time
- Video: Must-Do Central Park Activities
- Best Things to See in Central Park (Summary)
- Visiting Central Park FAQ
- What to See in Central Park (Helpful Map)
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Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (10 Best Neighborhoods +3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
1. Take in the Splendor of Bethesda Fountain & Terrace
Location: Mid-Park at 72nd Street
Bethesda Fountain is one of the most beautiful places in Central Park. The Terrace is actually the park’s only formal architectural design. Lined with 16,000 ceiling tiles, the terrace’s arcade creates an ideal acoustic environment for the city’s talented street musicians. A popular attraction, the area is always full of people, which only makes the experience better because it’s so lively!
2. Cross the Bow Bridge
Location: 72nd Street
Central Park is home to more than 40 bridges, but the most popular by far is the romantic Bow Bridge. Built in 1862, the bridge is so named because it resembles an archer’s bow.
It’s one of the most photographed attractions in Central Park, so it’s almost impossible to pass through without bumping into an engagement, maternity or wedding photo shoot. In fact, I once counted three brides on the bridge at the same time. Hard to blame them, this is one of the most picturesque spots in Central Park.
Did you know? The Bow Bridge is the second-oldest cast-iron bridge in the country. Here’s 20 Fascinating Facts About New York City Everyone Should Know.
3. Walk the Mall (Famous Promenade)
Location: 66th to 72nd Street
The Mall is a wide promenade lined with mature American elm trees leading directly to Bethesda Fountain. Home to the largest plantation of American elms in the world, the trees create an enchanting canopy and offer a shady retreat in the summer and dazzling display of color come fall.
Thankfully, there’s plenty of seating in the area. I suggest parking yourself on a bench because the people-watching is prime. Once rested, stroll the promenade at a leisurely pace while taking in the sights. Make sure to check out the Literary Walk at the southern end of the mall where you’ll find statues of notable literary figures.
Fun Fact: The Mall was originally designed to accommodate wealthy New Yorkers who would come to this portion of park in their carriages (that’s why the promenade is so wide). These posh locals would get dropped off at the start of the Mall so they could mingle with people of “lesser status” while making their way to Bethesda Terrace where their carriages awaited.
Further Reading: 12+ Epic Spots to Find Fall Color in Central Park
4. Picnic at Sheep Meadow
Location: West Side between 66th and 69th
Having a picnic in Sheep Meadow is one of the most popular things to do in Central Park. In fact, during the summer months this 15-acre green space swells with locals and tourists alike to the tune of 30,000 people.
Tucked under the shadow of NYC’s iconic skyline, there’s plenty of areas to stretch out. From the shade of mature oak trees to wide open patches perfect for sunbathing. But if action is more your speed, the entire meadow is at your feet, bring a frisbee or run wild with the kids!
5. Enjoy the Panoramic Views at Belvedere Castle
Location: Mid-Park at 79th
Completed in 1872, Belvedere Castle sits atop a large rock outcropping known as Vista Rock (the second-highest point in the park). Renovated in 2019, the castle gets its name from the Italian word for “beautiful view.” Aptly named, the terrace offers unparalleled views of the park, which is why I consider Belvedere Castle a must-see in Central Park.
6. Admire the Skyline from Umpire Rock
Found in the southwest corner of the park, Umpire Rock sits atop Central Park’s first playground. Keeping up with the times, the rock now overlooks one of the most popular playgrounds in Central Park, Heckscher Playground and provides jaw-dropping views of the city skyline.
A prime destination for climbing, picnicking, photos and exploring, enjoying the views from Umpire Rock is one of the most iconic things to do in Central Park.
7. Visit Strawberry Fields
Location: Near entrance at West 72nd Street
Strawberry Fields is a memorial built in honor of John Lennon (who lived across the street at the Dakota building). The area is constantly serenaded by street musicians playing famous Beatles’ songs, but the biggest draw is the Imagine Mosaic which is often adorned with flowers and eager tourists.
This mosaic was designed by Lennon’s widow, Yoko Ono, and gifted to New York by the city of Naples (Italy). The well-received gift speaks to Lennon’s legacy and his impact on the world. Although Strawberry Fields was intended for peaceful reflection, it became one of the top attractions in Central Park so crowds are all but guaranteed.
8. Walk the Reservoir
Location: Between 86th and 96th Streets
The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is a massive decommissioned reservoir that covers 10 city blocks and holds more than one billion gallons of water. In fact, when it was constructed in 1862, it was the largest man-made body of water in the world.
The 1.5-mile loop around the Reservoir is a popular running and walking path for locals. Constantly trafficked, the loop is intended to be used in one direction to keep traffic flowing smoothly. Be prepared for crowds any time of year, but especially in the spring when the surrounding trees explode with vibrant colors and fragrant blooms.
Further Reading: Where to Find Cherry Blossoms in New York City
9. Rent a Boat at the Lake
Location: 72nd Street
Those looking for romantic things to do in Central Park should make a beeline for the Loeb Boathouse. Rent a rowboat and spend an afternoon with your special someone while admiring the dramatic New York City skyline. I mean, does it get any better than this? I don’t think so.
The Loeb Boathouse rents boats on a walk-up basis (first come, first served). At $25 per hour (credit card or Apple Pay only), this Central Park attraction is actually reasonably priced. Interested? Read more here.
You also have the option to rent a guided Gondola, if you’d prefer not to break a sweat. Tours are $50 per half hour and need to be reserved in advance.
10. Get Lost in the Ramble
Location: Between 73rd and 79th
In an effort to provide respite from city living, the Ramble was designed to feel like an authentic Adirondacks forest from upstate New York. The 36-acre woodland is full of meandering paths, rustic bridges, rock formations, peaceful streams and plenty of shady seating areas. The best way to explore the Ramble is to get lost in its thick canopy of fragrances and birdsong.
Local’s Tip: The Ramble is the best spot in Central Park for birding, especially during migrating season (spring and fall) when more than 210 species of birds can be seen in the area.
Extra Time? More Great Things to Do in Central Park
11. Visit the Central Park Zoo
The Central Park Zoo was chartered in 1864, making it the oldest zoo in the country. It originally opened as a menagerie of exotic animals informally “gifted” to the park. Fast forward to today and the zoo is now home to animals from three major ecosystems: the Tropic Zone, Temperate Territory, and the Polar Circle.
Open year-round, you’ll get a chance to see grizzly bears, snow leopards, tropical birds and the rare red panda. Visiting the zoo is one of the best things to do in Central Park because it has a way of bringing out the inner child in all of us.
You Might Enjoy Reading: Visiting the Central Park Zoo (15 Best Things to See)
12. Stroll the Conservatory Garden
Location: East Side between 104th and 106th
Opened in 1937, the Conservatory Garden is the only formal garden in Central Park. Spanning six acres, the garden is sectioned off into three beautiful areas: French North Garden, Italian Center Garden and English South Garden.
Located in the lesser-trafficked north end of the park, the Conservatory Garden doesn’t get as many visitors and offers some semblance of reprieve. Better still, the gardens burst with spectacular fall color and spring blooms.
Getting to the gardens: You can get to the Conservatory Garden by walking through Central Park or taking the subway to the nearest stop: Central Park North.
Visiting Central Park in Spring: Here’s 5 Breathtaking Areas for Spring Blooms in Central Park.
13. Go Ice Skating at Wollman Rink
Found in the southern part of Central Park, the city skyline serves as a breathtaking backdrop to one of the most famous ice rinks in the city. The rink is open from late October through early March, so there’s plenty of time to partake in this iconic New York City Christmas activity.
My suggestion is to visit in early November so you can enjoy ice skating in Central Park surrounded by beautiful fall foliage. Try to visit during the week and arrive early to avoid mind-boggling crowds!
14. Find Peace in the North Meadow
Similar to the Conservatory Garden, the 23-acre North Meadow is often overlooked because it’s located in the north end of the park. What a pity that is, especially considering it’s one of the most relaxing spots in Central Park.
You’ll find rocky outcroppings peppered between sugar maples, dogwoods and hickory trees bordering a pristine meadow pronounced by a hilly landscape. This is where locals go to escape the congestion and crowds of the more popular Sheep Meadow area.
It’s a great place to let kids run around or simply to people watch. There’s also a great dog run in the area that’s perfect for letting fido burn some energy.
15. Cross the Gapstow Bridge
Overlooking the Plaza Hotel, the view from the Gapstow Bridge is beautiful, especially when the area is engrossed in fall color. You’ll see an impressive array of mature oaks, tupelos, birches and cherry trees from this vantage. Take in the splendor by soaking in the views of the Pond and resident geese.
16. Learn about Cleopatra’s Needle
Dating back 3,5000 years, the Obelisk (known as Cleopatra’s Needle) is the tallest and oldest man-made structure in the park. It’s located near Belvedere Castle, so you can easily see both of attractions in one fell swoop. In my opinion, this is one of the most underrated things to see in Central Park.
Here’s the (super-quick) quick history recap:
- Around 1450 B.C. Pharaoh Thutmosis III commissioned the construction of two obelisks to celebrate his 30th year of reign.
- In 1881, Egypt gifted one of the obelisks to Central Park and the other to London (it stands on the bank of the Thames River).
- Before the obelisk was erected in Central Park in 1881, a time capsule was buried underneath.
- The time capsule contains: a bible, the 1870 U.S. census, copy of Webster’s Dictionary, the complete works of William Shakespeare, a guide to Egypt and a copy of the United States Declaration of Independence.
Also worth noting, in 2011 the Egyptian government threatened to revoke the obelisk due to neglect, but the Central Park Conservancy was able to raise money and restore it properly.
17. Watch the Sailboats at Conservatory Water
Conservatory Water is more commonly referred to as the Model Boat Pond because of the model boats launched here. Full of mini sailboats whizzing past, if you’d like to take one for a spin, pop by the Kerbs Boathouse for a rental. The area is home to an abundance of benches, so park yourself for a while and take it all in.
18. Visit the Shakespeare Garden
I’m reluctant to mention the Shakespeare Garden because I want to keep it a secret. But alas, I’d be doing you a disservice by keeping it to myself! Named after William Shakespeare, the four acre park is inspired by classic English cottage gardens. The garden’s curator takes pride in planting different blooms every year, to keep things exciting for locals.
19. Bike the Park Drive loop
Central Park’s Park Drive Loop is always buzzing with activity – bikers whizzing past runners, whizzing past walkers. Survival of the fittest! You can easily rent a city bike (they’re available right outside the park) and take the wheels for a scenic spin.
The entire one-way loop is 6 miles long, but you can cut the distance down by using the various bike paths that run east to west. Take note: Bikes are NOT allowed on walking paths and pedestrians always have the right of way.
20. Enjoy a Meal at Tavern on the Green
One of two restaurants within the park, Tavern on the Green originally served as a sheep fold before being transformed into a restaurant in 1934. Despite its touristy reputation, the restaurant dishes out great food using locally sourced ingredients.
The stunning interior has come a long way from storing sheep. Tavern on the Green is particularly enchanting during the holidays when it gets decked out head to toe with cheerful decor. Enjoying a meal here is a great addition for anyone looking for iconic Central Park activities.
How Big is Central Park?
Central Park is 2.5 miles long and half a mile wide. Technically, you can walk the length of the park at a leisurely pace in about two hours (assuming you don’t make any stops). But I wouldn’t suggest going that route, soak in the views slowly and pop off at all the iconic spots! Visiting Central Park is an iconic experience you can’t afford to miss.
Tips for Visiting Central Park for the First Time
- Dog off–leash hours: Central Park has designated off-leash hours from 6am-9am and 9pm to close every day of the week. During these hours, dogs are free to roam off leash throughout the entire park. If you love dogs, this is a great time to visit the park, it never ceases to amaze me how many New Yorkers have dogs.
- Best time to visit Central Park: I can give you a winsome answer like “anytime is magical” but I’d be lying. The best time to visit Central park is during the fall and spring season.
- Central Park is home to a plethora of trees that truly come alive with vibrant hues during these two seasons. What’s more, the temperatures are mild which makes exploring the extensive park a more relaxing experience. And yes, all seasons have their beauty, but fall and spring are by far the most enjoyable in the park. 😉
- Wear sunscreen: You know I’m a stickler for sunscreen! Here’s the only sunscreen I recommend. I’ve been using it exclusively for the past 8+ years and can’t recommend it enough.
- Pick up a map: You’ll see a handful of helpful little stands throughout Central Park that are staffed with kind and knowledgeable folks eager to help you make the most of your visit to Central Park. Ask for a map before embarking on your day, it will greatly help you understand the size of the park.
- Restaurants in Central Park: In terms of food options, I’d say Central Park is quite limited. There’s the Loab Boathouse, Le Pain Quotidien (bakery), Tavern on the Green and Dancing Crane Cafe but these places are on the pricier side. Here’s a list of the best restaurants near Central Park.
Video: Must-Do Central Park Activities
I made this quick video of the best things to do in Central Park including all the activities on this list in case you want a more in-depth view. Enjoy!
Best Things to See in Central Park (Summary)
In sum, these are the best spots in Central Park:
- Bethesda Terrace
- The Bow Bridge
- The Mall
- Belvedere Castle
- Strawberry Fields
- The Reservoir
- The Lake
- The Ramble
- Conservatory Garden
- Wollman Rink
- Sheep Meadow
- Bike the Park Drive Loop
- North Meadow
- Gapstow Bridge
- Conservatory Water
- Visit the Shakespeare Garden
Visiting Central Park FAQ
(Click for a quick FAQ)
The best way to see Central Park is to walk around. But because the park is so large (with tons of meandering paths) it’s best to pick up a free map from the staffed booths throughout the park. Use this helpful guide to pick out some must-see spots and make a game plan!
I’d say 2 hours max. I mean, you can easily spend half the day in the park, but if you’re looking to see the most iconic spots (mentioned on this list), you can easily do that within 2-3 hours (2 hours minimum, 3 hours at a leisurely pace).
The best part of Central Park is the southern end, specifically the area on the Upper East Side. I suggest starting your tour there and working your way toward the Upper West Side (end at John Lennon’s Memorial, Strawberry Fields).
Related Articles:
- 10 Picture-Perfect Photo Spots in Central Park (You’ll Adore)
- 12 Great Spots to See Fall Foliage in Central Park
- The 20 Best Restaurants Near Central Park (A Local’s Favorites)
- 5 Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Central Park (Local’s Guide)
- 15 Fascinating Facts About Central Park That May Surprise You
- 20 Epic Spots to Grab Brunch Near Central Park (For ALL Budgets)
What to See in Central Park (Helpful Map)
And there you have it – a quick roundup of the best things to do in Central Park. I hope you enjoyed the post!
Cheers!
Well done post and yes, spring and fall are the best times to come to the park. As a year round birder I have the opportunity to go with my group in the hot summer months to find myriads of insects and other bugs doing interesting things as well as strapping on the crampons and walking the ice sheets in deepest winter to find birds as well as an austere beauty of the leafless hardwood trees. Then, the cold has a personality and the quiet is deafening. Few others venture into the cold silence of an icy winter, but it gives a kind of peace you can’t get any other way.
Hi Charles, my husband is a birder as well. Like you, we enjoy the quiet winter months in the city. Central Park is very special during the slow and gray January-March months and the birding really is top notch!
@Charles McAlexander, I went birding in Central Park last spring, I was so surprised by the birds I saw! I agree, the winter season bring with it a peace that is hard to describe, what a magical city.
Hi there,
Great post. I haven’t been in like 10 years and didn’t bike the first time and don’t recall seeing half these spots. lol. Just wanted to confirm – if we bike, can we see all of the spots you mentioned? You said bikes aren’t allowed on the paths.. I would love to ride around and see them all rather than walking since a lot of the day will be on foot as it is!
Hey Melissa, most of these sites will require you to dismount and walk the bike to check out. You can bike the main road from one point to the next, but once you’re there you will have to walk the bike.
I’m surprised you didn’t mention the Central Park Zoo! Most people do not know that there is a zoo in Central Park. It’s a great zoo with a variety of animals considering it is not large.
@Patricia McConnell,
Hey Patricia, great call! I just visited the zoo this past weekend with a friend’s 5 year old daughter. It was such a blast! I’m planning to add it to the list soon, thanks for your suggestion!
@Patricia McConnell, I love the zoo! I thought it’d be a tourist trap but it wasn’t, highly recommend!
Couldn’t agree more! I recently visited because a friend was in town with her 5-year old daughter. Like you, I assumed it’d be a tourist trap but how wrong I was. It’s a great zoo, highly recommend. 🙂
Great post. New York’s early planners had great foresight creating such an awesome park.
@Roger, I couldn’t agree more!
Yes to everything on this list! I visited NYC from London a few weeks ago and followed your advice to a T. Loved every second of my trip, thank you so much for sharing your experience.
Love,
Jenny from London
Hi Jenny, thank you so much for your kind words. So happy to hear you enjoyed NYC!
I visited the Shakespear Garden on your recommendation — what a beautiful place! Had no idea they had so many pretty tulips during the spring season, thanks for letting me know!
Absolutely! So happy to hear you enjoyed it, it’s one of my favorite spots in Central Park.