Catching cherry blossoms in Central Park is one of the highlights of living in New York City. Central Park is pure magic and visiting in the spring feels like a privilege. But since the park is 843 acres large, it’s hard to know exactly where to go for the highest concentration of spring blooms.
Fret not, I have you covered. I visited the best spots for cherry blossoms in Central Park with my trusty camera in hand. Below is all the information you need to know to make your visit as enjoyable as possible.
What’s the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Central Park?
There’s a handful of varieties of blooming trees in Central Park, and since these trees bloom at different times you can easily catch cherry blossoms in Central Park for an entire month starting mid-April through mid-May.
Pro tip. most people rush through here. Take your time. It’s worth it.
One of the most common types of cherry blossoms in Central Park are Yoshino cherry trees. They bloom in early-to-mid April and produce delicate white flowers that give off a very light almond scent. The other variety you’ll find are Kwanzan cherry trees, which bloom in early May and produce heavy clusters of magenta double-petal flowers.
In sum, the best time to see cherry blossoms in Central Park is between mid-April and mid-May.
Worth the drive, worth the wait, worth every penny.
Central Park Cherry Blossom Tour
The Central Park Conservancy offers 1.5-hour expert tours during the spring season. I participated in one of the guided tours last spring and HIGHLY recommend them. You’ll learn so much about the park’s history, the cherry trees and other beautiful spring blooms.
Interested in a tour? Tours are $35 per person and well worthwhile. You can get more information and book a tour through the Central Park Conservancy.
Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Central Park
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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 (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Local tip. Here’s something most visitors don’t know. the best time to visit is right when they open. You’ll beat the crowds and get the full experience.
Cleopatra’s Needle (The Obelisk)
The famous obelisk in Central Park is commonly referred to as Cleopatra’s Needle. Dating back 3,500 years, this the oldest (and tallest) man-made structure in the park. If you’re a history buff, I suggest reading about the history of the Obelisk here.
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. 1870 U.S. census, a Bible, a Webster’s Dictionary, the complete works of William Shakespeare, a guide to Egypt, and a copy of the United States Declaration of Independence.
The magnolia trees encircling Cleopatra’s Needle are truly breathtaking. The trees produce luscious mug-sized magnolias that dress the barren branches with bright colors from early to mid-April. This easily one of the best spots for spring blooms in Central Park.
Location. East 81st Street
You might enjoy reading. 10 Breathtaking Spots for Cherry Blossoms in New York City
Pilgrim Hill
The Pilgrim statue was sculpted by a renowned sculptor named John Quincy Adams Ward and dedicated to New York City in 1884 by the New England Society. You’ll find the statue sits atop a hill that comes alive with spring colorS in early April when the Yoshino cherry trees hit peak bloom. You’ll find the petals litter the ground and transform the landscape completely, making this a great spot to see cherry blossoms in Central Park.
Location.East 73rd Street
The Conservatory Garden
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.
You can get to the Conservatory Garden by walking through Central Park or taking the subway to the nearest stop (103rd stop from the east side and Central Park North stop from the west side). The small effort is worthwhile, the gardens burst with spring color in unparalleled fashion.
In fact, I visit every fall and spring season, regardless of how many times I’ve seen this splendor in the past, it’s irresistible. The colorful tulips take center stage while blushing crab apple trees loom in the background. And don’t even get me started on the prolific magnolia trees!
Location. East Side at 104th and 106th Streets
Cherry Hill
Well, they don’t call it Cherry Hill for nothing, that’s for sure. Every year, like clockwork, the mature Yoshino trees envelop visitors in a blanket of spring blooms! Originally designed as a turn-around for carriages in the 19th century, Cherry Hill now serves as a peaceful retreat and popular spot for photographers.
Overlooking the iconic towers of the San Remo, it offers a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls in the park. The path meanders past blossoming trees before reaching the water and offering a great view of the Bow Bridge. This spot can’t be missed for anyone searching for cherry blossoms in Central park.
Local’s Tip. Arrive early, Cherry Hill is VERY popular so crowds are hard to avoid.
Location. West 72nd Street
Further Reading. 15 Iconic Things to Do in Central Park
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is more commonly known as the Central Park Reservoir (or simply Reservoir). It’s a decommissioned reservoir that spans 10 city blocks. Holding more than one billion gallons of water, this was the largest man-made body of water in the world when it was constructed.
The 1.5-mile loop around the Reservoir is a very popular running and walking track among locals. You’ll notice a lot of folks using the path for exercise, which is why the loop is designed to be used in one direction. Be prepared for crowds any time of year, but especially in the spring when the surrounding trees explode with the highest concentration of cherry blossoms in Central Park.
Location. Between 86th and 96th Streets (east and west sides)
The Shakespeare Garden
When it comes to the best spots to find spring blooms (like tulips!) in Central Park, nothing tops the Shakespeare Garden. Densely planted tulips sit side-by-side with striking daffodils and bursting magnolias, it’s an incredible explosion of color.
Named after William Shakespeare (surprise, surprise), this 4-acre park is inspired by classic English gardens. Also worth mention, the garden’s curator takes great pride in making the garden’s blooms different every year based on a theme.
Location. Between West 79th and 80th Streets
List of Best Places to Find Cherry Blossoms in Central Park (Summary)
In sum, the best spots for cherry blossoms in Central Park are.
- Shakespeare Garden
- Cleopatra’s Needle
- Pilgrim Hill
- Conservatory Garden
- Cherry Hill
- Jackie Onassis Reservoir
Planning Tips
I’ve spent years learning the rhythm of this city, and timing matters more than you’d think. Weekday mornings are the best for exploring without crowds, and late afternoons have the prettiest light for photos. If you’re visiting a popular spot, arrive either right when it opens or about an hour before closing for the most relaxed experience.
What Most People Miss
Here’s what most people don’t know. some of the best experiences in NYC happen just one block off the main tourist paths. I always tell friends visiting for the first time to pick a neighborhood and just wander. Get off the subway a stop early and walk. That’s how you find the tiny bakery with the incredible croissants, or the pocket park with the stunning mural.
Another thing most visitors overlook. talking to locals. New Yorkers have a reputation for being rude, but honestly, most of us love sharing recommendations. If you see someone who looks like they know the neighborhood, ask them where they’d eat. You’ll get better advice than any guidebook.
Trust me when I say. the views from the free spots are often better than the paid ones. The Staten Island Ferry gives you incredible Statue of Liberty views for free. The High Line at sunset is magical. And the rooftop bar at Westlight in Williamsburg has a panorama that rivals the Empire State Building observation deck.
Map of Spring Blooms in Central Park
Based on our extensive local experience, we cover the top picks for spots to see cherry blossoms in Central Park in this guide. Each spot has been personally visited and reviewed.
Every recommendation in this guide comes from personal visits as a local New Yorker. We prioritize quality, atmosphere, and value when selecting my top picks.
Helpful Related Articles
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Things to Do NYC Spring. 30+ Spectacular Things to Do in New York City in Spring
Things to Do NYC in April. 20 Amazing Things to Do in New York City in April (2023)
Where to See NYC Tulips. 10 Outstanding Spots to Find Tulips in New York City
Central Park Cherry Blossoms. 5 Stunning Spots to Catch Spring Blooms in Central Park
Hungry while exploring? Check out our guide to the best food in SoHo for local dining picks.
Planning a visit soon? Tell me in the comments what you’re most excited to try. I might have a few extra tips for you.
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If you liked this guide, you might also enjoy exploring my other local recommendations.
The cherry blossoms are so beautiful that they make the perfect backdrop for photos.
I totally agree!