New York Dearest
The guide, $35
A place · Landmark · Central Park · on 2 of my lists

Cleopatra’s Needle.

Worth it, says Antonina. This easily one of the best spots for spring blooms in Central Park.

Antonina Pattiz
Antonina PattizI went myself · from my Best cherry blossom spots in Central Park

Cleopatra’s Needle, in my photographs

6 frames from my visits
  • Pink magnolia blossoms frame a stone obelisk against a bright sky.
    Spring
  • A person stands on a path looking up at Cleopatra's Needle obelisk surrounded by trees in Central Park.
    Summer
  • An obelisk stands on a hill beside a blossoming magnolia tree under a clear blue sky.
    Spring
  • An ancient stone obelisk stands beside a blooming pink magnolia tree in a park.
    Spring

Cleopatra’s Needle by season

Where Cleopatra’s Needle appears on New York Dearest

It's on 2 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.

Worth it
  • AddressEast 81st Street
  • From my guide, updated September 2026.

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.

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.

You might enjoy reading. 10 Breathtaking Spots for Cherry Blossoms in New York City

Read it on the list
Worth it, says Antonina. Been? Say if you agree.
Worth it

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 one of the most underrated things to see in Central Park.

Here’s the (super-quick) quick history recap.

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.

Read it on the list
Cleopatra’s Needle

Nearby, from my lists

Worth it, within a ten-minute walk
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Cleopatra’s Needle

Central Park