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Central Park No place epitomizes the spirit of New York City quite like Central Park, an 843-acre swath of green that stretches from 59th Street to 110th Street, making it a much-needed and much-loved escape for the city's overworked urbanites... New York United States 40.7717519 -73.9731829

4.68 33

Central Park - Culture | Outdoor Activity | Park in New York.

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User Reviews (29)
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Lucas

Adriana

Jonah

Emma

Party Earth Review No place epitomizes the spirit of New York City quite like Central Park, an 843-acre swath of green that stretches from 59th Street to 110th Street, making it a much-needed and much-loved escape for the city’s overworked... ... read full review

Neighborhood:

Upper West Side
Address:

Central Park
New York, NY 10019

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Subway:

1, A, B, C, D: Columbus Circle; B, C: 72nd Street, 81st Street, 86th Street, 96th Street, 103rd Street, 110th Street; N, R, Q: 5th Avenue-59th Street
Phone:

212-310-6600
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Official Website

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Daily 6am–1am
Recommended as:
- Day Spot

First to review Paul F.

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Central Park Schedule of Events

June 2013

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July 2013

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Party Earth Central Park Review

The Scene

No place epitomizes the spirit of New York City quite like Central Park, an 843-acre swath of green that stretches from 59th Street to 110th Street, making it a much-needed and much-loved escape for the city's overworked urbanites...

Upper West Side, New York –

Seven bodies of water and countless sprawling lawns provide a playground for everyone from adventurous young professionals to families, aspiring creative types, and tourists looking to kick back and enjoy some quality leisure time.

Those in the mood for lazy-day sunbathing or napping under trees will find plenty of cozy corners to do so, while more athletic types take to the park’s streets for biking, running, and rollerblading, or flood the baseball diamonds, tennis courts, volleyball courts, and free public pool that doubles as a skating rink in the winter.

The park’s winding forest paths in The Brambles attract hip young couples looking for a romantic stroll, as do the park’s exquisite meandering gardens, the quaint Turtle Pond and its inhabitants, and the whimsical Belvedere Castle, a miniature fortress that will make anyone forget they’re in one of the busiest urban centers in the world.

Visitors hungry for more action can rent rowboats on the lake, take a ride on the legendary carousel, or watch the sea lions laze in the center courtyard of Central Park Zoo.

While tourists tend to take in the park from the comfort of horse-drawn carriages, in-the-know New Yorkers prefer to sip cocktails at the iconic Boathouse restaurant, enjoy Shakespeare in the Park at the open-air Delacorte Theater, or critique the showy chapeaux at the various fundraising events that draw the city’s socialites.

A day spent picnicking and relaxing in Sheep Meadow with a good bottle of wine and great company should be enough to convince any visitor that they’ve found the heart and soul of New York City within Central Park.

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Tip from Emma:

The middle and southern areas of Central Park tend to draw the biggest crowds, but don’t miss the north end. It’s woodsier and more secluded, and contains some great attractions like the Conservatory Garden, the Blockhouse – built in 1814 to defend the city against the British – and, of course, the free public pool.

Crowd

People of all ages, cultures, and professions, along with their dogs.
Entertainment / Music

Summer events include the free Shakespeare in the Park and Summer Stage, a live concert series with a mix of free and ticketed shows.

Sports available year round, including tennis, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and horseback riding, with some recreational programs initiated by the park and other unaffiliated sports leagues.

Attractions and activities include several visitor centers, the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, various themed guided tours, the Central Park Zoo, annual fundraising events, and ubiquitous street performers.

The park is also the staging ground for the conclusion of the annual New York City Marathon.
Food / Miscellaneous

Several concession stands with outdoor seating, including the Ferrara Italian Café at Merchants’ Gate and the Ballplayers’ House. The Loeb Boathouse and Le Pain Quotidien are full-service restaurants.
Prices

Rowboat rentals $30/deposit plus $12/first hour, $3/every additional 15 minutes. Zoo tickets $12/adult. Call or check the website for information on tennis court rentals, ice skating, and event tickets.

What to Wear / Dress Code

Anything goes.
Hot Nights / When to Go

Any beautiful day. Crowded on spring and summer weekends.
Close By

The storied Plaza Hotel at the south east corner of the park is a New York landmark that has been featured in movies like Scent of a Woman, Funny Girl, Almost Famous, and Arthur, as well as literature, The Great Gatsby, and popular TV shows, The Sopranos, Friends, and Sex and the City.

Tags:: All AgesAll TypesAnything goesBicycle RidingBurgersCreativeFreeHot DogsIce SkatingItalian FoodLaid backSandwichesSnack FoodSportsSportySunbathersSwimming PoolTouristsYoung Professionals

Central Park User Reviews

Amanda F. Jun 14, 2013 4.0 stars Central Park -- Something for everyone The fact that New York City is internationally known for Central Park is for good reason. The Park offers something for everyone who treads its many paths. For nature lovers, Central Park serves as a welcome green oasis in the midst of a chaotic metropolis dominated by steel and concrete. For athletically-minded New Yorkers, the Park offers many trails for the purposes of running and biking, without the danger and chaos present in the city streets. The Park’s lush patches of grass provide ample space for couples to lounge and get to know one another. For students, the Park offers many welcome distractions. I attend Hunter College, which lies just a few blocks from the Park. On particularly nice days, it is not uncommon to note a precipitous drop in class attendance. Professors joke that most of the absentees are cutting class to spend time in Central Park, and they’re probably right. The Park offers a great environment for both studying and forgetting all the schoolwork that’s due. When exploring the Ramble, the Park’s wooded landscape, it’s incredibly easy to forget that you’re strolling through Manhattan. The seclusion offered by the trees and the rugged, meandering trails exude a Pocono feel. Though the Ramble doesn't offer the same selection of wildlife that you'd find in an actual forest, the Park offers not one, but two zoos--one of them is a designated children's zoo--with a great selection of animals to marvel at. Travel to the Loeb Boathouse between 74th and 75th Street to rent a rowboat or gondola with which to glide across the expansive lake that the Boathouse overlooks. Belvedere Castle, which was built in 1869 by a co-designer of Central Park, offers stunning views of the Great Lawn to the north and the Ramble to the south. The National Weather Service records and broadcasts the Park’s temperatures from the castle’s tower. The Central Park SummerStage, held at Rumsey Playfield from June through August each year, offers tons of free performances. This list of attractions is by no means exhaustive. Visit the Park's official website to view the full list (http://www.centralparknyc.org/visit/things-to-see/). Perhaps the most charming aspect of Central Park is that it offers something for all of those who visit. Take the trip and you’ll undoubtedly find something to do.

Lakisha Johnson Jun 11, 2013 4.0 stars Our little piece of Heaven. From 59th street to 110th is New York's prized gem. Central Park. For tourist and New Yorkers it's a hot spot and a total change from the concrete jungle to a serene setting. If your looking for a picnic in the grass, a walk for a good cause, boat rides, bike rentals, or just a good ole frisbee toss Central Park should be your 1st choice.

Modu Ture May 29, 2013 4.0 stars A day in central Park I never thought that i would make it to the USA one day because it was always one of my dream to hang out with friends in New York City especially in that park . I am from a place that is totally different from NYC and it was always like a dream to see different places .When i first went to central park it was like a full of surprise that i had discover and that brought me nothing but happiness .i said to myself that the African boy finally made his dream come true!i spent hours in the park looking at the beautiful nature that surrounded me and reminded me of the fields that i used to go to farm during raining season in Africa because it was green all over the place!The park is well decorated and you can see kids with their mothers and daddy having fun and also visitors that were just like me who appreciate the beauty of the park and take picture to immortalize those moments!Coming to NYC without visiting Central Park is like going to Paris without seeing Tour effel

Ravishing Chica May 1, 2013 4.0 stars One of the citys gorgeous gems, you must visit You cannot visit the city without taking in its most priced gem which is Central Park. Whenever I have out of towners come visit, I make sure they go this gorgeous and spacious park. You will be mesmerized by the scenery and interesting people. I especially love frequenting this park during the spring time when it is at its most liveliness of moments. During this time the trees are robust with colors, the flowers smell so good, and every where you look you will find life and energy taking over the atmosphere. One of my favorite activities while visiting Central Park is visiting the zoo. I love watching the animals and being one with nature. The only problem maybe locating the zoo if you are new to the city. I find that the easiest way to enter would be by entering exactly on 5th Avenue and 65th Street. If you try to enter the zoo while your already in the park, good luck because you will find yourself in a maze. Once you overcome the maze you will be well delighted with what else is at store for you. If you want a great place to take pictures, then look no further. You will find countless locations within the park to take some gorgeous photography. Once again, spring time will make the best time to strike your pose with all the lovely blooming scenery. You will also find various small bridges and gazebos that also make for wonderful background. I definitely give this park two thumbs up as a must go to attraction when in the city.

Natalie Cooper Apr 5, 2013 4.0 stars The Central Park Boathouse It's a warm Saturday afternoon. We sit off to the corner in the outside dining area so as not to be disturbed. The sunlight is shining through my white wine glass, and I see the reflection of its rays projected out onto the lake in front of me. We've had a long work week, and it feels amazing to simply relax and have a drink. Waiters in black weave in and out of small tables with gatherings of people sitting and enjoying the nice weather, chatting softly over drinks and appetizers. I take a sip of my wine and look out at the New York City skyline before me. The noise of the city seems so far away from the hidden escape the patio of the Boathouse provides. I move my chair over a few inches to make room for a family of eight to sit and enjoy our secret gem with us. The ripples of the lake break softly against the deck, as rowboats filled with people float softly on the water, separating the flower petals that have fallen onto to water. Looking out at the vast buildings before us, I'd never know such a peaceful place could exist in a city that's always on the move. But it's here, tucked away behind the trees and the boulders of the park. The Central Park Boathouse is New York City's secret escape.

Jeffrey Kurtz Mar 30, 2013 4.0 stars Come on, come through, New York New York! Without fail, one of my favorite places to be in New York City is Central Park. The city may get crazy at times, but no matter what, there is always that fifty-block stretch of hills, boulders, fields, and shady walkways that consistently moves at a third of the speed as the rest of the city. It's pretty incredible to be surrounded by skyscrapers on all sides while laying out on a grassy area twice the size of a football field, knowing that you're still only in one part of a much greater whole. Whether you want to take your kids to a playground, relax like the olden days with a horse and buggy ride, or simply take a pretty, tree-lined stroll, the park's entertainment value is relatively limitless. The entertainment stays consistent through the seasons as well. During the spring and summer months, the zoo is an attraction that brings people by the thousands. For music lovers, the Central Park SummerStage offers concerts from May through September, many of which are free to the general public. On the flip side, taking that tree-lined walk through the park in autumn is a picturesque way to spend a Saturday afternoon, and nothing can touch the incredible beauty of a fresh snow covering the trees as they're lit by decorative holiday lights. There are boundless other things to say about Central Park but none of them will really provide a full picture of the experience available. It's hard to describe the amazing juxtaposition of such a large and lush area with the surrounding metal and concrete, without writing a novel about the subject. I highly recommend you just see for yourself.

Shasha Song Feb 25, 2013 3.0 stars Feel peaceful Central park always gives me a peaceful feeling when I take a walk there. When I step into Central Park, I feel a strong sense of freedom. Some people are bicycling, some people are walking while chatting with friends or family members, some children are chasing each other and laughing happily. I love seeing this kind of scenario, this is what we call real life.

Morena Orue Feb 24, 2013 3.0 stars Love Central Central Park is not just the lung of the city; it is it´s heart too. My favorite time to visit the park is definitely fall; it seems to come to life the way that nature intended to. But you may fall in love with it at any time; there’s Shakespeare in the Park over the summer, amazing concerts during spring and ice skating during winter. What makes Central Park great is the same thing that makes New York great, it can be whatever you want it to be. You can join the masses that jog, bike and walk their dogs over the weekends and you will feel part of the engine that keeps the city alive. But if you´re not in the mood, if what you are looking for is an escape, Central Park can be that for you too. Grab your guy or gal pal, a bottle of wine, a blanket and just lay down… I have walked around the park holding a boyfriends hand and felt love; I have stared out from an office window and daydreamed of stories I have since forgotten. I have ran around with my daughter, watched her climb the Alice in Wonderland statue and boy did I feel love! Well no for nothing it is the heart of the city.

Hazel Guardado Feb 15, 2013 4.0 stars NYC at its best It's paradoxical to think that one of the best parts of a city can be the part that isn't actually a city. From its beautiful bridges, lakes, and gardens to the crowds, vendors, and surrounding buildings, Central Park is the perfect blend of the cultured and chaotic, lively parts of NYC. It's a place to go for a run, do yoga, catch up with a friend, or grab a bite to eat. It's also a place that you can never outgrow. People watching in Central Park is one of the best things to do -- you'll spot so many interesting people and events, sometimes even weddings! Definitely spend at least two hours there, you won't regret it.

Kathleen Gruffi Dec 12, 2012 3.0 stars A must see! I have visited Central Park a few times. It has been an experience each and every time!!! I have brought my class to different areas of Central Park and have enjoyed it each time. It is clean, the people are respectful and pleasant, and there are always bathrooms close-enough for emergencies and to wash your hands! No one really bothers you and you enjoy the time that you have there! A few friends have told me in the past that there are people that walk around selling mini bottles of liquor and beer - so it's a park for all ages! ;)

ChristinaW Dec 12, 2012 4.0 stars Obviously you have to go here I mean, it's Central Park! Who goes to New York without visiting Central Park?? You would be crazy not to. I'm not really sure how to write a review of Central Park, because it doesn't really matter who you are or what you are into, there is something here that will suit you. If you're like me, you'll just enjoy the massive green space in the city, have a picnic, play some frisbee, or whatever you feel like. I must say, though, my favorite part about Central Park is the zoo. (This is funny, because my favorite part about Lincoln Park in Chicago is also the zoo. Maybe I just really like zoos.) But anyway, Central Park zoo is a pretty great zoo, and it is even better because it is in the city and easy to access. All in all, you have to visit Central Park when you're in New York! It would be quite silly not to.

mashildk Dec 11, 2012 4.0 stars Extensive and Excellent I have been to Central Park countless times, and everytime I walk around, I seem to find a new nook or cranny that I have somehow missed. It is big of course, but it is also deceptively big. From waterways to tunnels, secluded spots to open fields, the park can bring you out of the city one moment just to remind you that you are still surrounded by behemoth structures the next. It's great for running and biking, but also good for more traditional sports as well with many fields in many parts of the park. Bring along a picnic and grab a spot on a nice day, and check out the free shows all summer on Summerstage. Oh and there are some world class museums on the fringes of the park as well. Who could ask for anything more?

Jaclyn Wishnia Dec 4, 2012 4.0 stars NYC Staple This is a no brainer. It's been featured in movies, referenced in classic novels and basically takes over the middle of the upper isle of Manhattan. Of course you have to visit! I have been to concerts in the park, played both frisbee and flag football in the park, had your cliche Memorial Day picnic in the park, walked through the Central Park Zoo where my friend used to work and even got lost once. One time I got lost in Central Park. As an urban dweller, sometimes it is difficult to find your way among the trees even when there is a path to follow. I stumbled upon the boathouse as well as a huge wedding party taking photos. Somehow my trip from East 60th street brought me all the way to the 90s on the west side. I may have been lost for a long time, but it's a wonderful place to get lost in especially on a beautiful day. Central Park is a lovely respite from the busy city. Sure it's still milling with all kinds of people, but the greenery provides an inner calmness to the environment that is teeming within the stone walls that surround the park. Whether you're a tourist or a resident, at one point or another you will end up in Central Park; even if it's by mistake.

Sydnie Spector Dec 2, 2012 3.0 stars Very cute I have been to Central Park a lot when I was younger for family picnics. I remember always having a great time here, for it is a beautiful area to sit in, especially during the warmer months. However, it is also stunning during the winer months when the snow is on the ground. The sculptures are a great addition to the park. I can't wait to come back and do some people watching and stroll around the area. I have never felt unsafe in Central Park, for it is well-lit and it is always very crowded! It is great for dates too!

Africa Walsh Dec 2, 2012 4.0 stars Really goes without saying I go to college right next to Central Park, and I still don't feel like I've seen all there is to this place. In every season the scenery is beautiful, and there's so many different places to sit and hang out--it's just really refreshing. There's this great castle on a hill you can go up in for an awesome view of the park, too. There's sculpture everywhere and horses and a million different languages being spoken... it's always an awesome experience. Just don't go here at night and watch out for joggers/bicyclers, who are usually very nice but not always haha. If you're a tourist you have to visit, if you're not you still need to come by sometime. Just take a break from the grind and go for a walk lol.

Jody Pollara Dec 1, 2012 4.0 stars What can I say about Central Park? If you are in NY, this is one place you MUST go. Seriously. It is a huge park in the middle of the biggest city in the US. You literally can't miss it. There are a ton of things to do in NY and during your travels around the city, you are bound to come across Central Park at some point without having planned it in your itinerary. I find myself wandering through the park almost every time I visit New York. In the summertime, it is bustling with joggers, picnickers, and people just hanging out. In the wintertime, it is almost just as busy with horse-drawn carriage rides and ice skaters, or just people decked out in scarves and heavy coats passing through the park to get to wherever they're going. Central Park is a must-see for a trip to NYC.

Rachel Schwartz Dec 1, 2012 4.0 stars Beautiful Central park is one of a kind. It is a small piece of green in a huge city. When I visit i always come to central park to go on walks. I like to spend a lot of time here. It is nice to go to some of the restaurants and hang out with friends. It is also fun to come in the winter time. You will see people during the summer just laying out or playing catch. There are barbeques and sun bathing. It is also very touristy but it is big enough so it doesnt even matter. I love that you can go ice skating in the winter time. Nothing like it!! It is so nice to get a break from the big city and come to central park to get away.

cmchalmers Dec 1, 2012 4.0 stars A New York Must See If you come to New York, you absolutely must visit Central Park. There is so much to do and something for everyone. Grab a map and visit the reservoir, the zoo, or join a pick up game of sports on the huge expanse of lawn space. It is a great place for walkers, runner, and bikers. No matter what time of year you go, it is always says so beautiful. There are plenty of food options including the Boathouse and the Tavern on the Green. One of the best parts of Central Park is you can really feel like you are getting in touch with nature in a huge city. I would definitely recommend Central Park to anyone.

Michele Pearlman Dec 1, 2012 4.0 stars Get a map and be Enchanted! Lived in Manhattan for 4 years. So many aspects of this park for so many ages, sports, romance, families. You must get a map or you will miss the Historic Carousel, 20 plus Har-Tru Courts FOR THE PUBLIC, Zoo, Boathouse, Statues, ball parks, rollerblading, reservoir with a track around it and much much more. Central Park is tremendous in size and worth a self walking tour. If your time is limited, go for the Horse and buggy tour.....very romantic and good for the colder months. Did I mention there are free concerts in the park as well as plays? Shakespeare too!

FISHNETS Nov 22, 2012 4.0 stars Love it! Though Central Park is often high on tourist to-do lists, as a born and raised New Yorker I still really enjoy the park. It's a great place for runners and bikers, there are fields for baseball and lots of lawn space which is great for soccer or frisbee - or tanning and watching other people actually play sports. I've never gone to Central Park for the sake of going to the park, but I usually find myself there a couple times a year for races, concerts, dinner or as a scenic way to walk uptown. Personally my favorite part of the park is the Alice in Wonderland statue on 74th Street.

Chris Krovatin Nov 19, 2012 4.0 stars New York in a nutshell There is, arguably, no part of New York City as important as Central Park. This massive collection of fields, woods, lakes, ponds, and outdoor stages has for decades charmed and transfixed New Yorkers and tourists alike. Sure, some aspects of the park are less than lovely--the Ramble, for one, or the horse-drawn carriages--but there's so much going on in this vast explosion of nature (with a gorgeous metropolitan skyline surrounding it) that you can easily overlook its flaws. Perfect at any time of the year, from summer picnics to wintery walks, Central Park is that extra bit of romance and outsider understanding of the world that makes New York the greatest city on the planet.

Ariel Chisholm Nov 7, 2012 4.0 stars Beautiful! If you're in New York, you have to go to Central Park at least once! It is absolutely beautiful and the perfect little piece of nature surrounded by the bustle of New York City. It is ideal for family, little kids have plenty of space to run around. It is perfect for picnics or just a day in the sun. I love running here, there are multiple trails to choose from and it's relaxing; the scenery is beautiful and peaceful. There are also tons of concerts and events held here! The overall atmosphere of the park is just unbeatable, you'll absolutely love the experience.

tiffanywslee Oct 5, 2012 4.0 stars Perfect escape from the city I went there for the first time last weekend on a sunday afternoon. Believe it or not, Central park is more beautiful then anything you'll hear about it! Went there for a jog and had plenty of trails to choose from, in the end I chose to run around the resovoir and it was absolutely beautiful! The jogging path there is a little narrower but everyone (nonrunner/ runners included) had great trail sharing ettiqite so it wasn't bad at all. Afterwards, laid down on some grass to cool down and enjoy the sun. That's the great thing about the park is that while there's so much going on and there are so many kids running around catching ball, there's still plenty of space for everyone to have their own. Only had enough time to explore the west side this time but definitely will take a look at the east side next! Oh also, if you're going on a sunday, stop by the farmer's market by the west entrance to grab some fresh groceries before you head home!

Nicole Herman Oct 1, 2012 4.0 stars No Better Place Centreal Park is the closest to nature you can get in NYC. A great escape from the daily grind. Wonderful any time of year, but summer is of course peak season. There are always great events and free concerts. The park is also great for exercise. I love to go for a run because the paths are wide and clearly marked. No need to worry about traffic or cyclists. -Great for the whole family. I love to watch the kids race little electric speedboats in the pond. -Great for a date. Setup a picnic! -Great for some artistic inspiration. Go out on your own, or take a class!

Peg Rogers Sep 27, 2012 4.0 stars Tavern on Green and Resevoir In visiting the park the last of August (2012) I was disappointed to find Tavern On the Green is still closed for reservations and won't open until sometime summer of 2013..... so before you include that in your plans, check their website. In the meantime, we had a great experience at the Loeb Boathouse restaurant. This wonderful resource has two restaurants, an informal sandwich / deli and a sit-down find dining which overlooks the lake. Our experience was wonderful. We were dressed for deli food....but really enjoyed the service and wine of fine dining. I love the Jacqueline Onassis reservoir and running loop. A bit over 1.5 long, I can't see Jacki O jogging, but she so deserves credit for preserving the park for generations to come.

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Central Park Culture / Outdoor Activity / Park

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Central Park Schedule of Events

June 2013

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Party Earth Central Park Review

The Scene

Tip from Emma:

Crowd

Entertainment / Music

Food / Miscellaneous

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What to Wear / Dress Code

Hot Nights / When to Go

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Central Park User Reviews

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