Central Park in New York: What to See and Know

What You Need to Know About Central Park

• Central Park was designed in 1857 by American landscape architect Frederik Law Olmsted. At the time, the 340-hectare (840-acre) site was far from inviting, with quarries, marshes, and slums scattered across it. Few would have thought to spread a blanket here back then.
• Today the park stretches 4 km (2.5 mi) long and 800 m (2,625 ft) wide. It runs from 59th Street to 110th Street, where Harlem begins. The park’s western edge is bordered by 8th Avenue and the Upper West Side. To the east, Fifth Avenue and the Upper East Side frame the park. Tip: The most visited section of Central Park lies between 59th and 79th streets.
• One more thing: while New York is generally considered safe, avoid walking through the park at night. Instead, visit Central Park on weekends to enjoy the family atmosphere on the lawns and pathways.
• The Central Park Conservancy, which manages the park, estimates it receives about 42 million visits each year. That figure is hard to verify precisely, so take it with a grain of salt. What is certain: Central Park is the most visited park in New York. It’s a place you should not miss during your stay.

What to See in Central Park

Central Park is packed with sights and peaceful corners to discover. Here are the top attractions to see in Central Park:

1. Belvedere Castle: This striking medieval-inspired castle offers panoramic views over Central Park.
2. Strawberry Fields: A plaque honors John Lennon, the former Beatles leader who lived nearby and was killed outside his home.
3. Bethesda Fountain: The heart of the park, with its statue and basin overlooking the lake. Street performers bring the fountain to life on nice days.
4. From the fountain, head up to the Mall, one of Central Park’s main pathways. You’ll see long rows of benches, each with inscriptions. Learn more on our page about Central Park benches.
5. Bow Bridge: A romantic arch bridge with views of the lake and surrounding buildings. It’s a favorite spot for marriage proposals.
6. Alice in Wonderland Statue: Children love climbing on this sculpture, located near Conservatory Water. Nearby you’ll also find the Hans Christian Andersen statue.
7. Central Park Zoo: While not the largest zoo in New York, it offers nice views of Manhattan and gained fame from the movie Madagascar.
8. The Central Park ice rink: From October to March, skate on one of New York’s most famous ice rinks.

Ways to Explore Central Park

Bike Rental

• Walking the entire park is impractical given its size. Renting a bike lets you see the main sights at your own pace. Visit our page on bike rentals in Central Park.

Guided Bike Tours

• Prefer not to navigate on your own? Join our guided bike tour of Central Park. This 3-hour tour takes you to the park’s most beautiful spots.

Electric Scooter

• Central Park is also perfect for exploring by electric scooter. Book your electric scooter rental in Central Park in advance.

Pedicab Ride

• If pedaling isn’t your style, let a pedicab driver do the work. This effortless way to see the park takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on your choice. Check out our page on pedicab tours in Central Park.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

• Another classic way to experience the park is by horse-drawn carriage. You’ll see the park’s highlights while enjoying a memorable moment with your horse and driver. These tours have been a New York tradition since the late 1870s.

Visitor Reviews

• Nath Giron: “I loved the beauty of this vast park, the hip hop performances, eating ice cream by the lake, watching a baseball practice, lying on the grass breathing in the peaceful air, visiting the zoo—which is magnificent—seeing Bethesda Fountain, the Alice statue, watching New Yorkers jogging, families picnicking. In short, this green lung is absolutely rejuvenating and wonderful, whether you’re strolling, biking, rollerblading, or canoeing…”
• Marjolaine Barbosa: “Walking and enjoying the peace. What a joy! And knowing you’ve set foot in Central Park—wow! Everything is beautiful, especially under snow. But what I loved most were the squirrels. I see them at home, but on the roadside. Here they come right up to your feet! I love NYC.”
• Caroline Saleil Commaille: “I love Turtle Island, I love sitting on the rocks and watching the buildings around me and listening to the city’s sounds. I love searching for raccoons in their tree trunks, I love visiting Belvedere Castle, I love seeing newlyweds doing their photo shoots… I love it all!”
• Valerie Fouquet: “The atmosphere in this park is incredible! Best of all are the people dancing together and inviting us to join—it’s amazing!”
• Micheline Claes: “Cleopatra’s Needle is worth the visit. Don’t miss climbing to the roof of the Met on Fifth Avenue for an exceptional 360-degree view. Try to find the memorial to Balto the dog—it’s not easy. And a quick trip up to the top of Belvedere Castle is worthwhile too.”

Central Park Through the Seasons

Map and Directions to Central Park