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Bethesda Fountain: Angel of the Waters

Iconic Central Park fountain featuring the Angel of the Waters statue, a symbol of healing and purity in a stunning architectural setting.

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Located in the heart of Central Park, Bethesda Fountain is one of New York City's most iconic landmarks. Designed by Emma Stebbins in 1868, the fountain features the Angel of the Waters statue, commemorating the Croton Aqueduct that brought fresh water to the city in 1842.

A brief summary to Bethesda Fountain

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or summer to see the surrounding flowers and trees in bloom.
  • Go in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter visit, avoiding the larger crowds.
  • Explore the 'Whispering Gallery' in the tunnel connecting the two terrace levels for its unique acoustics.
  • Take a guided tour offered by the Central Park Conservancy for in-depth insights into the history and design.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the southern end of Central Park, enter near 72nd Street and follow the main path north. Bethesda Terrace and Fountain are located in the middle of the park, a short walk from Bow Bridge and The Lake. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Take the B or C subway lines to the 72nd Street station on Central Park West, or the 6 train to the 68th Street-Hunter College station on Lexington Avenue. From either station, walk west into Central Park and follow the signs to Bethesda Terrace. Subway fare is $3 per ride.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Ask your driver to drop you off at the 72nd Street Transverse Road entrances on either Central Park West or Fifth Avenue. From there, it's a short walk into the park to reach Bethesda Fountain. A taxi or ride-share from Times Square will cost approximately $13-$16.

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Discover more about Bethesda Fountain

Bethesda Fountain, the centerpiece of Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, is a beloved gathering place for both tourists and locals. The two-story terrace, designed by Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted, offers intricate carvings depicting the times of day and seasons. The fountain itself, designed by Emma Stebbins, features the Angel of the Waters statue, which stands 26-feet high. The statue's iconography connects to the Croton Aqueduct, with the angel holding a lily representing purity and the four cherubs below symbolizing peace, health, purity, and temperance. Stebbins, the first woman to receive a public art commission in New York City, drew inspiration from the Gospel of John, where an angel blesses the Pool of Bethesda with healing powers. The fountain and terrace have appeared in numerous films and television shows, adding to its fame. Today, Bethesda Terrace and Fountain remain a popular destination within Central Park. Visitors can relax by the fountain, admire the architecture, and enjoy the views of The Lake. The Minton tile ceiling of the arcade connecting the terrace levels is also renowned for its beauty and unique acoustics.

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