Central Park: Manhattan's Green Oasis
Escape to Manhattan's iconic green space: stroll through scenic landscapes, enjoy outdoor activities, and discover cultural treasures in Central Park.
Central Park, an 843-acre urban park in the heart of Manhattan, is a beloved retreat for locals and tourists alike. Opened in 1858, it offers a diverse landscape of meadows, woodlands, gardens, and lakes, providing a natural escape from the bustling city. With a rich history and numerous attractions, Central Park is a must-see destination for any visitor to New York City.
A brief summary to Central Park
- New York, Manhattan, New York, US
- +1212-310-6600
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-1 am
- Tuesday 6 am-1 am
- Wednesday 6 am-1 am
- Thursday 6 am-1 am
- Friday 6 am-1 am
- Saturday 6 am-1 am
- Sunday 6 am-1 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking to explore the vastness of the park.
- Visit during the spring or fall for the most pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
- Check the Central Park Conservancy's website for events and activities happening during your visit.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the Great Lawn or Sheep Meadow.
- Take advantage of the free activities, such as birdwatching, walking tours, and Shakespeare in the Park.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Central Park is accessible via multiple subway lines and bus routes. Depending on your starting point, take the A, B, C, D, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, N, Q, or R train to a station near the park's perimeter. Several bus routes, including the M1, M2, M3, M4, M10, and M72, also stop near the park. A single subway or local bus fare is $2.90, payable via OMNY or MetroCard. OMNY offers fare capping, limiting weekly spending to $34.
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Walking
If you are already in Midtown Manhattan, walking to Central Park is a viable option. From Times Square, head east on 47th Street to 6th Avenue, then walk north to Central Park South (59th Street). Enter the park at Grand Army Plaza or Columbus Circle. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and takes about 25-30 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to reach Central Park. A taxi from Times Square to the southern end of Central Park typically costs $11-$16 and takes about 4 minutes, depending on traffic. Note that fares are subject to surcharges, including rush hour and congestion fees. Uber estimates the average cost from JFK Airport to Central Park to be around $91.
Discover more about Central Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alexander Hamilton Monument
0.2 km
Discover the Alexander Hamilton Monument in Central Park, a stunning sculpture celebrating the legacy of one of America's founding fathers amidst tranquil green surroundings.
The Obelisk
0.3 km
Explore The Obelisk in Central Park, a 3,500-year-old Egyptian monument, and behold history and art in one breathtaking landmark.
Graffiti in the city
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant street art of Manhattan, where every corner tells a story through stunning graffiti murals and creative expressions.
Church of the Heavenly Rest
0.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of the Heavenly Rest, a historic Episcopal church in the heart of Manhattan.
Metropolitan Museum Historic District
0.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Metropolitan Museum Historic District, a cultural gem in New York City.
Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District
0.7 km
Explore the Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District, where history meets vibrant city life amidst stunning architecture and lush landscapes.
Park Avenue Historic District
0.9 km
Experience the charm and elegance of Park Avenue Historic District, a must-see architectural gem in the heart of New York City.
5th Ave
0.9 km
Discover the charm of 5th Avenue, a must-see destination in New York City filled with shopping, culture, and iconic landmarks.
The San Remo
1.0 km
Explore The San Remo, a historic architectural gem on Central Park West, embodying the luxury and culture of Manhattan's iconic skyline.
Bethesda Terrace
1.1 km
Explore Bethesda Terrace, a historic gem in Central Park, where stunning architecture meets breathtaking views of New York City.
The Dakota
1.1 km
Discover The Dakota, a historic landmark in New York City known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich cultural history.
Daniel Webster Monument
1.1 km
Explore the Daniel Webster Monument in Central Park, a stunning tribute to American history and eloquence amidst nature's beauty.
Carnegie Hill Historic District
1.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Carnegie Hill Historic District, a serene gem in Manhattan's vibrant landscape.
Riverside-West End Historic District
1.4 km
Discover the Riverside-West End Historic District, a stunning historical landmark in Manhattan showcasing beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage.
W 72nd St
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant charm of W 72nd St in New York City, a must-visit destination for culture, cuisine, and iconic city life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arthur Ross Pinetum
0.1 km
Discover the tranquility of Arthur Ross Pinetum, an enchanting arboretum in Central Park filled with diverse pine trees and serene landscapes.
Seneca Village Site
0.3 km
Uncover the rich history of the Seneca Village Site in Central Park, a significant African American settlement that shaped New York City's legacy.
Delacorte Theater
0.4 km
Discover the Delacorte Theater in Central Park - a unique outdoor venue for world-class Shakespeare performances and unforgettable experiences.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
0.4 km
Explore thousands of years of art and culture at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, a must-see destination for every traveler.
The Central Park Turtle Pond
0.4 km
Explore the tranquility of Central Park's Turtle Pond, a serene escape in the heart of Manhattan with stunning views and abundant wildlife.
Ancient Playground
0.4 km
Discover the Ancient Playground in New York City's Museum Mile—an artistic play haven for children amidst cultural treasures.
Belvedere Castle
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting Belvedere Castle in Central Park, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into New York's rich heritage.
Neue Galerie New York
0.5 km
Explore the beauty of early 20th-century German and Austrian art at the Neue Galerie New York, a cultural gem in Manhattan's Upper East Side.
Shakespeare Garden
0.5 km
Discover the beauty of Shakespeare Garden in Central Park, a serene escape filled with blooms, literary charm, and tranquil pathways for all visitors.
Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting world of puppetry at the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre in Central Park, where captivating performances delight audiences of all ages.
Essential places to dine
The Milling Room
0.8 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at The Milling Room in Manhattan, where fresh ingredients meet innovative cooking.
The Smith
1.8 km
Savor exquisite American cuisine at The Smith in Manhattan—your go-to spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and oysters.
Per Se
2.2 km
Experience exquisite French fine dining at Per Se with stunning Central Park views and unforgettable culinary artistry.
ROBERT
2.2 km
Savor exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking views at Robert in Manhattan's Columbus Circle.
The Modern
2.6 km
Experience fine dining at The Modern in NYC - where American and French cuisines meet artful presentation in an exquisite setting.
Le Bernardin
2.7 km
Discover unparalleled seafood delights at Le Bernardin – New York's premier French fine dining destination offering exquisite tastes and elegant ambiance.
Ellen's Stardust Diner
2.7 km
Experience Broadway magic while savoring classic American dishes at Ellen's Stardust Diner in New York City.
Cafe Archetypus
3.7 km
Discover Cafe Archetypus in Edgewater: A charming cafe offering artisanal coffee and delicious pastries with stunning river views.
Maiella
4.0 km
Experience exquisite Italian dining at Maiella in Queens with stunning skyline views and authentic flavors.
American Brass
4.3 km
Discover American Brass: A Culinary Haven in Long Island City Offering Fresh Seafood & Prime Steaks with Stunning Views.
Hortus NYC
4.5 km
Experience unique Asian fusion flavors at Hortus NYC, where Korean culinary traditions meet modern innovation in Manhattan.
Jackson's Eatery | Bar
4.6 km
Discover Jackson's Eatery | Bar in Long Island City: A perfect blend of American cuisine and vibrant atmosphere awaits you.
Sugar Freak
4.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Creole cuisine at Sugar Freak in Astoria - where Southern hospitality meets culinary excellence.
Oscar Wilde
4.6 km
Discover Oscar Wilde: A Victorian-inspired bistro and bar offering exquisite New American cuisine in the heart of Manhattan.
Upland
4.8 km
Experience the best of Californian-Italian cuisine at Upland in Manhattan - where vibrant flavors meet chic ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Museum Shop
0.7 km
Explore The Museum Shop for unique gifts inspired by nature and science at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.
HINA
1.0 km
Discover unique home goods at HINA, where local charm meets modern design in the heart of the city.
Unique Boutique
1.3 km
Explore Unique Boutique, a charming thrift store in Manhattan, for one-of-a-kind vintage finds and eco-friendly shopping.
Really Great Things NYC Boutique
1.5 km
Explore unique women's fashion, custom tailoring, and couture pieces at Really Great Things NYC Boutique in the heart of Manhattan.
New York Attitude Gift shop
2.5 km
Explore New York Attitude Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and a cozy bar atmosphere, capturing the vibrant spirit of the Big Apple.
I Love NY by Phantom of Broadway
2.7 km
Discover the spirit of New York at I Love NY by Phantom of Broadway, where every souvenir tells a story.
Ny's Best Gift Shop
2.8 km
Explore Ny's Best Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local treasures amidst the vibrant streets of Manhattan.
NiLu Gift Boutique
2.8 km
Explore the charm of NiLu Gift Boutique, where unique gifts and local crafts await every visitor in vibrant Harlem, New York City.
Rough Trade
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant music culture of New York City at Rough Trade, a record store and cultural hub for music lovers.
The Shop at NBC Studios
2.9 km
Explore unique souvenirs and NBC-themed gifts at The Shop at NBC Studios, a must-visit destination in the heart of New York City.
Gifts on the Square
2.9 km
Explore Gifts on the Square for unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the vibrant spirit of New York City, right in the heart of Times Square.
I Love NY Gifts by Phantom of Broadway
3.1 km
Explore I Love NY Gifts by Phantom of Broadway for the best selection of New York souvenirs and unique memorabilia that capture the city's essence.
Grand Slam New York
3.1 km
Explore the heart of Manhattan at Grand Slam New York, your go-to gift shop for souvenirs, toys, and sporting goods in the city that never sleeps.
Line Friends New York Times Square Store
3.2 km
Explore the whimsical world of Line Friends at the iconic Times Square store, a treasure trove of toys, fashion, and exclusive merchandise.
Domus - unaffected living
3.4 km
Explore Domus in Manhattan, a hidden gem for unique gifts and home decor reflecting the vibrant spirit of New York City.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tanner Smith's
2.4 km
Discover Tanner Smith's, a stylish gastropub in Manhattan offering exquisite cocktails and modern American cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
PIMCO
2.8 km
Discover PIMCO, a key financial institution offering breathtaking views and a taste of Manhattan's vibrant economic life.
Strangelove Bar Nyc
2.8 km
Discover the eclectic ambiance of Strangelove Bar NYC, where craft cocktails meet a punk-rock vibe in the heart of Manhattan's nightlife.
Lost in Paradise Rooftop
3.7 km
Discover Lost in Paradise Rooftop, an enchanting cocktail bar in Queens, offering breathtaking skyline views and expertly crafted drinks.
Raines Law Room at The William
3.8 km
Experience the charm of Raines Law Room at The William, a cocktail bar in Manhattan known for unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
Hudson Blue Bar & View
3.9 km
Discover Hudson Blue Bar & View: your ultimate destination for sports, stunning views, and delicious food in Weehawken, New Jersey.
Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store
4.0 km
Discover the enchanting blend of live piano music and handcrafted cocktails at Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store in Manhattan.
THE HUNTRESS whiskey, wings n’ other things
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of The Huntress in Long Island City, where gourmet wings, craft beer, and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Shannon Pot
4.0 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Shannon Pot, a cozy pub in Queens serving delicious food and a wide selection of drinks.
LIC Bar
4.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at LIC Bar in Long Island City, where great drinks and lively dancing create unforgettable memories.
Bar 47
4.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Bar 47 in the Bronx, where great drinks and community spirit come together for an unforgettable night out.
Gantry Bar & Kitchen
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Gantry Bar & Kitchen in Long Island City, serving delicious food and cocktails with a stunning Manhattan skyline view.
The Beast Next Door
4.3 km
Discover The Beast Next Door, a cocktail bar in Long Island City, Queens, known for its inventive drinks and inviting atmosphere, perfect for any night out.
Mad Donkey Beer Bar & Grill
4.3 km
Discover the lively Mad Donkey Beer Bar & Grill in Astoria, where delicious grilled dishes meet entertaining comedy and karaoke nights.
Diamond Dogs
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Astoria at Diamond Dogs, a cocktail bar and beer garden known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
