Central Park: The Heart of New York City
Explore Central Park, an iconic urban oasis in New York City, offering natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural landmarks in a serene setting.
Central Park is not just a park; it is a symbol of New York City, representing the perfect blend of nature and urban life. Spanning over 843 acres, it offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling streets of Manhattan. Visitors can wander through its beautifully designed landscapes, featuring meandering paths, serene lakes, and expansive meadows. The park’s natural beauty is complemented by a variety of attractions, including the iconic Bethesda Terrace, the scenic Bow Bridge, and the charming Central Park Zoo, each offering unique experiences for tourists. In addition to its picturesque scenery, Central Park is a hub for recreation. Whether you prefer a leisurely bike ride along the park's designated paths, a peaceful rowboat ride on the lake, or a picnic on the Great Lawn, there is something for everyone. The park also hosts a vibrant calendar of events throughout the year, including concerts, theater performances, and seasonal activities that draw both locals and visitors alike. With its rich history dating back to the mid-19th century, Central Park is also a cultural landmark. It features numerous statues and monuments that pay tribute to significant figures and events in American history. The park’s design, led by landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, was revolutionary for its time and continues to influence urban park design worldwide. A visit to Central Park is not just a stroll through nature; it is an opportunity to soak in the essence of New York City, making it an essential stop on any tourist’s itinerary.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful light for photography.
- Pack a picnic and find a spot on the Great Lawn for a relaxing afternoon.
- Consider renting a bike to explore more of the park's vast trails.
- Don't miss the Central Park Zoo, especially if traveling with children.
- Check the park's calendar for free concerts or events happening during your visit.
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
Getting There
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Train
From Greenwich, head to the Greenwich Train Station located at 2 Railroad Avenue. Purchase a ticket to New York City. Board an express train to Grand Central Terminal. The journey typically takes about 50 minutes. Once you arrive at Grand Central, follow the signs to the 42nd Street exit.
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Metro/Subway
After exiting Grand Central, walk towards the subway entrance located at 42nd Street. Take the 7 train towards Flushing. At Times Square-42nd Street station, transfer to the 1, 2, or 3 trains towards downtown. Get off at 59th Street-Columbus Circle. From there, it’s a short walk to the south entrance of Central Park.
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Bus
From the Greenwich Train Station, take the Connecticut Transit bus (CT Transit) Route 10 towards Stamford. Get off at the Stamford Transportation Center. There, transfer to a New York City Transit bus (MTA) Route M10 or M20 heading towards Columbus Circle. Get off near the south entrance of Central Park.
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Walking
If you are near the Greenwich waterfront, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the waterfront path. Head towards the OGRCC (Old Greenwich Riverside Community Center) and follow the path northeast until you reach the train station. From there, you can take the train as described above.
Landmarks nearby to Central Park
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Alexander Hamilton Monument
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The Obelisk
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Graffiti in the city
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Church of the Heavenly Rest
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Metropolitan Museum Historic District
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Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District
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Park Avenue Historic District
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5th Ave
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The San Remo
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Bethesda Terrace
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The Dakota
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Daniel Webster Monument
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Carnegie Hill Historic District
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Riverside-West End Historic District
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W 72nd St