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Bow Bridge: A Central Park Icon

Experience the romance and beauty of Bow Bridge, an iconic cast-iron landmark in the heart of Central Park, offering stunning views and timeless charm.

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Bow Bridge, a beloved landmark in Central Park, is a picturesque cast-iron bridge that spans The Lake, connecting Cherry Hill and the Ramble. Completed in 1862, it's one of the oldest cast-iron bridges in the United States, offering stunning views and a romantic ambiance that has made it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Bow Bridge

  • 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

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photographs.
  • Take a stroll through the nearby Ramble or relax on Cherry Hill to extend your visit.
  • Consider renting a rowboat from the Loeb Boathouse for a unique perspective of the bridge from the water.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Bethesda Terrace, walk west towards The Lake. Follow the path along the water, and you'll soon see Bow Bridge arching gracefully ahead. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

  • Public Transport

    Take the B or C subway line to the 72nd Street station. Walk east through Central Park, following signs towards Bethesda Terrace. Continue towards The Lake, where you'll find Bow Bridge. The walk from the subway station is approximately 15 minutes. Subway fare is $3.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Ask your driver to drop you off at the 72nd Street and Central Park West entrance. From there, walk east into the park, following signs towards Bethesda Terrace and The Lake. Bow Bridge will be a short walk away. A taxi/ride-share from Times Square to Bow Bridge is approximately $11-$14, plus potential surcharges.

Unlock the Best of Bow Bridge

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Discover more about Bow Bridge

Bow Bridge, gracefully arching over The Lake in Central Park, is a quintessential New York City landmark. Designed by Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould, it was completed in 1862 and has since become one of the most photographed and filmed locations in the park. The bridge connects Cherry Hill, a manicured landscape, with the Ramble, a sprawling woodland, symbolizing its role as a facilitator of diverse park experiences. Constructed of cast iron instead of the stone used for other Central Park bridges, Bow Bridge stands out with its elegant curves and subtle ornamentation. Janes, Kirkland & Co., the firm that built the U.S. Capitol dome, provided the ironwork. The bridge stretches 87 feet across the lake, with a balustrade extending 142 feet, adorned with an interlocking circular banister and eight decorative planting urns. Bow Bridge has undergone restorations, including a significant one in 1974 by the Central Park Conservancy, ensuring its original condition is maintained. Its design incorporates Gothic, Neo-Classical, and Renaissance elements, reflecting the Victorian era's craftsmanship. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the surrounding greenery, making it a popular spot for romantic walks, wedding proposals, and leisurely activities.

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