Central Park: The Green Heart of New York City
Experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of Central Park, the iconic urban oasis in the heart of New York City.
Central Park is an iconic urban oasis in Manhattan, offering tourists a chance to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Spanning over 840 acres, this lush retreat is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and various recreational activities. Discover serene lakes, picturesque bridges, and a diverse range of flora and fauna as you explore this beloved park.
A brief summary to Central Park
- New York, Manhattan, New York, US
- +1212-310-6600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Consider renting a bike to explore more of the park's extensive trails.
- Don't miss the Strawberry Fields memorial dedicated to John Lennon.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the Great Lawn or by one of the park's many lakes.
- Check the park's calendar for free events and performances, especially in the summer.
Getting There
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Subway
Take the subway to Central Park by getting on the A, B, C, D, or 1 train. If you are starting from Times Square, take the 1 train from the Times Square-42nd Street station towards South Ferry. Get off at the 59th Street-Columbus Circle station. From there, head northeast to enter the park at the Columbus Circle entrance.
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Bus
You can take the M5, M7, M10, M20, or M31 bus that travels along routes close to Central Park. If you're near the Museum of Modern Art, catch the M5 bus from 53rd Street and 6th Avenue towards Battery Park. Get off at the stop near 59th Street and 7th Avenue, and walk northeast to enter the park.
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Walking
If you're close to Central Park, simply walk there. For example, from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, head west on 82nd Street towards 5th Avenue. Turn left onto 5th Avenue and walk south until you reach the park entrance at 59th Street. Alternatively, if you are in the Upper West Side, walk east down 72nd Street until you hit the park.
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Bike
Consider renting a bike from one of the many bike-sharing stations around the city. If you are near the Hudson River Greenway, bike east towards 72nd Street, then follow the bike path into Central Park at the 72nd Street entrance.
Discover more about Central Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alexander Hamilton Monument
0.2 km
Explore the Alexander Hamilton Monument in Central Park, a historic sculpture celebrating the legacy of one of America’s founding fathers amidst nature's beauty.
The Obelisk
0.3 km
Discover The Obelisk in Central Park: An ancient Egyptian monument that embodies history, beauty, and cultural significance in the heart of New York City.
Graffiti in the city
0.5 km
Explore the captivating street art of Manhattan, where graffiti transforms the city into a vibrant canvas of creativity and expression.
Church of the Heavenly Rest
0.6 km
Discover the tranquility of the Church of the Heavenly Rest, a stunning Episcopal church on Fifth Avenue, perfect for reflection and architectural admiration.
Metropolitan Museum Historic District
0.7 km
Discover the artistic heritage and architectural beauty at the Metropolitan Museum Historic District, a captivating part of New York City.
Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District
0.7 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of the Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District in Manhattan, where history meets modern vibrance.
Park Avenue Historic District
0.9 km
Experience the architectural beauty and historical significance of Park Avenue Historic District in the heart of Manhattan, NYC.
5th Ave
0.9 km
Explore Fifth Avenue, New York's iconic street of luxury shopping, culture, and history, where every step reveals the essence of Manhattan.
The San Remo
1.0 km
Explore the historic San Remo, an architectural marvel on Central Park West, blending luxury living with a rich cultural heritage.
Bethesda Terrace
1.1 km
Explore the beauty of Bethesda Terrace, a historic landmark in Central Park, featuring stunning architecture and a serene atmosphere, perfect for every traveler.
The Dakota
1.1 km
Discover the historical elegance of The Dakota, a stunning landmark in New York City that embodies the rich cultural tapestry of the Upper West Side.
Daniel Webster Monument
1.1 km
Explore the Daniel Webster Monument in Central Park, a historic tribute to an iconic American orator amidst lush New York scenery.
Carnegie Hill Historic District
1.2 km
Explore Carnegie Hill Historic District, a beautifully preserved neighborhood in Manhattan rich in architecture and history, perfect for leisurely strolls.
Riverside-West End Historic District
1.4 km
Discover the charm and history of Riverside-West End Historic District in Manhattan, featuring stunning architecture and a serene riverside park.
W 72nd St
1.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and cultural richness of W 72nd St, a notable street in Manhattan filled with boutiques, cafes, and historic landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arthur Ross Pinetum
0.1 km
Discover the tranquility of the Arthur Ross Pinetum in Central Park, a serene arboretum featuring a diverse collection of conifers and peaceful walking paths.
Seneca Village Site
0.3 km
Explore the historic Seneca Village Site in Central Park, a testament to the vibrant 19th-century African American community in the heart of New York City.
Delacorte Theater
0.4 km
Delacorte Theater: A captivating outdoor venue in Central Park for unforgettable performances and memorable cultural experiences.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
0.4 km
Discover a world of art and culture at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City’s premier cultural destination with an extensive collection spanning centuries.
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
Experience the magic of Ancient Playground in New York's Museum Mile, where creativity and play come together amidst cultural treasures.
Belvedere Castle
0.5 km
Discover Belvedere Castle in Central Park: A historic castle offering breathtaking views and rich history amidst the natural beauty of New York City.
Neue Galerie New York
0.5 km
Explore the exquisite world of early 20th-century German and Austrian art at Neue Galerie New York, a cultural treasure in the heart of Manhattan.
Shakespeare Garden
0.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Shakespeare Garden, a floral tribute to the Bard nestled in Central Park, perfect for nature lovers and literary enthusiasts.
Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre
0.5 km
Discover the whimsical charm of the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre in Central Park, where enchanting puppet performances captivate 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.