Central Park

Central Park: A beautiful 874 acre haven from the hustle and bustle of New York City

A screened view of Manhattan's highrises from Central Park
A screened view of Manhattan's highrises from Central Park

Located in the center of Manhattan, Central Park provides a pastoral refuge from the chaos and noise of New York City. Recognised as a National Historic Landmark in 1963, Central Park is the most visited park in the country. Covering over 874 acres, Central Park offers a near endless array of activities for natives and newcomers alike.

While an extensive network of trails perfect for running or hiking, Central Park also offers numerous recreational opportunities, including tennis courts, skating rinks, swimming pools, baseball fields, horseback riding, fishing and boat rentals. Birdwatchers will want to explore "The Ramble", a wooded section of the park where many species of woodland birds can be spotted in the spring and fall. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the Conservatory Gardens, the Park's first formal garden and Turtle Pond which attracts migratory birds and several species of turtle.

Central Park also hosts a number of cultural festivals and a summer concert series on the Great Lawn featuring popular and classical music. A beloved summer tradition, The Public Theater holds its critically acclaimed Shakespeare in the Park series at the Delacorte Theatre with eight weeks of free performances.

Young children will enjoy a visit to Central Park every bit as much as adults, especially the Central Park Carousel, which is one of the largest merry-go-rounds in the United States, the petting zoo at the Tisch Children's Zoo at the Central Park Wildlife Center and the Marionette Theatre at the Swedish Cottage. For a less structured approach, visit the Alice in Wonderland and Ugly Ducking statues, sail model boats at Conservatory Waters or simply enjoy the 21 playgrounds scattered throughout the Park.

The Central Park Conservatory also offers a variety of free guided interpretive walking tours, if exploring the park on your own seems overwhelming. These free tours run throughout the year except in extreme weather. You can check out the calendar on the official site to see what tours are happening on any given day. Bicycle rentals, horse-drawn carriages and pedi-cabs offer good alternatives to walking to explore sites throughout the park. iPhone users can download the Central Park Conservatory app for suggested itineraries and photography sites.

Nearby attractions: Central Park Wildlife Center, American Museum of Natural History, The Met and the Cloisters, Whitney Museum of American Art, Metropolitan Opera, The Frick Collection and Carnegie Hall

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: no

Central Park Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
  • Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
  • Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
  • Thursday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
  • Friday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
  • Saturday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
  • Sunday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM

Address: New York, NY, USA

Phone: (212) 310-6600

Official Website: Central Park

Central Park Reviews

Rated 4.8 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating The central park was really nice, it was impressive to walk in a park which is in the middle of the city. There were so many people picnicking, relaxing, exercise, and even doing online yoga classes, which was interesting to watch. The first thing was horses with carriage, which was the initial cost of $79 and $20 everything each ten minutes. The dogs were on leads and always so friendly. I love dogs 🐕 so for me ,this was a heaven. The water fountains are everywhere, so you can fill up your bottle or just drink directly for free. There are bicycle and running paths, though, so we need to be aware of not crossing their way. It was amazing to stay and walk around. I am definitely recommending everyone to visit. The girls are selling a cup of fruit for $5 dollars. It's freshly cut and delicious. Enjoy squirrels everywhere and don't forget to bring nuts 😉
Jana Miskarova - 4 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating It has been many years since the last time I visited Central Park, so I didn't remember how lovely this place really was. I revisited this park this past weekend and enjoyed playing "tourist" in my own city. If you don't feel like walking around like I did, you have the option for a pedicab tour or horse and carriage ride. They have plenty of places to check out like a visitor's center to get information, a carousel, a zoo, boat rentals, gift shops, playgrounds, mall, etc. While doing your own self-guided tour, there are QR codes to get an audio tour about the points of interest. They also have several places around the park to get a bite to eat. But be forewarned...it can be a bit expensive so I suggest bringing your own drinks and snacks if you are planning on being here for a while. I didn't get a chance to really explore the entire park as this place is quite huge. There are a good amount of restrooms throughout the park and plenty of places to sit and rest. There are critters scurrying about, but I didn't see the "rats" that several other reviewers have mentioned. The park is kept reasonably clean and seems safe during the day. In my opinion, Central Park is a great place to get some exercise, explore, or just relax. I will definitely visit again in the future the next time I want to play "tourist" again.
Lisa S - 2 months ago

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4 Star Rating My visit to Central Park was an absolutely wonderful experience. This iconic New York park is a true oasis in the heart of the city. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by lush greenery and breathtaking landscapes. The paths are perfectly maintained and offer numerous opportunities for walking, jogging, or simply relaxing. I particularly enjoyed the lake, where you can rent rowboats for a romantic or family outing. The gardens, such as the Conservatory Garden, are beautifully landscaped and provide an ideal setting for rejuvenation. The park is also rich in cultural and recreational activities. From street performers to art installations, there’s always something interesting happening. The playgrounds and open spaces are perfect for families, and there’s plenty of room for picnics and outdoor games. In summary, Central Park is a must-visit destination for anyone in New York. Its natural beauty, combined with the variety of activities available, makes it a perfect spot for a memorable day out.
Sacha - a month ago

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5 Star Rating If you are in Manhattan and looking to ride a bike or jog or casually stroll, then this is the park for you. It is a very safe place during the daytime. You must do boating in the lake. Park is pretty big so be prepare to walk some distance. Park is a tourist paradise.
Ashish Satyabhashak - a month ago

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5 Star Rating I think this might be my first time writing a review for something other than food. Central Park is much larger than you can imagine, sprawling and full of life. What I loved the most were the benches with engraved messages. Each one tells its own little story and adds a personal touch to the park’s charm. It’s a perfect place to relax, explore, and take in the beauty of nature right in the middle of the city.
patthamon s - a month ago

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Directions

Subway Line Nearest Station Walking Time
N, Q or R (South End)59th Street5 minutes
1 or 2 (South End)Columbus Circle5 minutes
A, B or C (Mid Park)American Museum of Natural History station or 86th Street2 minutes
A, B, or C (North End)96th Street, 103rd Street or 110th Street2 minutes
2 or 3 (North End)110th Street5 minutes

How to get to Central Park by Subway

For the southern end of the Park, take the N, Q or R train to 59th Street or the 1 or 2 train to Columbus Circle and enter the Park from 59th Street. For the middle of the park, take the A, B or C train to the American Museum of Natural History or 86th Street and enter the park from Central Park West. For the northern end of the park, take the A, B, or C train to 96th Street, 103rd Street or 110th Street and enter the park from Central Park West or take the 2 or 3 train to 110th Street, head southwest on Lenox Ave (Malcolm X Blvd) into the park.

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