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 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 - a month 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 week 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 week ago

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5 Star Rating I love Central Park all season long, I have walked from 59 to 110 many times and have certain spots that are my absolute favorites to put into my routine walks. There is nothing more lovely then to just stroll through a random day at Central Park. You never know what type of event, random street musician, flower in season, leaves all fallen or just a lush green Central Park. I am blessed to be able to have this park so close to me and make that a usual routine. I highly recommend this park for any native or touring New Yorker here ✨🙏🏼
Nicolas Vanegas - a week ago

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5 Star Rating Each side of the park is beautiful and a perfect place to spend a day out with family and friends. Plus I like that they have a playground for kids and a zoo inside the park❤️We enjoyed the east side the most during spring and summer. Looking forward to enjoying the fall season soon 🍁 🍁
Prachi Agrawal - 2 weeks 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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