15 Best Things to Do in Central Park, NYC + Map

Central Park is one of NYC’s largest green spaces, providing various recreational facilities, waterways, and nature trails. There are numerous additional activities that can be enjoyed within Central Park, so a visit is essential for any individual touring the major city.

While touring around Manhattan, you may pass through Central Park, but I advise dedicating a few hours here. Not only is this among the top parks in New York City, but it welcomes visitors at any time of year, consistently offering activities.

In this guide, I’ll share the prime sights to see in Central Park and some tips to help you make the most of your time there. If possible, I suggest leasing a bicycle since it’s the best way to explore the park and view many different landmarks in a brief time, particularly if you’re traveling to NYC in 3 days.

At the conclusion of this article, I’ll share the best guided excursions through Central Park that enable sightseeing of the most significant spots. I’ll also share a map depicting the locations within NYC’s Central Park along with surrounding hotels and restaurants.

1. Visit the Loeb Boathouse and paddle along The Lake in Central Park, NYC

Covering 20 acres, The Lake is one of the highlights of Central Park, and boat rides have been offered here since the 1860s.

It became evident that the city required a storage facility for the boats, so development on the LoebBoathouse began in the 1870s. Currently, the Loeb Boathouse is more of a restaurant and event space, but you can still rent a rowboat or take a gondola tour. Gliding along The Lake is a famous Central Parkactivity, and one of the best things to do in NYC, especially as a couple. While rowing along the water, you can see the Bow Bridge, one of the most popular bridges in NYCsince it is a beautiful cast-iron bridge and walkway.

Afterward, check out the Loeb Boathouse restaurant, which is accessible for brunch, lunch, and dinner. There is also a seasonal outdoor bar where you can sit back and watch the boats float by while enjoying a cool beverage. It’s one of the best outdoor activities in NYC.

2. Bethesda Terrace & Fountain, one of the most famous places in Central Park

Located on the southeastern edge of The Lake, visitors will find Bethesda Terrace, an important landmark within Central Park. This dual-level structure displays some intricate architectural elements including grand staircases, arches, balustrades, and an arcade

The terrace’s lower level, referred to as the Esplanade, comprises columns and arches adorned with carvings representing nature and the four seasons. The upper level has a carriage road and connects to the Naumburg Bandshell and the Central Park Mall, which I’ll cover later.

One aspect making this among the most renowned spots in Central Park is the Bethesda Fountain, the terrace’s stunning focal point. Capping this expansive fountain is the statue of theAngel of the Waters, representing the Biblical story of Jesus healing a paralyzed man at Bethesda. Furthermore, the fountain was completed at the same time as the Croton Aqueduct, supplying fresh water to Manhattan. Hence, the Bethesda Fountain came to symbolize purity and cleansing.

One thing is for certain – if you look out from the terrace’s upper level, you’ll get a lovely view of the fountain and The Lake behind it.

3. Look out from Belvedere Castle, one of the best things to do in Central Park

Another amazing activities for couples to do in NYC is to savor the romantic view from Belvedere Castle. This decorative observation post sits at the top of Vista Rock, and it’s one of the highest points in the park. Not only can you see the Manhattan skyline from here, but you’ll also get lovely views of Turtle Pond, the Great Lawn, and The Ramble.

Besides its observation deck, Belvedere Castle has exhibition rooms, a visitor center, and a weather station. Even though the construction was completed back in 1872, it’s still one of the top places in Central Park, owing to its scenic views, lush surroundings, and Gothic and Romanesque design.

I recommend visiting Belvedere Castle when you first arrive at Central Park since you can get visitor information to help you plan your day.

4. Conservatory Garden, another place in Central Park you must visit

Wandering through the Conservatory Garden is another romantic activity to partake in within Central Park, and you may even see a married couple taking photographs in this area. The six-acre formal garden is split into three sections, each showcasing distinct floras and decorations.

First, the Italian-style central garden features a symmetrical lawn with a fountain, a giant sycamore tree, and a wisteria-covered pergola that’s popular for wedding parties.

The English garden features the water lily pond titled The Secret Garden and the Burnett Fountain, along with large shrubs, decorative grasses and seasonal plants. The French section includes the Untermeyer Fountain showing the Three Dancing Maidens bronze artwork. This area is known for spring tulips and fall blooming Korean chrysanthemums.

An additional interesting fact regarding the Conservatory Garden is that you enter via the Vanderbilt Gate, an ornate iron entryway that once stood before the renowned Cornelius Vanderbilt II House.

5. Visit one of the Central Park playgrounds

There are also plenty of opportunities in Central Park with kids. There are over 20 playgrounds here, but I`ll tell you about a few of the most popular spots.

Initially, Heckscher Playground is the oldest and largest playground in Central Park, spanning three acres. It has restrooms, slides, swings, seesaws, climbing rocks, and water sprayers. You can find it on 7th Avenue, at Central Park South.

Another crowd-pleaser among New Yorkers is the Billy Johnson Playground at 67th Street and Fifth Avenue. What sets this playground apart is its incorporation of natural formations and even a slide built into a hillside of rocks. In addition, it provides picnic areas, a small amphitheater, and a sprinkler for summertime enjoyment.

Near the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Ancient Playground is one of Central Park’s most frequented playgrounds. It’s inspired by the Met’s Egyptian collection and has pyramid structures kids can climb and slide down, as well as an obelisk and sundial.

Two other famous places to visit in Central Park are the Safari Playground and the Tarr-Coyne Wild West Playground. The former can be found at 91st Street, off Central Park West, and offers a more relaxed space where kids can run around freely. It’s known for its statue designs and treehouse structures. The latter playground has a theme centered around the American frontier and contains wooden play facilities. It’s near Safari Playground, on 93rd Street.

6. Harlem Meer, a lovely, natural place in Central Park, New York

In addition to The Lake, the Harlem Meer, an artificial lake near the Conservatory Garden, is also worth exploring. This beautiful natural area of Central Park is a popular place for picnicking and relaxing.

The Meer has undergone changes over the years, with the most recent in 2018, when Lasker Rink was removed and replaced with the Harlem Meer Center, which has a fresh ice rink and pool. A grass-bordered walking path along the edge of the Meer is the perfect spot to take a stroll or sunbathe. As you observe people, keep an eye out for waterfowl like herons, as well as muskrats.

You can also go to the nearby Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, a visitor center that hosts complimentary community events and exhibits. The center lets you rent out binoculars, lawn games, and fishing poles since catch-and-release fishing is permitted at the Meer.

7. Ride the Central Park Carousel, the best thing to do in Central Park with kids

For the youthful and those young at heart, riding the Central Park Carousel is one of the premier activities in Central Park. The beautifully carved vintage carousel is regarded as a scenic landmark in Central Park and all of Manhattan.

The Central Park Carousel is not the first to operate at this location. In fact, the park has seen four different carousels throughout history, with the original dating back to the year 1871. The present-day model found in Central Park is considered among the largest carousels in the nation, spotlighting 57 individually handcrafted and vibrantly decorated horses. Taking a leisurely spin on this attraction qualifies as one of the premier recreational activities the park has to offer, serving as an enjoyable pastime especially suited for those traveling to New York City with young kids. A single ride costs three American dollars, and the operators solely accept physical currency.

8. Have a picnic at the Sheep Meadow a romantic thing to do in Central Park

Escaping the noise and chaos of the city is among the best activities in Manhattan, and the SheepMeadow offers the ideal spot to find fresh air and peace. Located between W. 66th and 69th Streets, this 15 acre area provides ample space to relax and unwind.

Originally planned as an open space for military parades, the park`s designers opposed this usage. Instead, it served as grazing land for sheep, thereby acquiring its name. No sheep have grazed there since 1934, but the Sheep Meadow remains one of the best areas in Central Park worth exploring.

On any provided day, one can see many individuals resting on the grass, playing games, and having picnics. Thanks to its spacious lawn and lush surroundings, the meadow is a popular location for picnics, so get some food from the Tavern on the Green or one of the nearby cafes and enjoy a meal outside.

9. The Mall & Literary Walk, one of the most beautiful places in Central Park

An additional pleasant activity at Central Park is to stroll along The Mall, a wide path lined with elm trees and benches. The huge elms serve as a canopy, creating a scenic and shady spot to observe people, read, or listen to musicians and street performers. It’s my favorite place in NYC during the fall.

The Mall, which was created as an area for gathering and strolling, is a beautiful place to visit throughout the year. You can follow it to Bethesda Terrace or The Ramble or walk north towards the Naumburg Bandshell. To the east lies Rumsey Playfield, hosting musical performances and SummerStage events, and the statue of Balto, the famous Alaskan sled dog.

The southern part of the Mall is known as the Literary Walk, named after its collection of statues symbolizing famous writers and historic figures. Among the statues here are William Shakespeare, Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Fitz Green Halleck, and the Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony Suffrage Movement Monument.

The newest addition to the Literary Walk is the Women’s Rights Pioneers Monument, which was added in 2020. It was the first sculpture included to this famous Central Park route in over 50 years.

10. Ice skating at Wollman Rink, something to do in Central Park in winter

If you’re seeking activities to partake in NYC during winter, I suggest ice skating at Wollman Rink.

The rink provided locals and visitors alike enjoyment on the ice since opening in 1949, bringing people together to glide and slide across the frozen surface. Today, one can participate in lessons through the arena`s Skate School or rent skates and venture out independently. Lockers are also available to lease, and the rink`s Wollman Cafe is open for quick purchases.

The period of ice-skating stretches from November to March, although if you visit NYC at Christmas time, you can enjoy the festive celebrations at Central Park. In addition to skating, you can meet Santa, listen to choristers, and see the lighting of the Christmas tree at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center.

Also, during the off-peak season, Wollman Rink transforms into Victorian Gardens, a children`s amusement area with family-friendly rides, carnival games, and food sellers.

11. Imagine a different world at the John Lennon Memorial/Strawberry Fields

For fans of The Beatles, a visit to the John Lennon Memorial at Strawberry Fields is essential. This Central Park landmark draws crowds from around the world, deservedly so as one of the park`s most renowned areas.

The space encompasses 2.5 acres and is named after the famous song by the Beatles “Strawberry Fields Forever,” which was composed by Lennon. The region features landscaped flowers, shrubs, trees, and rocks, and the focal point of the memorial is a round mosaic made of stones that spell out IMAGINE. It’s a reference to Lennon’s song “Imagine,” which promoted global peace, respect, and understanding on a worldwide scale.

The mosaic, which is often decorated with flowers, candles, and gifts from Lennon’s fans, was crafted in Naples, Italy, and presented to New York City. It serves as a bittersweet remembrance of the musician and peace advocate, who was fatally shot in 1980, just a few hundred feet from the memorial.

12. Visit the Alice in Wonderland statue, a good thing to do in Central Park with kids

Another worthwhile sightseeing attraction in Central Park, especially for families with children, is the Conservatory Water boat pond. This scenic body of water is surrounded by lush greenery such as cedar, willow, pine, and beech trees. Interestingly, the pond is home to freshwater jellyfish, and a red-tailed hawk and its mate have lived here for many years.

What makes this one of Central Park’s hidden treasures is the enchanting Kerbs Memorial Boathouse, where visitors can rent remote-controlled model boats and navigate them across the charming pond. The idyllic scene of miniature vessels gliding across the picturesque waterbody resembles a storybook scene.

Regarding that, it’s also worth visiting the bronze statues near the Conservatory Water Pond, notably, Alice in Wonderland. The sculpture features Alice seated on a mushroom as she enjoys a tea party with her kitten, the Mad Hatter, the March Hare, the White Rabbit, the Dormouse, the Cheshire Cat, and the Caterpillar.

You can also see the statue of the renowned Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen on the opposite side of the pond. The author is immortalized holding his book, The Ugly Duckling, on his lap, and the statue was designed to be climbed upon by children, so it has a level place to sit.

Visiting the Conservatory Water Pond and its bronze statues presents a great opportunity in Central Park in spring, especially since they’re next to Pilgrim Hill, where you can see groves of Yoshino cherry blossoms blooming.

13. See a show and other events in Central Park

Central Park isn’t your average greenspace, so it’s unsurprising that it hosts various performances throughout the year. William Shakespeare`s plays in the open air is one of the most famous events, as well as one of the top complimentary activities in NYC.

Shakespeare in the Park is a summer tradition in New York City and takes place outdoors at the 1,800-seat Delacorte Theatre, at the southwestern corner of the Great Lawn. Attending one of these performances is among the best activities to do in Central Park, and it’s free, although you’ll need tickets. Same-day tickets are available outside Delacorte Theatre or at The Public Theater, which organizes the event.

Traditionally, there are two featured productions each summer, and occasionally, non-Shakespearean plays are staged. These aren`t low-budget performances either! Shakespeare in the Park features large-scale productions with full costumes, sets, and sound design. In the past, several acclaimed actors have performed, like James Earl Jones, Meryl Streep, and Al Pacino.

For those who prefer other experiences than Shakespeare, there are additional activities held in Central Park, NYC, especially the notable SummerStage Festival. While it is not free of charge, this annual event features performances and concerts by globally renowned artists such as Michael Franti, Barenaked Ladies, and Modest Mouse.

14. See the cherry blossoms, the best thing to do in Central Park in the spring

The Yoshino and Kwanzan cherry blossom varieties shouldn`t be missed in Central Park, so plan your visit for mid-April through early May if viewing them is a priority.

Once the buds initially open, it takes only a week for the cherry blossoms to reach their complete bloom, and the pink and white petals rapidly fall to the ground. The cherry trees are a reminder of the fleeting beauty and nature of life, and people flock to the park every season to witness these delicate flowers.

You’ll find the highest concentrations of cherry trees at the Great Lawn,Pilgrim Hill, and the JacquelineKennedy Onassis Reservoir, a decommissioned reservoir renamed after the former First Lady. Cherry trees and blossoms can also be seen at the aptly named Cherry Hill, which overlooks The Lake, and CedarHill, at the 79th Street and Fifth Avenue entrance.

Some planning pays off for walking amid the cherry blossom groves, the finest activity in Central Park during springtime. The lovely magnolia tree blooms also enchant, lasting a bit longer.

15. Take a nature walk at the Hallet Nature Sanctuary

Taking a leisurely stroll through nature is one of the best activities to partake in within Central Park in the fall season, and there are several locations worth exploring within the park. Initially, the Hallet Nature Sanctuary near The Pond offers a small, wooded area in the southeastern corner of the park. The sanctuary, which is part of the Atlantic Flyway, serves as a temporary resting place for various migratory bird species traveling through. Besides appreciating the beautiful birds, visitors can also see the Gapstow Bridge, which spans across The Pond.

The North Woods is another suitable place for a stroll in Central Park, and its expansive rocks make it a popular area for climbing on boulders. It was the last section of the park to be constructed, and at 90 acres, it’s the park’s largest wooded region. As you walk through the North Woods, you’ll pass The Ravine, The Pool, and the Loch, which drains into Harlem Meer. The woodlands also connect to the North Meadow recreational facility and the West 110th Street Playground.

Another scenic walking track and birdwatching area can be found at The Ramble. It winds through rustic bridges, rocky outcrops, and streams, and is located close to other popular Central Park attractions like Bethesda Terrace, Belvedere Castle, and Cleopatra’s Needle.

Inscribed with hieroglyphics, Cleopatra’s Needle dates back to the 15th century B.C. when it stood in the ancient Egyptian city of Heliopolis. It was gifted to New York City in the 1870s and stands 69 feet tall.

Central Park Zoo, a place we don’t recommend visiting

The Central Park Zoo is a well-liked place to visit, especially with children. While it’s a top Central Parklandmark, we don’t advise visiting it since we favor seeing animals in their natural, wild habitats. Besides, there are lots of other activities in Central Park, as you can see!

Central Park bike rentals

Central Park spans over 840 acres, so don`t expect to see and do everything in a single trip. That said, if you`re short on time or want to maximize your visit, bicycle rentals are available in Central Park.

Renting a bicycle is the best way to get around Central Park and explore freely. Your rental includes a map of the park, a helmet, a chain lock, and a basket. Plus, you can choose from a selection of mountain bicycles, tandem bicycles, baby seats, and more.

You can rent a bicycle for 1 to 4 hours or for an entire day, so I suggest that this activity might be suitable if you know which attractions you would like to explore. If you prefer to discover the park with guidance, a guided bicycle tour of Central Park would be a better option. I’ll discuss the different tour options available in Central Park in the next section.

Central Park tours

Again, there are different Central Park excursions available, so if you want a general overview of the park or want to see the most famous areas, check out these options.

Central Park bike tours

This guided cycling tour will take you to the most popular sections of the park over the course of two hours. A helmet, bike lock, and basket are included, and you’ll be led by a professional guide who will share their insights and some history about Central Park.

This is the best Central Park bike journey if you’re interested in the most renowned attractions like the Bethesda Fountain, Conservatory Water, the Conservatory Garden, Belvedere Castle, and Strawberry Fields. This trip is also incorporated into the New York Pass.

Central Park walking tours

If you prefer an organized stroll through Central Park, I recommend this particular one. A guide will take you through the best sections of Central Park while sharing interesting facts, film and TV history within the area, and other fascinating tidbits. Movie buffs will enjoy seeing some iconic filming locations from productions such as Eat, Pray, Love,Cloverfield, andSex andthe City.

Bring your camera because you’ll pass by Central Park’s most famous bridges, waterways, monuments, and sculptures. This is one of the best walking tours in NYC, and it`s super cost-effective, too.

Central Park TV & movie sites tour

For people who are particularly interested in famous Central Park areas portrayed in TV and film, this walking tour stands as the top choice. You’ll spend two hours visiting over 40 locations within Central Park, counting the Bethesda Fountain and Wollman Rink. See the Loeb Boathouse cafe shown inWhen Harry Met Sally and stop by the Bandshell highlighted in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share interesting facts and trivia, and even give you recommendations for shows and other activities in NYC.

Central Park helicopter tour

Finally, one of the most memorable Central Park tours you can undertake involves a helicopter flight over this famed landmark. This 15-minute flight above Manhattan is one of the best helicopter tours in New York City and takes you not just over Central Park, but iconic sights like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty.

The tour is narrated, and the helicopter has 180° windows so you can get the best views and see the complete scope of the park. So, if you want to do some Central Park sightseeing in a totally different way, I highly recommend this flight!

Hotels near Central Park, NYC

If you plan to stay overnight, here are some highly rated hotels near NYC`s Central Park:

• The Plaza – The historically famous Plaza Hotel along Fifth Avenue and Central Park South is one of the highest rated 5-star hotels in New Yorkand has been a setting in iconic films such as North By Northwest,The Way We Were,The Great Gatsby, andHome Alone 2. Stay here and enjoy 24k gold-plated bathrooms and rain showers, and the hotel’s spa, salon, and luxury retailers.

• 1 Hotel Central Park – This eco-friendly hotel is near The Plaza and offers private bathrooms, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center. It’s one of the best high-end hotels in New York City.

• This botanical garden located in Brooklyn
• This botanical garden situated in New York

• Park Central – This hotel is also a good choice with a 24-hour gym and different room and suite offerings. It’s positioned at 7th Avenue, within easy walking distance of The Met, the Rockefeller Center, and Radio City Music Hall.

• The West Side YMCA – This YMCA located on the west side of Manhattan is one of the most inexpensive places to stay in Manhattan with shared and semi-private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi access. Visitors will have entry to the sizable exercise facilities and two swimming pools, and it is situated a brief five-minute walk from Columbus Circle.

We also have a complete guide on where to stay in NYC if you want more selections in Midtown or Lower Manhattan.

Central Park restaurants

Whether you want to grab a quick snack for a picnic or prefer a sit-down meal, there are many dining establishments in NYC’s Central Park. Here are my top recommendations:

• The Lakeside Restaurant located at Loeb Boathouse Central Park is a lovely Central Park dining spot where you can enjoy al fresco or indoor meals. The Boathouse also features an outdoor bar area where you can sip after-dinner drinks while watching boaters on The Lake.

• Tavern at the Green – This Central Park landmark was originally designed to house the sheep at the Sheep Meadow. The restaurant serves brunch, lunch, and dinner in its indoor bar room and outdoor patio.

• Zuckers Bagels – For a quick meal, head to Zuckers Bagels, which is known for its wheat and breakfast combos with smoked seafood. This Central Park eatery is a New York staple and a popular stop on many NYC food tours.

• Per Se – Situated at Columbus Circle, this sophisticated French establishment stands as one of the top rated restaurants in NYC and ideal for a romantic dinner including foie gras, ribeye, and fine wine.

• Marea – Opposite Per Se, you’ll find Marea, another eminent NYC restaurant serving exquisite Italian entrees and sweets.

Central Park map

New York City`s winter markets represent some of the most intriguing attractions found within the city during the holiday season. Whether hoping to shop for unique Christmas gifts or simply browsing, a visit to the markets is highly recommended.

If you still have questions about Central Park’s activities and sights, check out the FAQs below!

Central Park FAQs

Here are some regularly asked questions about visiting the world’s most famous park. If you don’t find the answer to your question here, feel free to leave me a comment. I’ll be happy to help you out!

With that, you have all the information required to plan your visit to Central Park! Be sure to download the Central Park map above and leave me a comment with any questions or recommendations you may have!