Central Park is a well-known urban park. With an area of 843 acres, it is an essential green area within the busy metropolis. Another reason for its popularity is its reference in many television shows and movies.
Gossip Girls, and Friends, are some of them. Among the countless things offered by this place, here are 20 things to do in Central Park:
1. Explore The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET)
This is a huge museum and one of the most visited in New York. Your visit might turn into a hike if you intend to explore every corner of this place.
Nevertheless, the museum has done a great job housing some finest art in a single place. The MET will showcase any type of art you are interested in. The 17 administrative departments manage these collections.
Address: 1000 5th Ave
2. Visit The Central Park Zoo
There are three primary types of species found in Central Park Zoo: tropical, temperate, and polar. It is a tiny zoo with habitats such as Tropic Zone and Polar Circle.
You can purchase tickets online and check the zoo schedule for today on the official website of Central Park Zoo. Once you reach the park, go to the "I’m in the park" section on the website and they will digitally guide your trip.
Address: East 64th Street 5th Avenue
3. See John Lennon Mosaic At Strawberry Fields
You should see the John Lennon mosaic if you're a fan of the Beatles. There are artists along the way who play John's song.
You might have to wait your turn for photo sessions. It is best to visit early in the morning. However, it is a lovely area in the Central to relax and reflect.
Address: 717 Fifth Avenue
4. Weekend At American Museum of Natural History
This part of Central Park has many things to see from different sections. One of the places people widely visit is the fourth floor. It is about ancient and advanced mammals.
The 4th floor also contains fossils of different types of dinosaurs. Moreover, the elephant, butterfly, and invisible exhibits are a must-see. A trip to this museum is a fun day out for the kids.
Address: 200 Central Park W
5. Go To Bethesda Terrace
The middle of Central Park is where Bethesda Terrace is located. One of the finest things to do in Central Park is to visit this place. It is well-known for its beautiful architecture and energetic atmosphere.
The Bethesda water fountain, referred to as the Angels of the Water monument, is another attraction. You might have seen this fountain in the TV show Friends. The terrace is divided into two sections by a staircase.
Address: Mid-Park at 72nd Street
6. Admire The Belvedere Castle
Belvedere translates to beautiful in Italian and this place does the justice to its name. It is a Rocco-style castle located on the top of a hill, from where one can overlook the central park.
A tourist center including displays of the park's history and natural features may be found inside the castle. The location is considerably more alluring because it is free.
Address: 79th Street Mid-Park at 79th
7. Dine In At Central Park Boathouse
This Central Park restaurant is a lovely place to eat while looking at the lake and people rowboating. The menu is limited and the prices are quite expensive.
But it is the atmosphere that makes you want to eat here. Central Park Boathouse offers local, American cuisine and is friendly with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Address: EAST 72ND ST +, Center Drive
8. Take Rest At Sheep Meadow
After a day tour of the famous Central Park locations, find your way towards this open space. The place provides you with a peaceful escape into nature, even when it is surrounded by the city.
Here you can play soccer, and frisbee, read, sunbathe, or engage in picnics. A beautiful view of Manhattan is visible, especially on clear days. Take a look at some of the things to do in Manhattan.
Address: 1802 65th Street Transverse
9. See Alice in Wonderland Statue
Alice in Wonderland is another popular attraction in Central Park. It is a relaxing spot near the Conservatory Water. The statue is quite huge and children love climbing up to the top.
You can read the various quotes written on the edge of the statue. A nearby attraction is the Hans Christian Anderson statute. Here, every Saturday morning during summer, a children's storytelling session is held.
Address: 76th Street and 5th Avenue near Conservatory Lake
10. Stop For Drinks And Snacks At Tavern On the Green
Tavern on the Green provides a welcoming atmosphere right from the reception. The indoor beauty, outdoor seating, and elegance of this place are top-notch.
This is one of the best restaurants in Central Park, ideal for snacking and drinking after a stroll. The beer garden is usually packed, so quickly find a seat. The gigantic hot pretzel and the plantain chips are not to be missed snacks.
Address: W 67th St & Central Park West
11. A Short Stop At Balto Statue
This is a fun little stop on your Central Park visit. The monument belongs to a Siberian dog for his role in the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska. Read the script below to know more about the sled dogs.
You will find the location even if you forget the central park map. Apple Maps and Google Maps easily locate the place.
Address: East Drive at 67th Street
12. Watch Performances At Central Park Summerstage
For most people, the best part about summer in New York is the Central Park Summer stage. It is an outdoor performing arts festival that includes music, dance, and other performances.
Performances usually take place between May to October. Check out upcoming shows and their ticket from their website, the City Parks Foundation. They also provide nearly eighty free and benefit shows each year.
Address: Rumsey Playfield, specifically at E 71st St and East Drive
13. Stroll Around The Gapstow Bridge
Another beautiful place to wander around is Central Park, with peaceful waterfalls and vibrant flowers. It's one of the best things to do in Central Park.
This garden is divided into three sections. The French-style North Garden has symmetrical flower beds, the Italian-style Center Garden has a bubbling fountain, and the South Garden has colorful annual exhibits.
Address: 62nd Street
14. Ice Skating At Wollman Rink
Winter turns the rink into an outdoor paradise. The place also gained popularity from the Serendipity movie. The rink comes in operation from late October to early April.
You can rent the skates or bring your own. Tickets are available now for fifteen dollars. Free passes are available, but you will need to present a physical copy of your public library card.
Address: 830 Fifth Avenue
15. Watch A Performance At The Delacorte Theater
The Delacorte Theater is an outdoor theater that shows free Shakespearean presentations. The play usually happens every summer.
Visitors adore coming here to see these incredible shows beneath the stars while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Other noteworthy locations to see are the Turtle Pond and the Great Lawn.
Address: 81 Central Park West
16. Sit or Wander Around The Conservatory Garden
This Central Park attraction is home to many variety of trees and flowers. A relaxing place to unwind all the pressure of a busy city. The bed of flowers, trees, and bushes is well-kept.
There are plenty of pathways to lead you through different sections. After the tour sit on the bench and enjoy your picnic while falling deep into the serene beauty.
Address: 1233 5th Ave
17. Brunch At Sarabeth's Central Park South
This Central Park cafe is highly recommended if you are in search of good brunch while in Central Park. Although it is not located directly inside Central Park, it is comfortably located right across the park.
This place has a great taste in authentic ingredients which directly enhance the dining experience. With a cozy atmosphere, welcoming staff, and a wide selection of food, Sarabeth's falls among one of the top Central Park restaurants.
Address: 40 West 59th Street Condominium
18. Snap Pictures At Bow Bridge
The striking Bow Bridge, built from forged iron, joins Cherry Hill and the Ramble. The serene view and exotic atmosphere make it a popular place for photographs.
The bridge has been featured in endless movies where a rowboat passes underneath the lake. For dining and shopping experiences you may visit nearby SoHo. While there, explore some of the things to do at SoHo, New York.
Address: Mid-Park at 74th Street
19. Picnic On The Great Lawn
This vast, open space is ideal for setting up a blanket and enjoying a meal. You may unwind while reading a book or playing frisbee. Bring your favorite bites, sandwiches, or just some drinks.
Oftentimes, the Great Lawn is crowded with friends, family, and people enjoying the sun. It is a wonderful place for taking a break in the lively ambiance of the park.
Address: Between 79th Street and 85th Street
20. Walk Around The Ramble
The Ramble is a wooden and less common section of Central Park. The place is heavily wooden and there are big shattered rocks that give a rough look.
However, there are walking paths to guide your way. With so much wildlife and vegetation you don't feel like you are in a city. The advice board in the beginning states that one should walk on their path, as it is easy to get lost here.
Address: 79th St Transverse
