Central Park, New York City
Facts and practical information
Central Park, an urban oasis nestled in the heart of New York City, stands as a verdant masterpiece stretching across 843 acres. This iconic green space, established in 1857, was designed by landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who envisioned a tranquil haven for the city's residents amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life.
As a sanctuary for nature and recreation, Central Park offers a multitude of attractions, including sprawling meadows, serene bodies of water, and over 50 fountains, monuments, and sculptures. The park's features such as the Bethesda Terrace, the Central Park Zoo, and the historic Carousel draw millions of visitors each year. For those seeking an active visit, there are miles of paths for jogging, biking, and walking.
The park's design is a testament to landscape architecture, with the Ramble offering a more untamed, woodland experience, while the Great Lawn provides a vast open space for picnics and sports. The Central Park Conservancy, a nonprofit organization, manages the park and works tirelessly to maintain its natural beauty and provide a safe, clean environment for all visitors.
Central Park also serves as a cultural hub, hosting live performances at the Delacorte Theater, home to the popular Shakespeare in the Park series, and summer concerts on the Great Lawn. The park's beauty has made it a favorite backdrop for countless films and TV shows, further cementing its status as an essential piece of New York City's identity.
Open year-round, Central Park is as dynamic as the city that surrounds it. Each season paints the park in a new light, from the blossoming of cherry trees in the spring to the famous fall foliage that transforms its landscape into a palette of warm hues.
Central Park – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Metropolitan Museum of Art, Madison Avenue, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Hayden Planetarium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Central Park open?
- Monday 6 am - 1 am
- Tuesday 6 am - 1 am
- Wednesday 6 am - 1 am
- Thursday 6 am - 1 am
- Friday 6 am - 1 am
- Saturday 6 am - 1 am
- Sunday 6 am - 1 am
Which popular attractions are close to Central Park?
How to get to Central Park by public transport?
Bus
- West 86th Street & Transverse Road • Lines: M86 (3 min walk)
- Central Park West / 86th St • Lines: M10 (7 min walk)
Metro
- 86th Street • Lines: A, B, C (9 min walk)
- 81st Street–Museum of Natural History • Lines: A, B, C (10 min walk)