Park · Manhattan, New York

Central Park, New York

Central Park, New York
Photo: Christian David, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Central Park was designed in the 1850s as a landscaped retreat for city residents. It includes open lawns, wooded sections, lakes, and formal gardens. Look for the loop path around the reservoir and the stone arches that carry paths over roads.

Updated September 27, 2026On day 6 of Washington DC, Philadelphia and New York in 7 Days

Visiting Central Park, New York: what to know

Tickets
Free entry.
Time needed
Two to four hours for a main loop walk.
Best time
Weekdays in spring or fall.
Getting there
Subway to stations at 59th Street-Columbus Circle or 5th Avenue-59th Street.

New York itineraries with Central Park, New York

Day 6 of Washington DC, Philadelphia and New York in 7 Days

Midtown and Central Park

How Central Park, New York fits into a day.
  1. 9:00Empire State BuildingNew York
  2. 11:30The Metropolitan Museum of ArtNew York
  3. 15:00Central ParkNew York
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Central Park, New York FAQs

Is Central Park safe?

The park is heavily used and patrolled during daylight hours. Standard city precautions apply after dark.

What are the main attractions?

Key spots include Bethesda Terrace, the Mall, Strawberry Fields, and the Great Lawn.

Can visitors rent bikes or boats?

Bike rentals are available at several entrances. Rowboats can be rented at the Loeb Boathouse on the lake.

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