Attractions in Central Park

Below you will find a list of all major attractions located in Central Park. Each attractions is ranked by popularity and accessibility. You will also find various interesting facts about Central Park and small tips and tricks.

Hamilton Monument

Among the many attractions in the park is the Hamilton Monument, a tribute to one of America's founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton. The monument is located near West Drive in the northern part of the park, just south of the Great Hill and across from the Conservatory Garden.

Alexander Hamilton was a statesman, politician, and economist who played a key role in shaping th...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 80%

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Cherry Hill

Welcome to Cherry Hill, one of the most beautiful spots in Central Park! Named after the cherry trees that bloom in the springtime, this picturesque hill is located near the Lake and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Cherry Hill has a rich history that dates back to the park's creation in the mid-1800s. It was originally designed as a scenic overlook, with wi...

Accessibility 80%

Popularity 85%

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Central Park Zoo

Welcome to the Central Park Zoo, a must-see attraction in the heart of New York City! Located on the southeast corner of Central Park, this world-renowned zoo is home to over 130 species of animals from around the world.

History of the Central Park Zoo
Founded in 1860, the Central Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. It was originally created as a mena...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 95%

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Shakespeare in The Park

Shakespeare in the Park is an event held annually in New York City's Central Park. This free outdoor theater experience was created by Joseph Papp in 1962 with the aim of making theater more accessible to everyone. The event takes place at the Delacorte Theater, which is located near the Great Lawn and Turtle Pond. The theater has been renovated over the years, and it now ...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 90%

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Still Hunt

The Still Hunt is a bronze sculpture located in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's American Wing, but it also has a connection to Central Park. The sculpture depicts a crouching panther about to pounce on its prey, frozen in time and captured in exquisite detail by the artist, Edward Kemeys.

Interestingly, the Still Hunt was originally installed in Central Park in 1883 as p...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 90%

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Tavern on the green

Tavern on the Green is a famous restaurant located in Central Park that is well known for its delicious food, beautiful setting, and rich history. Originally built in the 1870s as a sheepfold, the building was later transformed into a restaurant in 1934 by Robert Moses. It quickly became a popular destination for both New Yorkers and tourists alike, serving classic America...

Accessibility 98%

Popularity 90%

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The Great Lawn

Welcome to The Great Lawn, one of the most iconic and beloved attractions in Central Park! This vast green space is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature in the heart of the city.

Located in the center of the park, The Great Lawn spans over 55 acres and is surrounded by stunning views of the New York City skyline. It's a popular destination for locals ...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 90%

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The Ramble

Welcome to the Ramble, a magical woodland escape within the heart of Central Park! With winding paths, scenic views, and an abundance of wildlife, it's no wonder that the Ramble is a favorite among park-goers. This 36-acre woodland area is a haven for bird watchers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Ramble was designed to be a naturalistic woodland with rustic pat...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 95%

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Umpire Rock

Umpire Rock is one of the hidden gems of Central Park that is often overlooked by visitors, but it is definitely worth a visit. Located in the northern part of the park, this large granite outcropping provides a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.

The rock's name comes from its use as an umpire stand for baseball games in the late 19th century. However, its histor...

Accessibility 84%

Popularity 92%

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Wollmane Wink

Wollman Rink is one of the most beloved winter destinations in New York City, located in the heart of Central Park. The rink offers a picturesque setting for ice skating, with sweeping views of the city skyline as a backdrop. With its prime location in the middle of the park, it is a perfect spot to enjoy the winter atmosphere of Central Park.

The rink is open from late O...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 92%

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Bow Bridge

Welcome to one of the most iconic and romantic spots in New York City – the Bow Bridge in Central Park! This beautiful bridge has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.

Designed by Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould, the Bow Bridge was completed in 1862 and is one of the most photographed and film...

Accessibility 95%

Popularity 90%

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Belvedere Castle

Welcome to Belvedere Castle, a historic landmark nestled in the heart of Central Park. Originally built in 1869 as a Victorian Folly, Belvedere Castle has since become an iconic attraction in New York City, drawing visitors from all over the world.

Located atop Vista Rock, one of the highest points in Central Park, Belvedere Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the s...

Accessibility 80%

Popularity 98%

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Bethesda Fountain

Welcome to Bethesda Fountain, one of the most iconic landmarks in Central Park! Located at the center of Bethesda Terrace, the fountain is a beloved attraction and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the park.

Designed by Emma Stebbins, the fountain was dedicated in 1873 and depicts the Angel of the Waters, a winged female figure symbolizing purity, as she bless...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 50%

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Strawberry Fields

Welcome to the peaceful and reflective Strawberry Fields in Central Park, a tribute to one of the most beloved musicians of all time, John Lennon. This beautiful 2.5-acre site located in the West Side of Central Park, is a perfect place for music lovers, peace activists, and all those who want to pay their respects to this legendary artist.

Strawberry Fields was named aft...

Accessibility 92%

Popularity 94%

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Heckscher playground

Welcome to Heckscher Playground, a fun-filled destination for kids and families located in the heart of Central Park! This playground is one of the largest in the park, covering an area of more than 1.8 acres, and offers a wide range of activities and amenities that are sure to keep children entertained for hours.

Named after August Heckscher, the former Parks Commissione...

Accessibility 78%

Popularity 85%

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Chess and Checkers

Chess and Checkers House is a charming building located in the heart of Central Park. This historic house, built in 1952, was originally used as a location for playing checkers and chess, which is how it got its name. Since then, it has become a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.

The house is situated near the southeast corner of Central Park and is open to...

Accessibility 85%

Popularity 95%

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Columbus Circle

Welcome to Columbus Circle, a bustling and historic intersection located at the southwestern corner of Central Park. This iconic landmark is not only a popular tourist destination, but also a hub of transportation, commerce, and entertainment in New York City.

Columbus Circle was named after Christopher Columbus and his famous exploration of the Americas. It was first des...

Accessibility 94%

Popularity 95%

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Conservatory Garden

Welcome to one of Central Park's most enchanting hidden gems, the Conservatory Garden! This six-acre formal garden is located on the park's east side, and it offers a peaceful oasis amid the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Conservatory Garden is divided into three distinct sections, each with its own unique charm. The Italian Garden is the northernmost section, featuri...

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Popularity 85%

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Delacorte Theater

Welcome to the Delacorte Theater, one of the most iconic performing arts venues in New York City and a beloved feature of Central Park. The open-air theater is nestled in the heart of the park, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for theatergoers.

Originally built in 1962, the Delacorte Theater was named after its benefactor, George T. Delacorte Jr. The theater...

Accessibility 80%

Popularity 90%

You'll see on

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Sheep Meadow

Sheep Meadow is one of the most iconic and beloved destinations in Central Park, and for good reason. This expansive 15-acre lawn is the perfect place to relax, play games, have a picnic, or just soak up the sun and the stunning views of the surrounding park.

Located in the heart of Central Park, Sheep Meadow is surrounded by towering trees, rolling hills, and picturesque...

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Popularity 95%

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Swedish Cottage

Nestled within Central Park is the charming Swedish Cottage, a small cottage-style building that was originally built in Sweden in the late 19th century, then disassembled and brought to the United States as part of the 1876 Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia. After the exhibition, it was moved to its current location in Central Park.

Today, the Swedish Cottage serves ...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 90%

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The Carousel

The Carousel in Central Park is a beloved attraction that has been enchanting visitors for generations. Located in the heart of the park, this beautifully restored 1908 carousel is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area.

The Carousel was originally built by Charles I.D. Looff, one of the most renowned carousel makers of the early 20th century. It features ...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 90%

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The Lake

The Lake is one of the most picturesque spots in Central Park. Located in the center of the park, the 20-acre man-made lake is a popular destination for visitors looking for a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the lake is surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, offering stunning views in every direction.

Vi...

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Popularity 90%

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The Loeb Boathouse

The Loeb Boathouse is a picturesque destination in the heart of Central Park, located near the eastern edge of the park at the corner of East 72nd Street and Park Drive North. It is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike, offering a range of activities and amenities that make it one of the most iconic landmarks in the park.

Built in 1874 as a boathouse and originall...

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Popularity 90%

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The Mall

The Mall, located in the heart of Central Park, is one of the most iconic and picturesque locations in New York City. This pedestrian walkway, lined with beautiful American Elm trees, stretches from the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain to the entrance of the park at 72nd Street. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the Mall was intended to be a grand promenade ...

Accessibility 85%

Popularity 90%

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The Obelisk

The Obelisk, also known as Cleopatra's Needle, is a unique and fascinating attraction located in Central Park. This ancient Egyptian monument dates back over 3,000 years and was originally erected in Heliopolis, Egypt. In 1877, the Obelisk was gifted to the United States by the Khedive of Egypt as a gesture of goodwill. It was shipped across the Atlantic and finally erecte...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 87%

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The Pool

The Pool is a tranquil body of water located in the northern part of Central Park. It is a favorite destination for those who seek peace and serenity in the bustling city. The Pool is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. It is a popular spot for birdwatchers as well, as the lake is home to a variety of bird species.

Orig...

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Popularity 80%

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The Ravine

Nestled deep in the heart of Central Park, the Ravine is a natural wonder that has been captivating visitors for generations. A secluded, wooded area that spans over 30 acres, the Ravine is a true oasis in the heart of the city, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

The Ravine is home to a ...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 85%

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The Reservoir

The Reservoir, located in the heart of Central Park, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike. This man-made lake covers an area of 106 acres and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Originally built in 1858, the Reservoir was created as part of the Croton Aqueduct system, which supplied fresh water to New York City. Today, it ...

Accessibility 95%

Popularity 90%

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Wagner Cove

Wagner Cove is a hidden gem in Central Park that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of New York City. Located on the western edge of the park near 72nd Street, this charming spot is named after composer Richard Wagner and features a rustic wooden gazebo overlooking a tranquil pond.

The secluded location of Wagner Cove makes it an ideal place to escape th...

Accessibility 89%

Popularity 93%

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Alice in Wonderland

Welcome to Central Park, where the enchanting tale of Alice in Wonderland comes to life in the form of a whimsical bronze statue. Located near East 74th Street, Alice in Wonderland is one of the most beloved attractions in the park, enchanting visitors of all ages.

The sculpture depicts Alice sitting on a mushroom, surrounded by the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, the Dor...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 93%

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Bethesda Terace

Welcome to the heart of Central Park - Bethesda Terrace! As the signature feature of the Greensward plan, Bethesda Terrace is considered to be the center of attention in the park. While nature is considered the soul of the park according to Olmsted and Vaux, they also recognized the need to create a man-made attraction that would serve as the centerpiece of Central Park. A...

Accessibility 90%

Popularity 80%

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