Places / Park / Manhattan

On the MUSEENYC M ListOn the MUSEENYC M ListThe M List — one we'd cross the city for, and keep going back to. See the list →

9.9 / 10

Central Park

843 acres of engineered wilderness that the rest of the city was built around.

MUSEENYC

Where
Central Park, Manhattan Open in Google Maps ↗
Cost
Free
Good with
Solo · A date · Groups · Family
Go when
Weekday mornings, before the loop fills up
Website
www.centralparknyc.org

Everything in it was put there on purpose: the meadows, the ponds, the rocky outcrops that look like the island simply came that way. Olmsted and Vaux drew it in 1858 and the city grew up around the edges. It is easy to get lost in, and the beauty is spread evenly enough that getting lost is the recommendation rather than the risk.

What to know

It’s large enough that “meet me in Central Park” is not a plan. Pick a landmark — Bethesda Terrace, the Bow Bridge, the Ramble, the Reservoir loop. The northern end above 97th is quieter than anything below it and just as good.

Central Park, in short

Where is Central Park?

Central Park is in Manhattan, New York City.

Is Central Park free?

Central Park is free — there is no admission charge.

When is the best time to visit Central Park?

Weekday mornings, before the loop fills up.

Who is Central Park good for?

Central Park is good for going on your own, a date, groups and families.

Where it is

What else is nearby →

Central Park, Manhattan. Directions in Google Maps ↗

More across the city

9.7Hudson River GreenwayTrailOn the MUSEENYC M ListThe most scenic ride in New York — get lost on it, and the George Washington Bridge never seems to get closer.