Offering a welcome break from the lights and buzz of the Manhattan concrete jungle, this park is a much loved spot to rest weary feet, stroll and enjoy a picnic.
Central Park is a movie star in its own right, having featured in movies such as “When Harry Met Sally”, “Annie Hall”, “Home Alone 2” and “Sex and the City: The Movie”. Together with hosting some of the most famous musical artists such as Simon & Garfunkel, Central Park is an iconic space of natural beauty known worldwide and adored by native New Yorkers.
Situated between 59th and 110th streets, Central Park first opened its gates to the public in 1857 on just 315 hectares. Today the park spans a staggering 341 hectares and is so extensive that it has its own New York City Police department. Affectionately referred to as “the lungs of New York”, Central Park breathes an air of natural beauty into the chaos of downtown Manhattan, boasting areas of outstanding natural beauty including an expanse of woodland.
Central Park is a space for all seasons, with different activities come rain or shine. For walking or running enthusiasts there are 93 Kilometres of walking trails throughout the Park. During the summer months, horse-drawn carriages wait to whisk romantics off around the park, and in the autumn, rowing boats can be hired from the nearby boathouse. Winter in Central Park could not be more magical. The award-winning zoo is open all year round and visitors can enjoy outdoor skating on one of the park’s two ice rinks.
For the History enthusiasts and sightseers, Central Park offers a diverse array of stunning architecture and untouched historical monuments. The Arsenal, built in the mid-1850s resembles a fairy tale castle, but is in fact a munitions supply depot for the New York State National Guard. The many statues and monuments dotted around the park honour well-known characters Hans Christian Andersen and Christopher Colombus. After a long stroll around the Park, grab a bite to eat from the local vendors selling hot dogs, pretzels, and ice cream and find a sunny spot on the great lawn to relax.
Because of its ideal location between the Upper West Side and Upper East Side neighbourhoods, Central Park is easily accessible by subway or by bus.
