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Description
One of the world's most iconic green spaces, Central Park, is an 843-acre wonderland filled with rolling meadows, boulder-studded outcroppings, European-style gardens, a lake, a reservoir, an outdoor theater, a memorial to John Lennon, a charming waterside eatery, and the famous Alice in Wonderland statue. Highlights include the 15-acre Sheep Meadow, where thousands of visitors gather on sunny days; Central Park Zoo; and the birdwatcher's paradise of the Ramble. In warm weather, visitors can enjoy free concerts on the Great Lawn and the Shakespeare in the Park performances at Delacorte Theater. Other attractions include the Shakespeare Garden between 79th and 80th Streets, which offers an incredible skyline view.
The history of Central Park dates back to the 1860s and '70s when it was created by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. It was designed to serve as a leisure space for all people living in New York City regardless of class, color or creed. Although it is the fifth largest park in NYC, it makes up for its size with its democratic vision and breathtaking expanse - a remarkable feat of engineering. The land was acquired through eminent domain from settlements like Seneca Village, a free Black community.
This success spawned Olmsted's career, with commissions from Buffalo to San Francisco and from the manicured grounds of the Biltmore Estate to the Atlanta parks. Central Park is also a favorite filming location, appearing in movies like Hair, When Harry Met Sally, Enchanted and The Muppets Take Manhattan. Its skyline is full of iconic buildings, from the Dakota Building to the Central Park Tower.
Today, Central Park is a beloved attraction, where visitors can find activities for all seasons. In summer, there is fishing, camping and picnicking, while winter brings snowstorms, cross-country skiing and sledding. The lake, Bethesda Fountain, and the Loeb Boathouse are all popular spots, as is the classic Tavern on the Green which has been a city landmark since 1934. No matter the season, Central Park offers something for everyone.
The history of Central Park dates back to the 1860s and '70s when it was created by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. It was designed to serve as a leisure space for all people living in New York City regardless of class, color or creed. Although it is the fifth largest park in NYC, it makes up for its size with its democratic vision and breathtaking expanse - a remarkable feat of engineering. The land was acquired through eminent domain from settlements like Seneca Village, a free Black community.
This success spawned Olmsted's career, with commissions from Buffalo to San Francisco and from the manicured grounds of the Biltmore Estate to the Atlanta parks. Central Park is also a favorite filming location, appearing in movies like Hair, When Harry Met Sally, Enchanted and The Muppets Take Manhattan. Its skyline is full of iconic buildings, from the Dakota Building to the Central Park Tower.
Today, Central Park is a beloved attraction, where visitors can find activities for all seasons. In summer, there is fishing, camping and picnicking, while winter brings snowstorms, cross-country skiing and sledding. The lake, Bethesda Fountain, and the Loeb Boathouse are all popular spots, as is the classic Tavern on the Green which has been a city landmark since 1934. No matter the season, Central Park offers something for everyone.