Discover Central Park: Top Sights and Things to Do in New York’s Iconic Park

Page Index – Discover Central Park: Top Sights and Things to Do in New York’s Iconic Park

1. - Size of Central Park
2. - The Birth of Central Park
3. - Video Central Park & Zoo
4. - Things to Do in Central Park
5. - Walking Tour in Central Park
6. - Main Attractions Inside Central Park
7. - North Woods – The Wild Heart of Central Park
8. - Map of Central Park and Surroundings

Size of Central Park

Central Park spans an area of approximately 3.41 square kilometers (about 843 acres). It stretches lengthwise from 59th Street in the south to 110th Street in the north, and widthwise from Central Park West to Fifth Avenue. With a total length of over 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and a width of about 800 meters, it is the largest green space in Manhattan and one of the most iconic urban parks in the world. Inside the park, visitors can explore 58 miles (about 93 km) of walking trails, 36 ornamental bridges, several man-made lakes, woodlands, and expansive meadows. Its vast size truly makes it a city within the city.

The Birth of Central Park

Central Park is a green oasis in the heart of Manhattan, the city’s largest park, designed for the recreation of New Yorkers and visitors. While it may appear natural, the entire landscape was carefully planned and constructed according to the winning design by architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux.

In 1856, the City of New York purchased most of the land — then barren and covered with rock outcrops, shrubs, and even a landfill — for $5 million. Two years later, in 1858, the design by Olmsted and Vaux was officially selected and construction began. During the first 20 years, nearly 10 million cartloads of soil were moved to shape artificial lakes, hills, valleys, and tree-lined avenues.

Today, Central Park welcomes over 25 million visitors annually and is considered one of the greatest achievements in American urban planning. Since 1980, the park has been maintained and operated by the Central Park Conservancy, a non-profit organization working in partnership with the city.

Video Central Park & Zoo

Things to Do in Central Park

Central Park is the perfect destination to enjoy all four seasons in New York City. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities suited for all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for a romantic stroll, family fun, or a new way to explore the city, this green oasis has something for everyone.

Rent a bike
One of the most popular ways to discover the park is by bicycle. With more than 6 miles (10 km) of bike paths, you can explore the entire park comfortably and at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll pass iconic spots like the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the Great Lawn, and the Alice in Wonderland statue. We recommend stopping often—every turn reveals something new, from charming bridges and fountains to postcard-worthy views.

Rent a rowboat
During the warmer months, enjoy a romantic ride in a classic rowboat from the Loeb Boathouse, located on The Lake, Central Park’s most famous body of water. Glide beneath the enchanting Bow Bridge, a cast-iron bridge from 1862 that has become one of the park’s most photographed landmarks, featured in countless films and TV series. Pro tip: rowing at sunset is a magical and unforgettable experience—perfect for couples!

Go ice skating in winter
In the colder months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, and the historic Wollman Rink becomes one of the city’s top seasonal attractions. Located in the southern part of the park, it has been featured in iconic films such as Serendipity, Love Story, and Home Alone 2. Skating here, with the Midtown skyline in the background, offers a quintessentially romantic and festive New York experience.

And that's just the beginning! Central Park is also:

• A paradise for runners: Shaded trails and the famous Reservoir Loop attract joggers from all over, including Fred Lebow, founder of the New York City Marathon.
• An ideal picnic spot: Sheep Meadow and the Great Lawn are perfect for relaxing with family and friends, especially in spring and summer.
• A live music venue: In summer, Central Park hosts free concerts and performances as part of the SummerStage festival.
• An open-air gym: Yoga, tai chi, bouldering, beach volleyball, and even dance classes take place in various areas of the park on a regular basis.

If you're into photography or film, every corner of the park has cinematic charm. Central Park has served as the backdrop for over 300 movies—holding a world record. Walking through the park means retracing the steps of Hollywood legends, from Audrey Hepburn to Robert Redford.

Walking Tour in Central Park

Main Attractions Inside Central Park

Central Park is filled with iconic landmarks, monuments, and scenic corners that deserve a closer look. Beyond the greenery and romantic lakes, the park houses true architectural and symbolic gems—each with its own story, charm, and unique atmosphere.

• Belvedere Castle
  Built in 1869 atop Vista Rock, the park’s highest natural point, this small Victorian-Gothic castle offers one of the best panoramic views of Central Park. Originally created as a decorative lookout, it now hosts a weather station operated by the National Weather Service. "Belvedere" means "beautiful view" in Italian, and it’s the perfect spot for photos of Turtle Pond and the Great Lawn below.
• Strawberry Fields
  A peaceful tribute to John Lennon, located near the Dakota Building where the artist was tragically killed in 1980. At its heart lies the famous "Imagine" mosaic, a gift from the city of Naples that reflects Lennon’s message of peace. Every day, fans and visitors leave flowers, letters, and even guitars here. The area is officially designated a "quiet zone."
• Conservatory Garden
  A serene, flower-filled oasis in the northern part of the park, accessible from Fifth Avenue at 105th Street through the majestic Vanderbilt Gate, a wrought-iron masterpiece originally from a Midtown mansion. The garden is divided into three sections—Italian, French, and English—and is especially magical in spring, when tulips and cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
• Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
  Often referred to as the artistic and architectural heart of the park. This sandstone terrace overlooks the Bethesda Fountain, whose centerpiece is the "Angel of the Waters" statue. The terrace connects to the park’s main walkway, The Mall, a broad, tree-lined promenade that buzzes with street performers, painters, and musicians every day.
• Bow Bridge
  Known as New York’s most romantic bridge, this cast-iron structure with classical detailing is a cinematic icon—seen in films like You’ve Got Mail and Manhattan by Woody Allen. It connects the wooded Ramble area to the wide open lawns around The Lake, the park’s most photographed body of water.
• Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
  Spanning over 106 acres, this vast body of water lies at the heart of the park. Named after the former First Lady in 1994—who often jogged here—the 1.6-mile running track around the reservoir is popular with runners, photographers, and birdwatchers alike. The skyline reflections at sunset are especially breathtaking.
• Shakespeare Garden
  A tranquil corner reminiscent of the English countryside. This garden features plants and flowers mentioned in Shakespeare’s works and is adorned with plaques displaying famous quotes. It’s ideal for a peaceful walk or romantic escape, and often hosts outdoor readings and cultural events during the warmer months.
• Balto
  A statue beloved by children. Balto was a sled dog who helped deliver life-saving serum to Nome, Alaska during a diphtheria outbreak in 1925. Sculpted by Frederick G. R. Roth, this monument celebrates animal heroism. Kids traditionally touch Balto’s shiny nose for good luck.
• Alice in Wonderland
  A whimsical bronze statue featuring Alice sitting on a giant mushroom surrounded by characters like the White Rabbit and Mad Hatter. Donated in 1959, it’s one of the park’s most beloved family attractions—designed specifically for children to climb on and play. A joyful tribute to imagination and storytelling in the heart of Manhattan.

These attractions represent just a fraction of what Central Park has to offer. Every visit reveals new hidden corners, romantic benches, whispering tunnels, and natural stages that reflect the energy of New York and its commitment to living in harmony with nature.

North Woods – The Wild Heart of Central Park

Located in the northwest corner of the park, the North Woods span approximately 40 acres, making them the largest of Central Park’s three woodlands. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, this area was meant to evoke the wild landscapes of the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains—creating a truly natural escape just steps from the city.

A roughly one-mile (1.6 km) trail can be completed in about an hour. Along the way, visitors will encounter the enchanting Ravine, a shaded forested valley; The Pool, a serene pond lined with willows; and The Loch, a babbling brook that flows under the picturesque Glen Span Arch and Huddlestone Arch—bridges constructed from massive boulders held together without mortar.

One of the area’s most historic landmarks is Blockhouse No. 1, the second-oldest structure in Central Park. Built in 1814 during the War of 1812, it remains today as a romantic ruin nestled among the trees. Nearby, you’ll also find Nutter’s Battery, a smaller but historically significant overlook that was restored by the Central Park Conservancy in 2014.

Another prominent feature of the North Woods is Great Hill, a tree-shaded slope rising 135 feet above sea level. It offers spacious lawns for picnicking, sunbathing, and relaxing—ideal for families and groups looking for a peaceful spot to unwind.

The North Woods are also a prime destination for birdwatching and nature observation. During spring and fall migration seasons, birders can spot a wide variety of species, and the area's rich biodiversity makes it a living classroom for urban ecology enthusiasts.

Historically, this section of the park was among the last to be developed, between 1860 and 1870. Unlike other parts of Central Park, the North Woods were intentionally left with a more rugged and untamed character, with exposed rock formations and dense vegetation meant to mimic a wilderness landscape.

After falling into neglect during the 20th century, the Central Park Conservancy launched a major restoration effort in the 1990s to rehabilitate the trails, restore the streams, and replant native flora. The work has successfully brought back the vitality and natural beauty of this secluded haven.

Today, the North Woods offer a true sense of serenity—featuring winding trails, hidden waterfalls, trickling streams, and stone arches. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking peace, nature, and a touch of history in the heart of Central Park.

Map of Central Park and Surroundings