Central Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New York City.
The 843-acre Central Park is the largest public park in New York City and one of the most popular tourist destinations. With more than 35 million visitors each year, it’s no wonder that this green oasis in the heart of Manhattan is one of the most popular places to visit.
There are so many things to do in Central Park, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Central Park:
1) Visit the zoo
A visit to the Central Park Zoo is a great way to spend a day in New York City. The zoo has a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears, as well as more exotic creatures like red pandas and snow leopards. There are also plenty of opportunities to learn about the animals and their habitats. The Central Park Zoo is a great place for both kids and adults to enjoy a day in the city.
2) Take a horse-drawn carriage ride
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park and enjoy the scenery of the cityscape. This is a great way to relax and take in the sights and sounds of New York City. The horse-drawn carriage rides are available year-round, weather permitting.
3) Walk or bike around the reservoir
The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is almost 106 acres and lined with a paved path, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous bike ride. There are also plenty of places to stop and take in the stunning views of the cityscape. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city or an invigorating workout, walking or biking around the Reservoir is a great option. Visit biketourscentralpark.com for more details on organised bike tours in Central Park.
4) Have a picnic in the park
One of the best things to do in Central Park is to have a picnic. There are so many beautiful spots to choose from, and it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors. You can bring your own food or purchase something from one of the many food carts in the park. Just don’t forget to pack a blanket or two!
5) Go boating on the lake
There are few things more tranquil than a leisurely boat ride on Central Park’s lake. Start your journey at the boathouse, where you can rent rowboats, canoes, and paddleboats. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even sign up for a guided tour. As you paddle your way around the lake, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like turtles, ducks, and geese. And don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the city skyline.
6) Play tennis or golf
Whether you’re a tourist or a local, Central Park is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors. And what better way to enjoy the park than by playing a game of tennis or golf?
Tennis players will find 12 courts available for use at the park, all of which are first-come, first-serve. If you don’t have your own racket, don’t worry – you can rent one from the court attendant. Or if golf is more your speed, head over to the Driving Range & Mini Golf course. Here you can practice your swing or putt before taking on one of Central Park’s world-famous golf courses.
7) Visit the Conservatory Garden
The Conservatory Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Central Park. It is a 6-acre public garden that was designed in the late 19th century. The garden is divided into three sections, each with its own theme. The North Conservatory Garden is designed in the English style, with a variety of flowers and plants. The South Conservatory Garden is designed in the French style, with fountains and sculptures. The West Conservatory Garden is designed in the Italian style, with a large fountain and an abundance of greenery.
8) See a show at the Delacorte Theater
The Delacorte Theater is a must-see for any theater lover visiting New York City. This open-air theater is located in Central Park and hosts a variety of Broadway-caliber shows each summer. Past productions have included Shakespeare in the Park, The Tempest, and Romeo and Juliet.
Tickets to see a show at the Delacorte Theater are free, but they can be hard to come by. The best way to get tickets is to enter the online lottery, which opens two weeks before each performance. You can also try your luck at the box office the day of the show, but be prepared to wait in line for hours.
No matter how you manage to get tickets, seeing a show at the Delacorte Theater is an unforgettable experience. Sit back and enjoy one of New York’s most beloved summer traditions.
9) Take a nature hike
One of the best ways to experience Central Park is to take a nature hike. There are plenty of trails to choose from, all of which offer different views and experiences. Whether you want to meander through a forest or get a bird’s eye view of the city, there’s a hike for you.
Here are some of the best trails:
The Ramble: This 38-acre woodland is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Ramble is home to over 250 species of birds, so it’s also a great spot for bird-watching.
The North Woods: If you’re looking for a challenge, tackle the North Woods. This hilly 7-mile trail will take you through forests, streams, and meadows.
10) Go ice skating in the winter
Although Central Park is most famous for its warm weather activities, like picnicking and playing in the playgrounds, it can be just as enjoyable in the winter. If you’re looking for something to do in the park when it’s cold out, why not go ice skating?
The Wollman Rink is a great place to skate, and it offers breath-taking views of the cityscape. You can also skate at the Lasker Rink, which is smaller but still a lot of fun. If you’re feeling competitive, you can even join one of the park’s many hockey leagues.
So bundle up and enjoy a winter day skating in Central Park!
