23 Fun & Cool Things to Do in Central Park
👉 Jump to: Best Things | Cultural Attractions | Family-Friendly | Physical Activities
Living in NYC as a broke student, I learned that visiting Central Park was one of the best ways to enjoy the city without blowing through my bank account.
The massive, 840-acre park runs all the way from the Upper West Side to the Lower East Side. Within that space, there are things to do for all types of visitors and most of them are completely free.
You’ll find activities to keep kids busy all afternoon, calm corners to read a book, and even romantic date spots. Central Park is a match made in heaven for budget travelers staying in New York City.
It is huge though – so grab your map and let’s get you to all the most interesting, fun, and iconic things to do in Central Park.
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23 Best Things to Do in Central Park
Conservatory Garden
Explore 6 acres of the only formal garden in Central Park.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (212)-310-6600 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 8 pm Daily | Entrance: Free
The Conservatory Garden is one of the top activities in Central Park and one of the best things to do in all of NYC. The 6-acre garden is located near the Upper East Side and features an English, Italianate, and French Garden. Fun fact: the entrance to the Conservatory Garden was once the gate to the Vanderbilt Mansion.
If you’re visiting New York in the summer, the Conservatory Garden is a must for its variety of flowers, including lilacs, tulips, and chrysanthemums.
While this is the only formal garden in Central Park, there are other unofficial gardens around. For instance, there’s the Shakespeare Garden that opens every spring until fall. This one is a bit smaller and filled with plant life that Shakespeare mentioned in his works.
The Great Lawn
Join hoards of New Yorkers reading their books on blankets.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am Daily | Entrance: Free
When it’s summer in New York City, local New Yorkers swarm to the Great Lawn in Central Park. As the name suggests, the massive 55-acre space has enough room for everyone who needs to recharge with a bit of sunshine.
Between visiting the famous sites and roaming the city’s neighborhoods, it’s nice to take a moment of peace to read a book and lie on the lawn.
Wollman Rink
Go ice-skating in the winter and rollerskating in the summer.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Changes Monthly | Entrance: Varies
The activities at Wollman Rink will change depending on when you visit New York.
From late November to March, the rink turns into an ice skating wonderland in the heart of the city. The space is converted into the Disco Oasis Roller-Skating Rink when it gets warmer during the summer.
No matter which season you decide to go, it’s a great spot for a date in NYC.
Bow Bridge
Take majestic photos at one of the most popular places to get engaged in NYC.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (212)-310-6600 | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am Daily | Entrance: Free
Have you ever wanted to witness a proposal or wedding while you’re randomly wandering around? Well, the chance of that happening skyrockets significantly when you’re roaming Central Park. Specifically, Bow Bridge.
This is an exceptional location to take some travel photos and encapsulate your time in New York.
Like most things at the park, the Central Park Conservancy manages Bow Bridge. Be sure to check out their website for more details if you want your wedding photos or have proposal plans there.
The Lake
Rent a rowboat or gondola from Loeb Boathouse and take a journey along the waters.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (718) 973-9339 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 9 pm Mon-Sat, 11 am – 8 pm Sun | Boat Rental: $25 per hour
Renting a boat and taking it for a spin on the Lake is a quintessential Central Park activity. Where else can you peacefully row a boat with gigantic skyscrapers in the background?
At the Lake located in Central Park West, you can rent your rowboat from Loeb Boathouse. You’ll have a choice of a rowboat or gondola. At $25 an hour, this is an enchanting and budget-friendly activity that’s perfect if you’re visiting NYC on the cheap. [Source]
After your ride, grab a bite to eat at the Central Park Boathouse. This top-rated NYC restaurant has a perfect view of the Lake and a delicious brunch menu.
The Bethesda Terrace and Bethesda Fountain
Rest for a while at one of the most filmed locations in New York City.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am Daily | Entrance: Free
If there’s one part of Central Park that you’re bound to recognize, it’s the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain. These structures have a long history as stars of the silver screen.
The movies John Wick, Annie Hall, Home Alone 2 (and many more) all have scenes here. You can learn more about this site’s filmography by joining this Central Park TV and Movie Sites Walking Tour that includes a stop at Bethesda Terrace.
If you’re not a movie buff, the Bethesda Fountain and Terrace is just a nice spot to rest for a moment during your Central Park exploration.
Central Park Reservoir
Take in photo-worthy views of the New York skyline.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Sunrise – 1 am Daily | Entrance: Free
Sometimes, traveling in a new city can get tiring, and you just need a place to chill out for a bit. The Central Park Reservoir is an excellent location for that.
Officially named the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the area has lovely views of the NYC skyline at any time of day or year.
Independent Street Vendors
Bring home one-of-a-kind souvenirs from unique vendors around the park.
📍 Multiple Locations | Entrance: Free
Worried you won’t be able to afford a memento from your NYC trip? One of the intriguing street vendors around Central Park might be able to help you out on that front. These sellers carry everything from jewelry and books to original artwork and clothing items.
While they’re scattered randomly around Central Park, the best places to find these vendors are E 59th St and near Columbus Circle. They’re usually right outside of the park’s entrances. These are also good areas to find cheap NYC food under $10.
Cultural Attractions
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Discover over two million pieces at one of the most-visited museums in NYC.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (212)-535-7710 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Sun-Tue & Thu, 10 am – 9 pm Fri & Sat, Closed Wed | Entrance: $30, Adults, Free Under 12, NY residents pay what they wish
Out of all the incredible museums in New York City, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is by far one of the best. Even better, this enormous museum is right in the heart of Central Park East.
There are quite literally millions of pieces to discover at the MET, so it’s a smart idea to join a tour to get the most out of your visit. This Private Guided Tour Metropolitan Museum of Art is customized to your interests, provides artistic insights, and even comes with skip-the-line admission.
When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to take a stroll down Fifth Avenue, which runs alongside the eastern edge of the park. This is one of New York’s most famous shopping streets for luxury goods.
Belvedere Castle
Climb up the staircase of this Gothic fortress for sweeping views over the park.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (332)-213-3947 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Daily | Entrance: Free
Once you’ve smelled the flowers and taken a boat voyage, head over to Belvedere Castle. Built in 1869, the Belvedere Castle embodies a mix of Gothic and Roman architecture.
Visitors are welcome to enter Belvedere Castle free of charge (donations accepted). After walking up its staircase, you’ll be greeted with open views over Central Park. You can even spot other landmarks from here, like the Great Lawn and the Ramble.
The Mall and Literary Walk
Take a stroll among giant trees past statues of literary geniuses and historical figures.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am Daily | Entrance: Free
The next stop on your Central Park itinerary should be the Mall and Literary Walk. As you walk underneath a canopy of American elm trees, you’ll come across statues of historical figures and writers along the way. There are statues of William Shakespeare, Sir Walter Scott, and more.
Strawberry Fields
Check out the Imagine Mosaic Dedicated to John Lennon.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am Daily | Entrance: Free
All lovers of the Beatles must make an obligatory stop at Central Park’s Strawberry Fields. The name, Strawberry Fields, pays homage to one of the band’s most famous songs. People from all over the world come to pay their respects to John Lennon at the Imagine Mosaic here.
If you want more insight into the Beatles and the memorial, consider joining a tour. For instance, this Central Park Walking Tour stops by the Imagine Mosaic.
SummerStage
Catch live concerts from a variety of music genres throughout the summer.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Depends on Show | Entrance: Depends on Show
From late May to late September, Central Park comes alive with performances at their SummerStage. This outdoor music venue holds all types of concerts that range from hip-hop to country.
The cool thing is that many of these shows are totally free to enjoy [source]. Even the ones that require paid tickets are benefits for charity. So, you know your money will be going to a good cause and you’ll get to have fun. You can check out the SummerStage Website for all the upcoming shows and their prices.
Delacorte Theater
Catch a free ‘Shakespeare in the Park’ show, a New York summer tradition.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – Sunset Daily | Entrance: Free
Delacorte Theater is a grand outdoor playhouse in the heart of Central Park. Delacorte is most well-known for its free performances of Shakespeare in the summertime. Every year, two plays are produced. If you’re willing to wait in line on the day of the performance, you can watch a show firsthand.
Even if you’re not in New York City during the summer, it’s still cool to see the theater for yourself. You can even make out Belvedere Castle in the backdrop.
Family-Friendly Things to Do
The Central Park Zoo
Wave hello to sea lions, snow leopards, and sloths – oh my!
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (212)-439-6500 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Mon-Fri, 10 am – 5:30 pm Sat & Sun (Apr 5 – Nov 1), 10 am – 4:30 pm Daily (Nov 2 – Apr 1) | Entrance: $22.95, Adults, $16.95 Under 13
The Central Park Zoo is a favorite stop for many kids. It was definitely a core memory for me when I was growing up. The zoo is home to more than 130 different species – from penguins and sea lions to grizzly bears and snow leopards [Source].
The Tisch Children’s Zoo is a must-see if you’re taking a family vacation. Here, kiddos can feed and pet friendly farm animals like goats, pigs, and sheep. Purchase these Central Park Admission Tickets in advance to make life easier. These will give you access to the main zoo, the Tisch Children’s Zoo, and it even includes a show at their 4-D theater.
👉 Pro Tip: Midtown Manhattan is one of the best places to stay in New York City because it’s so close to everything. Central Park Zoo is right near many major Midtown hotels like the Plaza Hotel and the Peninsula. Check out more Midtown hotels on Booking.com.
The Turtle Pond
Relax at the waterfront and appreciate the little amphibian friends.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am Daily | Entrance: Free
You’ll come to find that Central Park has lots of gorgeous places to kick back and lounge. It’s a necessity amidst the chaos of Manhattan. One of those places is Turtle Pond where you can watch the amphibians and ducks going about their lives. It’s also a favorite spot for kids.
Just make sure you’re visiting during the summer because the animals tuck themselves away out of sight during the colder months.
The Central Park Carousel
Embrace your inner child with a ride on an iconic merry-go-round.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (212)-452-0707 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm Daily | Entrance: $4 per ride
If you’re visiting the park with children, don’t forget to make a stop at the Central Park Carousel. The classic ride has been around for over 100 years and is still going strong. Your kids will have a blast choosing from one of the 50 hand-carved horses to ride on.
Conservatory Water
Sit back and watch the model boat races.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (917)-522-0054 | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am Mon-Sat, 6 am – 12 am Sun | Entrance: Free
The Conservatory Water, commonly called the Model Boat Pond, is a manufactured body of water with a particular purpose. Model boats.
You can rent a model boat at Kerbs Boathouse and get in on the race yourself. Or, you can just hang out on one of the benches around the pond and watch.
🌳 Read Next: 21 Best State Parks in New York
Sheep Meadow
The perfect place to lay out a picnic blanket and enjoy some snacks.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 11 am – 7 pm Daily | Entrance: Free
Sheep Meadow is perhaps the best spot for relaxing in the entire park. Just bring a blanket, snacks, and some good company. You’ll be occupied for hours on end. It sounds simple, but this is actually one of my favorite free things to do in Manhattan.
Plus, Sheep Meadow is less than a 10-minute walk from the New York Philharmonic and Magnolia Bakery on the Upper West Side. So, you’re very close to more potential activities.
Cherry Hill
Catch a glimpse of the cherry trees blossoming from April to May.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am Daily | Entrance: Free
Cherry Hill is a scenic area of Central Park right by the Lake, Bow Bridge, and Strawberry Fields. It features a Victorian-era fountain. However, it’s best known for the labyrinth of cherry trees that pop up each spring. It’s a sight to behold.
The best time to visit New York City to see these pink cherry trees in full bloom is from April to May.
Physical Activities
Rent a Bike or Take a Pedicab Ride
Ride around and see all of Central Park’s attractions with ease.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (212)-664-9600 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 8 pm Daily | Entrance: $39/All-Day for Adult Bikes, $27/All-Day for Children Bikes (Thru Bike Rental Central Park) | 👉 Browse Central Park Bike Tours on Viator
Take it up a notch from exploring Central Park on foot by renting a bike. There are bike paths weaving all throughout the park. It really speeds up the process of seeing every attraction and adds a fun, new element.
There are plenty of bike tours around Central Park available as well. I’d go for this Guided Bike Tour of Central Park. It includes the bike, helmet, and bike lock. Plus, they have gear for adults, children, and accessible hand cycles.
Travelers who just want to relax and take in the scenery can opt for a pedicab ride through the park. This Central Park Pedicab Guided Tour will take you to all the top sites and help you get photos for a reasonable cost.
The Ramble
Embark on a hike through the middle of an urban oasis.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am Daily | Entrance: Free
The Ramble is a 38-acre forested area in the middle of Central Park. It has a bunch of light hiking trails running through it and park-goers can walk along the paths for free.
These trails might not be the most well-known of all the hiking trails in New York. However, The Ramble is a lovely little escape into nature if you’re getting suffocated by the metropolis of New York.
The Ravine
Walk through a nature preserve with waterfalls modeled after the Adirondacks.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – 1 am daily | Entrance: Free
The Ravine in Central Park is a 90-acre nature preserve built in the image of New York’s Adirondacks. It has a few different paths that bring you into a surprisingly secluded natural area.
Keep an eye out for wildlife because it’s a popular location for bird watching. You’ll also be able to check out the Ravine’s long stream called the Loch and multiple waterfalls. You might not have expected to stumble upon waterfalls in New York City. Central Park is full of surprises, though.
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Now you know all the top sites and hidden gems around Central Park. If this is your first time visiting New York, don’t forget to read my New York travel tips before you arrive. Have fun in Central Park!
–Lea Rose Allbaugh contributed to this article.
