Central Park is unique in the world, one of the most photographed and filmed places in the world and the green lung of New York. The landscape was designed by Grederick Law Olmster and the English architect Calvert Vaux, who won a competition in 1857 organized by the city government.
This is a little guide to visiting Central Park in a day or half a day if you're traveling quickly. Needless to say, there is far more to see (including a statue of Giuseppe Mazzini). In the meantime, enjoy the indicated beauties of the world's most famous park, all of which are listed on the landscape map at the end. The park is free to visit and Central Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m.
1) The Gapstown pond and bridge
The southeastern tip of the park, right by the Plaza Hotel and the Apple Store, is probably the first place you'll go. The most striking thing that will immediately catch your eye is the pond or smallest lake in the park. There you can take wonderful pictures with the skyscrapers in the background. Many varieties of birds and turtles are often found at the pond. The Gapstown Bridge is worth visiting. Built in 1896, entirely of stone, it is tempting to get away from the modern capital and immerse yourself in a medieval scene.
2) The Central Park Zoo
It is a small zoo, very old, opened in 1860. Nice especially if you are visiting the city with children , the cost of the ticket is $18 for adults and $13 for children up to 12 years old. It's a great opportunity to see sea lions, penguins, bears, etc. Here is the map of the zoo.
3) Carousel
Now don't tell me you're too old or too cool to ride a carousel horse. This carousel was assembled here in 1951 and is a unique experience, especially if you have a small child or the child in tow. Among other things, this carousel is mentioned in the controversial novel “The Catcher in the Rye,” Salinger's literary masterpiece. $3.25 USD per ride.
4) Statue of Balto
Balto is one of the most famous dogs in the world. In 1925 there was a diphtheria epidemic in Alaska and Balto was the lead dog of the last sled dog team that transported the serum from Nenana to Nome, where the epidemic broke out . A dog relay covered over a thousand kilometers in five days, a heroic undertaking. Balto, as already mentioned, led the sleigh team that covered the final section of the route. At 5:30 a.m. on February 2, 1925, Balto arrived on Front Street in Nome, Alaska. He became famous. This statue commemorates him and all other four-legged friends.
5) Sheep Meadow - Sheep Meadow
A large meadow, open from April to October, that invites you to have a picnic with a fantastic view of the skyscrapers. I bet you've never thought about having a picnic in New York, but you should, especially if the weather is nice. There is also a statue of Giuseppe Mazzini, but I'll leave it to you to figure out where to find that in the meadow.
6) Bethesda Terrace and Bethesda Fountain
The statue that can be seen in the center of the fountain is one of the more famous in New York because it is of Emma Stabbins , the first woman to have a sculpture made and exhibited in New York. The art, at the time, was a male domain in New York. It was installed in 1873, inaugurated in front of the famous terrace with arches. Today a venue favored by street artists, performances and outdoor concerts.
7) Cherry Hill
Beautiful square with a fountain in the middle, so called mainly because of the cherry trees. During the flowering period, the traditional Japanese flower festival is celebrated here.
8) Strawberry Fields
Perhaps this is the main attraction of Central Park: Strawberry Fields . This part of the park is dedicated in memory of John Lennon , who was assassinated just steps from the memorial in 1980 at the foot of the building where he lived, the North Dakota. The mosaic in the center was assembled by Neapolitan potters and then donated to the city of New York.
9) The lake
Romantic place par excellence, in the background of which you can see the two towers of the San Remo building. For $12 an hour, with an extra 15 minutes being $3 more each, you can take a romantic boat ride on the lake . By the way, there is also the option to take a gondola ride with Gondolista Andres Garcia.
10) Ladies Pavilion
The most beautiful panoramic views of The Lake are from here. Sometimes overrun with couples for photoshoots, it's mostly a quiet place. Many people have said YES here. The Pavilion, Victorian style, originally built in 1871 but has been renovated several times.
11) Bow Bridge - Bow Bridge
Legend has it that no woman has ever turned down a marriage proposal on Bow Bridge. Here you also have a wonderful view of the towers of San Remo. The bridge was completed in 1862 and is the longest bridge in Central Park at 26 meters.
12) Alice in Wonderland
Needless to say, if you have children, you must bring them to this place. The statue was placed here in 1959 for children and was a donation from philanthropist George Delacorte . Alice in Wonderland, is not a normal book, Alice in Wonderland is the number one book for children, the most famous of all time, that even today, thanks to the films, has great success. Not to be missed.
13) Shakespeare Gardens
It is a small garden where you can find the plants and flowers that appear in the works of the great English playwright and to whom we owe the garden's name. Remember that in summer the works of Shakespeare are performed on stage at the Delacorte Theater, just a short walk from this garden. Tickets are free but sell out immediately. You can still try it. CLICK
14) Belvedere Castle and Turtle Pond
A dream, a fairy tale. How else could you define this castle? Observing Manhattan from a distance from a Victorian building designed in 1865 by Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mold . It feels strange to write these lines, it feels even stranger to stand there. It is also a weather station, but above all a fantastic place that is worth a visit. Various species of turtles gather around the pond, another magical and enchanted place located right next to the castle: Turtle Pond.
15) Great Lawn
Although it is located a bit to the north and many of you will find it a little more difficult to get there, especially if you start at the south peak of the park. This lawn is the largest in Central Park, with 8 softball fields. Ideal for al fresco dining.
16) Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
Fantastic reservoir that liberates the view with its huge space. A view from the north to the south is the most beautiful impression. One-seventh of Central Park is occupied by this water supply. The The most famous jogging route is two and a half kilometers long, often used by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to run in the morning.
17) Huddlestone Arch
Stone arch, the blocks are held together by being pressed against each other. A little gem designed in 1866 that you can enjoy if you stay in the northern part of the park.
18) Park facts
1. Central Park is the largest public park in the United States. It is spread over 342 hectares and has an area of about 340 hectares. This makes it the perfect place to explore, relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
2. There are many popular attractions in Central Park including The Great Lawn, Belvedere Castle, The Mall, Central Park Zoo and Jackie Onassis Reservoir.
3. Central Park is a green oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle of Manhattan. A walk or bike ride will take you away from the noise of the city.
4. The park's many activities and events, from the Social Good Summit to the Central Park Conservancy Film Festival, offer something for everyone. From free concerts to free admission days, Central Park is the perfect destination for your next vacation.
19) What makes Central Park unique?
Central Park is not just any green space; It is a miracle of nature and technology. From man-made lakes, monuments and bridges to natural meadows, wetlands and forests, Central Park has something for everyone. Here are some of the things that make Central Park unique:
1. Central Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, two of the world's greatest landscape architects. This design has been admired and celebrated for over 150 years.
2. Central Park is one of the most visited parks in the world. It is estimated that over 37.5 million people visit the park each year.
3. Central Park is home to a variety of wildlife including birds, turtles, fish and more.
4. Central Park is a place to relax and unwind from the busy streets of Manhattan. You can take a quiet walk, watch birds or enjoy a picnic with friends or family.
5. Central Park has a variety of activities and features that make it unique. From theater performances to outdoor cinemas to concerts to art installations and more, Central Park has something for everyone.
20) Tips for your visit
- Take some time to explore: Don't just stick to the main attractions, take some time to wander around and explore the different areas of the park. There is something new to discover on every corner!
- Don't forget to bring snacks: Packing snacks and a picnic lunch will help make your visit budget-friendly while giving you a break to rejuvenate and recharge.
- Get up early: Be the first one in the park to get the best view! The park is usually full, but you can grab some prime spots early in the morning before they get crowded.
- Take time to enjoy nature: In a busy world like New York City, spending time in nature is a priceless experience. Take a break and connect with the planet and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells that nature has to offer.
- Bring a camera or charge your cell phone! Central Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world, so don't forget to bring a camera to capture the memories.
1 comment
Im Central Park, in einem Restaurant auf der Terrasse neben dem See hat ein Mädchen aus Holland meine verlorenen Ohrringe wieder gefunden. Welch ein Wunder in einem wunderbaren riesigen Park!
Allein in New York, es war eine tolle Reise, auch habe ich einen Bekannten beim Apple store wieder getroffen!!