Central Park is an 843-acre (about 3.41 km²) green space in the heart of Manhattan, and the first major landscaped public park in the United States, designed in 1858 by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. Familiar from countless films and TV shows, it draws nearly every visitor to New York with landmarks such as Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, and Strawberry Fields. The nonprofit Central Park Conservancy cares for the park; admission is free, and as of 2026 it is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. year-round. Because it is so large, few see all of it in a day, so pick a handful of sights and enjoy a relaxed stroll.
Bethesda Terrace and Fountain — the park's iconic centerpiece and top photo spot; look up at the tiled arcade ceiling below.
Bow Bridge and The Lake — skyline reflections and seasonal rowboat rentals (paid) on the water.
Strawberry Fields and the 'Imagine' mosaic — a memorial to John Lennon.
Belvedere Castle and Turtle Pond — a lookout with views over the park and the Great Lawn.
The Mall and Literary Walk — a stately promenade lined with American elms.
Seasonal draws — Wollman Rink ice skating in winter (paid) and free summer swimming at Gottesman Pool (June 27–September 13, 2026).
Good to know
CautionPedicab (bicycle rickshaw) rides are notorious for inflated 'per-minute, per-person' charges. Agree on a firm total price before boarding, photograph the rate card, and compare drivers.
CautionCostumed characters (Elmo, Mickey, etc.) and people handing you CDs will use a photo or 'gift' to demand a tip. If you're not interested, don't accept anything or engage.
SafetyThe park is generally safe by day, but it closes at 1:00 a.m.; after dark avoid the wooded Ramble and secluded areas and stick to well-lit, busy main paths.
SeasonThe park is huge, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Summers are hot and humid (bring water, a hat, sun protection); winters are cold with frequent snow. Fall foliage usually peaks late October to early November.
RulesEntry to the park is free, but some attractions such as the Central Park Zoo and Wollman Rink charge admission, and prices and hours change—check the official site for the latest before you go. Cycling is allowed only on the designated loop roads.
MannersTipping is customary in the U.S.; carriage rides, pedicabs, and guided tours generally expect a gratuity. Confirm whether a tip is included in the quoted price before using a service to avoid disputes.
Practical info
Multiple subway stations ring the park: Columbus Circle (59th St, A/B/C/D/1) and 5th Ave–59th St (N/R/W) to the south, 72nd/81st/86th St (B/C) to the west, and Central Park North (110th St, 2/3) to the north. The park itself is free and, as of 2026, open daily 6:00 a.m.–1:00 a.m.; visitor centers generally run Wed–Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m., but hours and paid-attraction prices vary, so confirm the latest on the official site before visiting.
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