Visiting Central Park means going to meet one of the most famous parks in the world. It is also one of the emblems of the city of New York. Its 341 hectares, located in the Manhattan neighborhood, welcome each year more than 35 million tourists and residents. New Yorkers go there regularly to stroll, take a break on its pretty lawns or for their morning jog.
Central Park: Quite a History
In 1830, New York was home to more than 200 inhabitants, quite a number when you consider that the city has almost no green space. After several complaints to the town hall, the latter accepts the purchase of a wasteland on Manhattan Island. Large projects come to life and several competitions are then open to landscapers and other architects. The goal is to bring together the best ideas and make it a family park, useful for flora and fauna but above all secure.
Long squatted by the poorest inhabitants, the construction of Central Park was not the simplest. It was necessary to relocate all these people and succeed in recovering the entire plot, despite the most recalcitrant. It was not until 1869 that the construction of the park was completed.. Central Park was born! No less than 500 trees have been planted, hundreds of tons of rocks that have been blown up and moved. Unfortunately, 000 workers lost their lives on this gigantic site. The construction of this extraordinary park cost around $ 500 million to the city and to the government.
Although the work was not completed until 1869, Central Park did not yet look what it is today. There was no road since the automobile was not yet accessible to all. There was very little playground and other activities. The zoo only opened its doors in 1964!
Squirrel in Central Park
Central Park must-sees
There are plenty of activities for the whole family in Central Park. No matter what season you decide to visit Central Park, you won't have time to be bored. For lovers of American television series and films, you will undoubtedly recognize several filming locations in the park. You will be able to photograph yourself and fill your souvenir album of the most popular filming locations in this place.
Among them, meet at the Bethesda Fountain, the most famous of New York's fountains. To get there, take The Mall aisle. This place has also been often filmed by the greatest directors! There you will find several food trucks, street performers and other New York talent. All along the main alley, you can take a break and appreciate nature on one of the many benches at your disposal.
La Bethesda Fountain
For a real New York break, come and discover the expanse of greenery: Sheep Meadow. You can picnic there, with a superb view of the tallest buildings in Manhattan. To visit Central Park, you will not be able to miss go around the Reservoir, this huge artificial lake in the heart of the park. But pay attention to the signs indicating the direction of travel!
Reservoir in Central Park
In winter, north of Central Park, you can slide down Lasker Rink ice rink. Surprisingly, in summer, this ice rink turns into a free public swimming pool. Perfect for a refreshing little jump! For a little quieter moment in the middle of this urban forest, come and admire the Belvedere Castle. This small castle is located almost in the middle of Central Park. You will then have a clear view of the Reservoir and the neighboring buildings.
The Central Park Ice Rink
Of course, it will be impossible for you not to surrender au Central Park Zoo, especially if you have children. You will find many species from North America there but also an educational farm for the youngest. Do not hesitate to take a long stroll in this park which has so much to offer you. You will still find several different activities according to the seasons. If you want an unforgettable memory of your visit to Central Park, there are plenty of horse drawn carriages that will take you around the park for a few dollars.
Practical information
Entrance to Central Park is free for all. However, you will find entertainment or paying activities depending on what you want to visit. Access for disabled people is very easy. In winter some paths are even cleared of snow to facilitate the passage of strollers and wheelchairs.. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m., which gives you time to stroll!
Winter in Central Park
You can visit Central Park with a guide, on foot or even by bike. To do this, consider booking your guided tour on the official Central Park website. In summer, you may have the chance to attend one of the many free or paid concerts on Summerstage's legendary open-air stage. Be sure to check out the planned events on the official Central Park website before heading there. To visit Central Park properly as well as the Zoo, plan a minimum full day!
To get to Central Park
Two metro stations serve Central Park:
- South : 5th Avenue / 59 St station served by the N, R and Q lines
- At the South West : Colombus Circle station served by lines 1, 2, A, B, C and D
Address : 5 Ave to Central Park W, 59 St To 110 St, 10019 New York
Central Park Zoo
He moves open every day, consult the timetables at the time of your stay as they vary with each season.
Tarifs du Zoo de Central Park, in 2019:
- Adults (13 years old and over): $ 19,95
- Senior (over 65): $ 16,95
- Children (3 to 12 years old): $ 14,95
- Toddlers (up to 3 years old): Free
Address : 64th St and Fifth Ave, 10021 New York
Visiting Central Park during your stay in New York is therefore a must! This green corner in the heart of Manhattan will offer you a moment of relaxation, very appreciable for young and old. Have you ever taken a break in Central Park?
