Magazine
The Top 10 Must-Visit Locations in New York’s Central Park
The reviews are in! Central Park has been crowned America’s top tourist attraction by Travel + Leisure magazine. With 843 acres of breathtaking landscapes meticulously cared for by the Central Park Conservancy—from open lawns to serene water bodies and enchanting woodlands—it’s no wonder over 42 million people visit this urban oasis every year.
Haley Joel OsmentMy favorite place is Central Park, because you never know what you're going to find there.
Whether you are a native New Yorker or visiting the Big Apple for the very first time, Central Park is the perfect place to experience the vibrant energy that defines New York City. And if you are searching for the best spots to soak in this energy, look no further; we have rounded up the top 10 most-searched locations from the Central Park Conservancy website—counting down to the number-one spot!
Stroll the Mall under a canopy of American elms.
The Mall, one of the Park’s most iconic sceneries, was designed as an “open-air hall of reception,” with the curvy branches of American elms forming an awe-inspiring, cathedral-like canopy. Stroll through the southern section to see Literary Walk, where you will be greeted with statues of famous writers.
Connect with the community’s past at Seneca Village.
Before Central Park existed, this area on the west side of the Park between 82nd and 89th Streets was home to Seneca Village: a thriving Black community with three churches and a school. Many residents owned homes, providing residential stability and—for some—the right to vote. When the City decided to build Central Park, they used eminent domain to force the sale of the land. Residents were made to leave by 1857, rendering all traces of the settlement lost to history. In recent years, the Conservancy has undertaken a major effort to conduct new research and interpret Seneca Village.
Wander through the immersive Ramble woodlands.
Need a break from the city? Head to the Ramble, one of the Park’s peaceful woodlands. Designed to resemble the forests of the Catskills and Adirondacks, it offers the rare chance to trade honking cabs and crowded subways for lush woods, meandering streams, and birdsong. Birdwatchers, take note: The Park is an important stop along the Atlantic Flyway, attracting a variety of migratory birds drawn to its wooded landscapes.
Take a photo with Alice and friends!
The whimsical Alice in Wonderland sculpture is a favorite spot for visitors to climb and explore. This popular bronze sculpture was commissioned by George Delacorte as a gift to the children of the City, where it was unveiled by his 11 grandchildren in 1959. They then promptly climbed the sculpture, starting a tradition that continues with children today.
Enjoy a sunny day at Sheep Meadow.
Relax like a true Manhattanite at Sheep Meadow: a 15-acre lawn that’s a local favorite for picnicking, sunbathing, and people-watching (plus snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter!). Fun fact: Sheep grazed there early in the Park’s history—hence the name Sheep Meadow—to keep the grass manicured.
Relive favorite movies at Bethesda Terrace.
At the very center of the Park lies Bethesda Terrace, a beloved spot for visitors and movie fans alike. Featured in films like Elf, Enchanted, The Avengers, and dozens of others, the Terrace boasts an expansive two-level design with the magnificent Bethesda Fountain and the heavily ornamented Arcade.
Visit the Conservatory Garden for a European adventure.
Escape to Europe at the Park’s Conservatory Garden, which features the French-style North Garden, the Italianate Center Garden, and the English-style South Garden. Although the Italian Garden is closed for restoration until spring 2025, you can still immerse yourself in the charm of the French and English Gardens.
Travel back 3,500 years with a trip to the Obelisk.
Known as the oldest outdoor monument in the City, the Obelisk—or Cleopatra’s Needle—was built around 1425 BCE in Heliopolis, Egypt. Visit this monument at Greywacke Knoll to travel back in time.
Pay tribute to John Lennon at Strawberry Fields.
New Yorker, musician, and peace activist John Lennon lived just across the street from the Park and often strolled its paths. Now, visitors from around the world flock to Strawberry Fields to pay homage to Lennon and admire the famous Imagine mosaic and international garden of peace.
Explore an unexpected treasure: Belvedere Castle.
From hidden castles to stunning cityscapes, Central Park truly has it all. Belvedere Castle sits atop Vista Rock—the second highest natural point in the Park—offering panoramic views of Turtle Pond, the Great Lawn, the Ramble, and the cityscape all around you.
Though we’ve reached the end of our top 10 must-visit locations in Central Park, the adventure is just beginning. Whether it’s your first time in the Park or your 1,000th, go explore these sites, because there is always more to discover. Tag us on social media @centralparknyc to share your favorite spots!
Jenny Schulte is the Senior Marketing Writer & Editor at the Central Park Conservancy.
