If you enjoy the bustling big-city atmosphere of the Big Apple, you might have overlooked an icon of the city, Central Park. Located right in the heart of New York City, the Park is an oasis of sorts from the urban environment that surrounds it. Attracting over 35 million visitors per year, you’ll hardly be alone if you want to plan a trip to this 843-acre landmark. If you want to go, be aware that while the park is only closed from 1:00 am to 6:00 am, it’s a good idea to plan your visit for the daytime hours, unless you are going to a special evening event, such as a concert. While crime rates in the area have decreased over recent years, it is important to be cautious, especially if you are visiting alone. Central Park is a great place for individuals, groups of friends, families, couples or anyone else! Here are some things to do and see while you’re there:
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Take a walking tour. Central Park is large and can be overwhelming, particularly for a first-time visitor. You can choose from a free tour put on by the Central Park Conservancy, or you could pick a tour that focuses on a topic, such as movies or history. Wear comfortable shoes and bring along or buy a bottle of water. Don’t forget your camera!
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Enjoy a musical performance. Whether you like classical music, popular rock or anything in between, chances are great that there will be a summertime musical event that will be right up your alley. From Bon Jovi to the New York Philharmonic, Central Park is a popular concert venue. You can also relax and and enjoy impromptu or planned performances by street musicians in various areas of the park, as well as planned children’s musical activities several mornings per week.
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Go boating. Rent a boat at the Lake and go for a romantic paddle around the second-largest body of water in Central Park. If you don’t feel like doing the legwork, you can also go for a gondola ride around the Lake. Maybe you would prefer to enjoy the boats from the security of dry land; if that’s the case, head over to the Conservancy Water and watch the sailboats. Pack a picnic lunch for a relaxing afternoon!
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Do something fun for the kids and the kids at heart. Take a whirl on the Central Park Carousel; for only $2, this is an affordable thrill for the little ones. Let them climb around on the Alice in Wonderland statue, a bronze replica of Alice and friends, complete with lines from Jabberwocky. Also, don’t miss the Central Park Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with animals of all sorts.
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Take in some Shakespeare. Despite the name, Shakespeare in the Park does not only feature the works of Shakespeare, but no matter what’s playing, it’s free and worth it! If Shakespeare in the Park is going on when you’re there, you’ll need to wait in line, because tickets are first-come, first-served.
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Just relax. From the dedicated quiet areas to the picturesque settings, you’re sure to be able to find a corner of the park to claim as your own. Put down a blanket, bring along a book to read, and just hang out. You could people-watch, read, daydream, write, draw… the possibilities are endless!
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What are some of your favorite things to do in Central Park? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
