Features > General > A Stroll Through Central Park
A Stroll Through Central Park
New York City's Central Park is a focus point for all of Manhattan, an 843-acre oasis from the traffic, noise, and chaos of the city outside. Once a site of crime and drug abuse, especially at night, Central Park now operates under theauspices of the Central Park Conservancy, which has kept the park beautiful, clean, and safe since at least the mid-1980's. Here are some of the sites to see as you walk through the park.
SOUTH END: Check out the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain – an iconic Park landmark, used frequently in film and television production, as in the recent Angels in America. Strawberry Fields, at West 72 Street, is named in honor of John Lennon, who was shot a few meters away at his home in the Dakota building. This area is filled with a variety of species of trees and flowers, including the eponymous strawberries, funded by a donation from Lennon's widow, Yoko Ono. The Central Park Zoo – smaller and less impressive than the outer borough varieties – is a wonderful place to visit, especially the adorable penguin and seal areas. Or rent a boat at the lake.
GREAT LAWN: Head through the rocky, foresty Ramble area for Belvedere Castle, a Medieval-looking castle perched upon Vista Rock, the Park's summit. Enjoy great park views and information, and learn about much of the Park's wildlife through a series of exhibits and documentaries. Or head to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, heading from 81st St to 86th St on Fifth Avenue, with its back in the park itself. Around the back of the museum, there is suitable grass for a picnic, with the glass back walls of the museum allowing you to gaze straight into some exhibits.
THE RESERVOIR – The “Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir” is a great place for a stroll or adventure, featuring a 1.58 mile track around the border of the reservoir for jogging or walking and enjoying the glamorous views of the city. Other playgrounds in this area, like the Safari, Wild West, or Ancient Playgrounds (Central Park West at 91st, 93rd, and Fifth at 86th , respectively) are good places for the kids.
NORTH END – The Harlem Meer is a gorgeous 11-acre lake that serves as one of the nicest natural landmarks in New York. And be sure to check out the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center further north.
ALSO: Consider a carriage ride with one of the horse-drawn carriages – expect to pay $34 for 20 minutes and $54 for forty-five. It's touristy, but romantic and worth it.
By Tara Isabella Burton
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