Central Park is one of the most iconic places in New York City. Not only because it’s a 480 acre park inside an industrialized city, but also because it holds so much of what makes New York, New York. When you walk through Central Park, you get to experience both its natural beauty and all the charming characters that come along with it. Depending on the season, you’ll see the dog walkers, the runners, the picnickers, the carriage riders and the thousands of strangers who just haven’t met yet.
So, if you’re planning to visit New York and want to experience what makes the City oh so special, I highly recommend adding Central Park to your list! 480 acres is a lot of park to explore. So, to make it easier for you, I’ve rounded up 5 of the most beautiful places for you to enjoy.
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Bethesda Terrace & Fountain
The Bethesda Terrace & Fountain are two of Central Park’s most beautiful architectural features. The terrace, most famous for its beautiful view and hand tiled ceiling, is flanked by two grand stairways that lead down to the fountain.
The Mall
The Mall is a walkway that is shaded by a luscious canopy of trees. It’s the perfect place to get some shade on a hot summer’s day or admire the golden foliage in the fall.
Belvedere Castle
Did you know there’s a castle in Central Park? As a proud New Yorker, I can’t believe I missed the boat on this one. The two best views are from the top of the castle, which overlooks Manhattan’s eastern skyline and facing the castle, from the opposite side of Turtle Pond.
The Reservoir
The reservoir is a runner’s paradise. There’s a 1.58 mile loop around it, and it’s a great way to enjoy Manhattan’s eastern and western skylines.
Bow Bridge
Bow Bridge crosses over the Lake and is one of the most romantic spots in the Park. In the spring and summer it provides a storybook view of the rowboats on the lake, and in the fall and winter it’s a go to backdrop for holiday and engagement photos.
For more information on all that New York City’s Central Park has to offer visit their official website here. I hope you get to visit one day and fall in love with all of its character and charm as much as I have.
-Kira
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