Things To Do In Central Park

7 Unmissable Things To Do In Central Park

Taking a stroll through the City’s favourite green space is an essential thing to do in NYC, whether it’s your first time in New York or your 50th. From huge lakes, rolling meadows for picnics, funky musicians and roller skating discos, there’s so many things to do in Central Park.

You could spend an entire year exploring the Park and still find something new and exciting around the corner. Consider this just a starting point of some of the must-do things in Central Park from summer to winter.

Best Things To Do In Central ParkHow do these rankings work?

1. Enjoy a Picnic in Cherry Hill

Named for the cherry trees that bloom here in spring, this slope overlooking the Lake is a great spot for picnics. Grab some gourmet bites to eat from one of the many delis across the city and settle down with your snacks. Perfection!

2. Row Your Way Around the Lake

Boating on the Lake is a great way to spend a lazy summer afternoon in the Park. Row boating on the Lake is available April through October, weather permitting. You can rent row boats and gondolas at the Loeb Boathouse daily, 10am until dusk.

After your jaunt on the water, cool down with a refreshing cocktail at the Loeb Boathouse restaurant.

3. Join a Running Tour

“The best part of the NYC Marathon is taking in all the breathtaking views of the city while your bodily aches and pains dissipate into thin air”, said no one – ever.

Perhaps a 5k running tour will do the trick? Jog as you take in the sights and sounds of Central Park on a fun running tour. It’s a casual run through the Lower section of Central Park, including the Dakota Apartments, Strawberry Fields, Bethesda Terrace, The Ramble and more.

City Running Tours offers tours in almost all five boroughs for runners of all abilities.

4. Go to Shakespeare in the Park

Every summer the Public Theater put on FREE performances at the outdoor Delacorte Theater in Central Park. Sitting underneath the stars watching Shakespeare is one of the best things to do in Central Park. It’s a New York City institution at this stage, but tickets are pretty hard to come by.

We’ve put together a handy guide on how to get Shakespeare in the Park tickets here. 

5. Check out the Minton Tiles in Bethesda Terrace Arcade

The Minton tile ceiling in the arcade of Bethesda Terrace was created in the 1860s.  Made in England, these ceramic beauties would typically be used to cover floors; here, they line the ceiling. It transforms the passage into a colourful jewel box, and there’s usually live musicians playing here. It’s one of the most beautiful sights in the entire park.

Things To Do In Central Park
Image: wfelizola/Flickr

6. Go Ice Skating at Lasker Rink or Wollman Rink

Ice-skating in Central Park is a perfectly picturesque winter experience. It’s a winter tradition for New Yorkers and tourists alike. Spinning around the rink at Christmas is wonderfully festive! Wollman Rink has been featured in films such as Love Story and Serendipity.

Or, in the warmer months, Lasker Rink melts and becomes Lasker Pool, an equally pretty place to swim, right in the middle of Central Park.

Things To Do In Central Park

7. Put Your Skates on for Roller Disco! 

Every Saturday and Sunday at 2.45pm, DJs provide the soundtrack; you just need to show up to the Skate Circle north of Sheep’s Meadow, strap on skates and let the good times roll. What better way to kickstart your weekend, right?

Things To Do In Central Park

Sarah Clayton-Lea

Co-founder of Big 7 Travel, Sarah created the company through her passion for championing the world's best food and travel experiences. Before her career in digital media, where she previously held roles such as Editor of Food&Wine Ireland, Sarah worked in the hospitality industry in Dublin and New York.

Contact [email protected]

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