Here’s a list of the best things to do in Central Park, New York City

Rowing on Central Park lake — GagliardiPhotography / Shutterstock

If you think Central Park is just a big patch of green in the middle of Manhattan, think again. This 843-acre urban escape is packed with history, hidden gems, and iconic experiences that make it one of the most visited urban parks in the world.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, there’s always something new to discover. Let’s cut through the noise and get straight to the must-do activities that make a trip to Central Park unforgettable.

Start with the Classics: Bow Bridge & Bethesda Terrace

You can’t visit Central Park without stopping at two of its most photographed landmarks: Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace. Bow Bridge, with its stunning cast-iron design, spans over The Lake and offers an unbeatable view of the city skyline peeking through the trees.

If you want that Instagram-perfect shot, aim for early morning before the crowds roll in. Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, just a short walk away, is the true heart of the park. The Angel of the Waters statue has been standing here since 1873, and the intricate Minton tiles on the ceiling of the terrace arcade make it one of the most architecturally stunning spots in the city.

Row Your Way to a Perfect Afternoon

Woman rowing in Central Park — Tero Vesalainen / Shutterstock

Renting a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse is one of the most romantic and peaceful ways to experience Central Park. For around $25 an hour, you can paddle across The Lake, soaking in views of Bow Bridge, the dense foliage, and maybe even a few sunbathing turtles.

If you’re feeling a bit more luxurious, you can hire a gondola (yes, Central Park has an authentic Venetian gondola) and let a professional gondolier steer you through the water. Just be sure to go on a sunny day—rain tends to put a damper on the experience.

Get Lost in The Ramble

If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a different world, venture into The Ramble. This 36-acre woodland section of the park was designed to be a “wild garden,” and it delivers. Twisting paths, hidden waterfalls, and over 230 species of birds make it a paradise for nature lovers.

This is also where you’ll find the famous Gill, a small, picturesque stream that feels more like a hidden countryside brook than part of a massive urban park. If you’re into birdwatching, bring binoculars—Central Park is one of the best birding locations in the country.

Hit the Literary Walk and See the Statues

Orange trees in Central Park — Jennifer Griner / Shutterstock

Walking along the Mall is like stepping into an outdoor library. This wide, tree-lined promenade is famous for its towering American elms and the statues of literary greats like Shakespeare, Robert Burns, and Sir Walter Scott.

The southern end of the walk leads to the statue of Christopher Columbus, while the northern end offers a glimpse of Central Park’s less famous but equally charming landmarks, including the Naumburg Bandshell, where live concerts often take place in the summer.

Find Serenity at the Conservatory Garden

If you’re looking for a quieter, less touristy spot, head to the Conservatory Garden on the park’s northeast side.

This six-acre formal garden is divided into three sections: Italian, French, and English. The manicured hedges, seasonal flowers, and stunning fountains make this the perfect spot for a peaceful escape.

Unlike the rest of Central Park, the Conservatory Garden is a designated quiet zone, so you won’t hear the usual city hum—just birdsong and the rustling of leaves.

Go Ice Skating at Wollman Rink (Or Rollerblading in Summer)

Ice skating in Central Park on a winter day — EarthScape ImageGraphy / Shutterstock

If you’re visiting in winter, Wollman Rink is a must. Skating here, with the Manhattan skyline towering above, is an experience straight out of a movie. If you’re not into skating, it’s still worth stopping by just to soak in the atmosphere. In the warmer months, the rink transforms into a rollerblading and biking area, making it a year-round activity hub.

Have a Picnic on Sheep Meadow

On a sunny day, Sheep Meadow is the ultimate picnic spot. Once home to a flock of sheep (hence the name), this massive open field now hosts sunbathers, frisbee players, and groups of friends enjoying a laid-back afternoon.

If you didn’t pack your own food, stop by the nearby Le Pain Quotidien for some fresh sandwiches and pastries. Just be warned—this is one of the most popular lounging spots in the park, so claim your spot early if you want prime real estate.

Catch a Performance at Shakespeare in the Park

One of the best free events in New York City, Shakespeare in the Park takes place every summer at the open-air Delacorte Theater. The productions, hosted by The Public Theater, have featured A-list actors like Meryl Streep, Al Pacino, and Anne Hathaway over the years. Tickets are free, but you’ll need to queue up early or enter the online lottery to snag a seat.

See the Alice in Wonderland Statue (And Touch the Rabbit’s Nose)

Bronze statue of Alice in Wonderland characters — Gregorio Koji / Shutterstock

Kids and adults alike will love the Alice in Wonderland statue, which depicts Alice sitting on a giant mushroom, surrounded by the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat, and other beloved characters.

Over the years, thousands of visitors have climbed on the bronze sculpture, and you’ll notice that the rabbit’s nose has been rubbed shiny from all the hands that have touched it for luck. It’s one of Central Park’s most whimsical spots and a must-visit for families.

Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride (Or Maybe Skip It?)

A horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park is one of those classic tourist experiences, but it’s also a bit controversial due to concerns about animal welfare. If you do decide to go for it, make sure you pick a licensed carriage operator and try to go in the evening when the city lights start to glow—it makes for a more magical experience. If you’d rather skip the horses, a pedicab tour is a great alternative, offering a similar experience without the ethical concerns.

Hire a Bike

Cyclists in Central Park — PriceM / Shutterstock

One of the best ways to explore Central Park without exhausting yourself is by renting a bike. Several rental spots around the park offer bikes for hourly or daily use, allowing you to cover more ground while still soaking in the scenery.

The park has designated bike lanes, making it easy and safe to navigate. A popular route is the six-mile loop around the park, which takes you past many of its famous landmarks, including the Reservoir, Strawberry Fields, and the Harlem Meer. Just remember—biking is not allowed on pedestrian-only paths, so stick to the marked routes and enjoy the ride!