Central Park

Visiting Central Park, America’s first major landscaped public park—should definitely be part of a tourist’s New York itinerary. It is an iconic attraction one should not miss. Many activities already happened in this urbanized park with natural scenic spots, from huge concerts to other fun-filled film production shoots and exhibitions. In fact, the Central Park has been featured in more than 300 films over the years.

The area (in the midst of Manhattan island) where Central Park now stands used to be covered and surrounded by glaciers called the Wisconsin Glacier thousands of years ago. The bedrocks people can see around the park serve as geological proof of the glaciers’ existence back then. Fun fact: it is bigger than some countries. Central Park is around 3.5 square miles, which is equivalent to around 843 acres of land, making it larger than Vatican City and Monaco.

Twenty-nine amazing sculptures that were donated privately are found in Central Park. Those who want to experience both nature and arts should check this park out. The Alice and Wonderland and Duke Ellington sculptures are two of its most famous ones. In the Literary Walk, there are sculptures of famous authors and poets.

Central Park is as iconic as New York. In fact, no trip to the Big Apple is complete unless you visit this landmark. It remains a vital part of the Manhattan landscape eversince its conception in the mid 1850s. The charm of this 843-acre park lies in its stark contrast to the concrete jungle and busy lights of New York City. It offers a refreshing respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Yet to a certain extent, this landmark is a small-scale version of the city.

According to Seth Kamil of Big Onion, a company offering tours of NYC landmarks including Central Park, its southern portion is reminiscent of the city’s adjacent affluent suburbs. Meanwhile, the northern area calls to mind the rustic Catskills and Adirondacks. No wonder the city’s inhabitants feel right at home within Central Park.

You could either take a guided tour of the landscape via a horse and carriage. It is a romantic and perfect setting for couples who want some privacy. For those who are more adventurous and want to do it on their own, bike rentals are available.On the other hand, if you are up for a walk or even a brisk run through Central Park, then go ahead and sign up for tours. You can even capture the park’s beauty on camera while taking the photo walking tour. It is interesting to note that some tour packages have a rain-or-shine policy, so even the possibility of rain will not put a hamper on your plans to take the perfect shot.

If you are tired of just looking around, then you should be aware the activities abound in Central Park. From museums and playgrounds to Adventure Theater for kids, the park has something to offer everyone. Even man’s best friend has a place here. Dog lovers who cannot bear to leave home without their beloved pooch can take them along. However, when you do, bear in mind this park rule: keep your dog on a leash from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The size of Central Park makes it the perfect venue for a scavenger hunt. If you are a fan of the Amazing Race, then go ahead and indulge yourself in an adventure. Make it more fun by bringing along family or friends.

After a fun-filled day touring the landscape, rest your feet on the grass atop a blanket to have a picnic in any of the fascinating spots of Central Park, like the Great Lawn or at the Sheep Meadow. You can even have the Belvedere Castle as your backdrop.

TIPS

The park is an ideal biking location. If you find yourself needing a bike, you can always find sellers who are renting bikes. Be on the look-out for the lowest prices.
Buy food and organize a picnic at the central park. Be sure to clean up afterwards.
The Belvedere Castle, a folly located in the middle of Central Park, is free to enter. The different porches of the castle offer magnificent panoramic views of the park.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must visit for all tourists, as it houses many masterpieces from different time periods and from different corners of the world.
The 1,600 cast iron lampposts can help you when you are lost in the maze-like roads of the park. The first two or three numbers directs you to the closest street and the last number indicates which side of the city you are next to.