A natural oasis among a sea of skyscrapers, Central Park is one of our favorite places in New York City. The vast green space stretches for 2.5 miles and encompasses an astounding 843 acres of land.
We have left our footprints all over the park; discovering open lawns, landmark sights, forested enclaves and hidden corners.
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To help fellow travelers explore the area, we created this easy-to-follow Self-Guided Central Park Walking Tour – for free!
About this Self-Guided Central Park Walking Tour
Experiencing Central Park is essential for anyone visiting New York City. We feature it on Day 2 in both our NYC 1-Week Itinerary and our 4-Day Budget NYC Trip Plan.
You will find our Central Park Tour Map below. It displays each stop so you can easily get an overview of the route. For walking directions from sight to sight, use the pin drop provided for each attraction.
For this Free NYC Central Park Tour, we detail the best sights to see. So get ready, because the park is gigantic and there is plenty to do!
Want the tour without ads? You can purchase this Central Park Self-Guided Walking Tour PDF for less than a cup of coffee!
Central Park History
Before you lace up your shoes and set off on our Central Park Free Walking Tour, we want to share a few fun facts about its history.
Before Central Park existed, the terrain was mostly marshland with a few settlements and farms. In the mid-1800s, with an already congested city, state officials purchased the land to build a park.
The first section opened in 1858, but it took 15 more years – and $14 million – to complete. All features within the park had to be designed – from ponds to hills to forested areas.
Today, Central Park is slightly bigger than originally planned (extending to 110th, rather than 106th). It is so massive, 640 football fields could fit inside its boundaries.
As one of the most iconic parks in the world, it has been featured in more than 240 movies. During your walk, you will likely spot some familiar filming locations!
Self-Guided Tour: Central Park, NYC
From top to bottom – and back up again – our Central Park Self-Guided Tour takes in prime attractions and a few gems, too.
The route begins at the northwest edge and heads to the southern end. It then loops northward along the eastern side and ends in the northeast corner.
The entire route is roughly 7 miles; so plan on it taking about 5-6 hours to complete. Looking for a shorter walk? Later in the article, we share tips for alternate routes (and faster modes of transit).
#1 North Woods
MAP. Nestled in the northwestern corner, North Woods is where we are kicking off our Central Park New York Tour. Step into the forested retreat and you will immediately be enveloped by nature.
The often-overlooked woodland, which feels miles from the buzzing city, is an excellent spot for birdwatching and a great escape from the hustle and bustle of NYC. Head for the Blockhouse (MAP) – from there, wind your way to the next stop on the tour.
#2 The Ravine and The Loch
MAP. The Ravine is one of our absolute favorite places in Central Park. A stream – called The Loch – freely flows through the small gorge, tumbling over rocks forming incredible waterfalls. It’s peaceful and serene – just as the designers intended it to be.
Find the North Woods Loch Waterfall (MAP) and then follow the Loch Walking Path to Glen Span Arch Bridge (MAP).
Next, move on to The Pool, which is especially stunning during autumn. Then, continue your Central Park Sightseeing Walking Tour to North Meadow.
#3 North Meadow
MAP. The North Meadow is comprised of 23 acres of wide-open space. While it is often used for organized sports in the summertime – specifically baseball – it’s a great place for frisbee, lounging and picnics, too!
#4 Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
MAP. The Reservoir was built for practicality, not for recreation. When it was established in the 1860s, it served as the temporary water supply for New York City.
It holds more than one billion gallons of water. In an emergency, that amount would only last for four hours in the city today!
The most enticing feature of The Reservoir is the 1.5-mile that path encircles it. An ideal place for jogging and walking, the path is popular with visitors, locals and even celebrities.
In fact, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis often used the pathway, which is why The Reservoir is named in her honor.
#5 The Great Lawn
MAP. Located at the exact center, the Great Lawn marks the next stop on our Central Park Self-Guided Walking Tour. While the grassy field looks similar to the other open spaces, this lawn is legendary.
Throughout the years, the site has hosted epic concerts – including performances by Simon and Garfunkel, Diana Ross, Bon Jovi and Garth Brooks.
In the summer, it’s the location of a free summer concert series, as well as the annual New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks.
To the west of the Great Lawn, you can climb to the top of Summit Rock (the park’s highest natural elevation – MAP), see the remnants of Seneca Village (a historic African American settlement prior to the park’s inception – MAP) or let the kids play at the Diana Ross Playground (MAP).
#6 Shakespeare Garden
MAP. Quaint and lovely, the Shakespeare Garden is a bright and colorful enclave. Designed to resemble an English garden, the space is dotted with plaques bearing Shakespeare quotes. It’s picturesque year-round, but magical when the flowers are in bloom.
Note that the nearby Delacorte Theater (MAP) hosts a free summertime event, Shakespeare in the Park, and has seasonal public restrooms.
#7 Belvedere Castle
MAP. This wouldn’t be the Best Self-Guided Walking Tour of Central Park NYC if we didn’t take you to a castle!
Built in 1869, the fairytale Belvedere Castle is a landmark sight. The folly fort stands atop Vista Rock, providing fabulous views to the north (over the Great Lawn) and south (over the Ramble). The castle also hosts a weather station, visitor center and gift shop.
#8 The Ramble and Bow Bridge
MAP. Designed to resemble a natural landscape, the Ramble is comprised of 38 acres of forest and intertwining paths. Let yourself get lost ‘rambling’ along the shaded Central Park walking trails!
Eventually, make your way to Bow Bridge (MAP) – often hailed the most romantic place in Central Park. Walk onto the bridge to take in the view. Then retrace your steps back into The Ramble and walk around to the west side of The Lake.
#9 Strawberry Fields (and The Dakota)
MAP. Dedicated to famed Beatles member John Lennon – and named after the song “Strawberry Fields Forever” – this little section is a must-see in NYC.
The tear-shaped garden was designed by Lennon’s wife, Yoko Ono and is classified as a Quiet Zone for meditation. At the center is a black-and-white tiled mosaic, spelling out “Imagine”, the title of Lennon’s best-selling solo song.
Before moving on to the next stop on our free walking tour in Central Park, take a moment to peer out to the building across the street to the west.
The Dakota (MAP), or The Dakota Apartments, is a historic Renaissance structure on the northwest corner of 72nd Street and Central Park West. This is where John and Yoko lived from 1973 until he was fatally shot in front of The Dakota in 1980.
#10 Tavern on the Green
MAP. Steeped in history, Tavern on the Green is not to be missed! Built as a shelter for the 700 sheep that once grazed in the Sheep Meadow, it was renovated into a restaurant in 1934.
Today, Tavern on the Green is a NYC landmark that serves upscale cuisine and classic cocktails. The high-end eatery is open every day for lunch and dinner – and serves breakfast on weekends.
It’s a superb place to dine in Central Park. However, if you are looking to grab a less expensive lunch-on-the-go, we have a few suggestions coming up.
#11 Central Park Carousel
MAP. Next on our Central Park walking route is a The Carousel. Featuring more than 50 wooden-carved horses, taking a spin is fun for both the young and young-at-heart.
The ride first opened in Central Park in 1871. At that time, it was powered by a mule and horse that were hidden beneath it. In total, there have been four carousels on the site. Today’s dates to 1908 and was last restored in 1990.
Food Break: Walking Tour Central Park, NYC
By this point, you have probably worked up a hunger – which is no problem because Central Park is the perfect place for a picnic!
Hot dog carts and other street food vendors line up at the south end of the park and can be a good option for cheap food to-go.
We used to recommend Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart (at the southeast corner near the William Tecumseh Sherman Monument – MAP), but price gouging and poor quality seem to be an issue now.
Instead, we suggest crossing 59th Street and walking past The Ritz-Carlton on 6th Avenue to the inconspicuous Halo Deli (MAP). It’s a great place to pick up picnic items and deli sandwiches at fair prices.
#12 The Pond and Gapstow Bridge
MAP. The Pond is situated in the southeast corner of the park. The best route around The Pond is via the waterside trail that hugs the southern shoreline.
As the path wraps around to the north, the picturesque Gapstow Bridge (MAP) comes into view. The stone span dates to the year 1896 – and it’s one of our favorite places in Central Park.
From both the water’s edge and atop the bridge, take in the incredible skyline views. In addition to this being a super spot for photos, the nearby benches provide a fantastic place to rest your feet (or eat your picnic!).
To the west of The Pond is the Hallett Nature Sanctuary (MAP). For decades, this part of Central Park was closed to visitors. Now open to the public, the sanctuary holds limited hours and only allows a certain number of people to enter at one time.
#13 Wollman Rink
MAP. The Wollman Rink is a highlight of the park during the winter months (and a must-see for anyone spending Christmas in NYC).
The ice-skating rink, which first opened in 1950, perfectly frames the skyline in the background. Wollman Rink is an iconic spot in NYC; it has been featured in several films (like Serendipity and Love Story).
Summertime visitors should not skip the rink! While there will be no skating, in the past an amusement park and (more recently) pickleball courts have occupied the space during the warmer months.
Regardless of the season, go for the view! The spacious plaza on the north side offers places to sit (which is another good picnic spot) and an absolutely stellar Manhattan view.
#14 Central Park Zoo
MAP. Housing a variety of animals – from snow leopards to sea lions – the Central Park Zoo first opened in 1934. We have not personally visited, but heard that although the enclosures are rather small, the sea lion feedings are quite entertaining. A ticket is required to enter.
To the north of the zoo is the Delacorte Clock (MAP), which is worth seeking out. Surrounded by bronze animal statues, the unique clock sits above brick arches and comes to life with nursery rhymes every half hour throughout the day.
#15 Balto Statue
MAP. Next up on our Central Park Walking Itinerary is the beloved Siberian husky, Balto.
In 1925, he led a team of sled dogs from Anchorage, Alaska to the town of Nome, carrying medicine to stop a deadly epidemic. The dogs were considered heroes and Balto’s statue in Central Park commemorates their efforts.
#16 The Mall and Literary Walk
MAP. One of the most beautiful spots along our Central Park walking tour route is The Mall, a formal promenade (not a shopping center). The wide pedestrian path is canopied by towering American Elm trees.
It’s best to start at the southern end of The Mall, where you will find the accompanying Literary Walk. It features famous writers of the past (MAP). The newer Monument to Women’s Rights and historic Naumburg Bandshell are also found on The Mall.
#17 Bethesda Terrace, Fountain and Arcade
MAP. Marking the north end of The Mall is the grand and opulent Bethesda Terrace and Fountain. It’s a must-see on every Central Park sightseeing tour. Climb the stairs to the top for an elevated view of The Lake and Bethesda Fountain.
Beneath the terrace is a tiled arcade. Here, you will often find musicians performing and wedding couples being photographed.
The Bethesda Fountain (MAP) is the most iconic water feature in all of New York City. Topped with an angel, the fountain has been a park attraction and gathering place since it was installed in 1873.
Nearby, you will also find the Cherry Hill Fountain (which originated as a horse trough – MAP) and the romantic Bow Bridge (which you saw earlier – MAP). The lakeside Central Park Boathouse Restaurant (MAP) is a popular spot to stop for an afternoon refreshment.
#18 Hans Christian Andersen Statue
MAP. After exploring Bethesda, continue your Central Park Self Walking Tour to find the Hans Christian Andersen statue in a secluded corner. The notable author penned The Ugly Duckling and The Little Mermaid (among many others children’s tales).
Hans Christian Andersen’s statue is a favorite for children visiting Central Park – and it’s one of our favorite spots, too! On summer Saturday mornings, visitors can enjoy the Story Telling Hour here.
#19 Conservatory Water
MAP. Just steps from HC Andersen’s statue is Conservatory Water. It is a well-known Central Park pond that is used mostly for navigating remote-controlled model sailboats.
For a bit of nostalgia, visitors can rent the small crafts and guide them across the water. Otherwise, simply watch and soak in the atmosphere.
#20 Alice in Wonderland Statue
MAP. Next up on our Walking Tour of Central Park is the Alice in Wonderland statue…and it’s just a short jaunt from Conservatory Water.
Featuring a bronze cast of characters from Alice in Wonderland, the statue was installed in 1959. Today, it remains one of the most visited artworks – and kids are free to climb and explore.
The statue of Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter was meant as a ‘gift to the children of the city’, but it is loved by visitors of all ages!
#21 The Metropolitan Museum of Art
MAP. Follow the Central Park walking paths north and you will find The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City’s most impressive museum.
The Met opened in 1880 and features major artworks from around the world – including everything from masterpiece paintings to ancient artifacts.
Ranking as the largest museum in the United States, visitors will want to allow at least 2 hours to see the highlights. That said, art aficionados would easily spend an entire day at The Met.
A ticket is required to enter– and we strongly recommend securing your tickets in advance.
#22 Cleopatra’s Needle
MAP. The history of The Obelisk, which is also known as Cleopatra’s Needle, can be traced to 1425 BC where it stood at a temple in today’s Cairo. It the oldest object in Central Park and is definitely worth getting and up-close view.
Cleopatra’s Needle was carved from a single stone, stands at 69-feet and weighs 220 tons. Given to the US as a gift in the 1870s, it took an entire year to transport it from Egypt. Erected in Central Park 1881, a matching Obelisk stands along the River Thames in London.
#23 Conservatory Garden
MAP. Now walk north and shimmy around the east side of The Reservoir. Continue northbound along the park’s eastern side to the exquisite Conservatory Garden.
The formal garden is modeled after the lush, planned green spaces of Europe. Opened in 1937, it features flowers, manicured hedges and fountains. Open from morning until dusk, it’s a beautiful and peaceful place to relax in the middle of NYC.
#24 Harlem Meer and Fort Landscape
MAP. Marking the northeast corner of Central Park is Harlem Meer. The man-made pond is home to a variety of wildlife – including ducks, fish and turtles – and is surrounded by a pleasant walking path.
The ‘Fort Landscape’ on the south side of Harlem Meer is also fun to explore. Fort Clinton (MAP) was a strategic lookout point during the Revolutionary War – and it was extended to Nutter’s Battery (MAP) during the War of 1812.
Today, visitors can climb up Fort Clinton to see two cannons (which were never actually used) and take in the sweeping views.
#25 Duke Ellington Circle
MAP. The last stop on our free walking tour of New York Central Park is the northeast entrance: Duke Ellington Circle.
The statue of the legendary jazz performer celebrates his life and music. The memorial is situated at the ‘Gateway to Harlem’, where Ellington lived and performed throughout his illustrious career.
Self-Guided Central Park Walking Tour Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Central Park Walk Map below.
Central Park Walking Tour Self-Guided Route Tips
Before you set off on your walk, we have some suggestions and advice about sightseeing in Central Park.
Shorter Central Park Walking Tours
We have outlined an ambitious route through one of the world’s most renowned urban green spaces.
As not all visitors have a full day (or the energy!) to complete the route in its entirety, we have a few tips on how to create the best Central Park tour for your trip.
Two Walks over Two Days
Rather than trying to complete the entire walk in a single day, consider splitting the walk into two days of sightseeing.
Spend a few hours walking in the park and then a few hours at a museum (like The Met, the American Museum of Natural History or another fine institution in the vicinity).
Southern Loop
Instead of attempting to see the entire park, concentrate on the southern half. In fact, you can create a convenient loop around the southern end quite easily. Start at #6 (Shakespeare’s Garden) and circle around to #22 (Cleopatra’s Needle).
Cycling in Central Park
Exploring Central Park on your own walking tour is one of the Free Things To Do in NYC.
However, with sights to see from north to south, you will certainly be wearing the tread on your shoes.
An easier way to cover more distance is with two wheels. In addition to renting a traditional bicycle, it is also possible to rent eBikes.
Guided Walking Tours of Central Park
We like the flexibility and freedom of exploring on our own, but there are advantages to joining and organized tour, too.
With a Central Park tour guide you don’t have to worry about getting lost – plus, it can be fun to meet fellow travelers. This 2-hour tour gets rave reviews!
More Free NYC Walks and Budget Tips
- Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Midtown Manhattan
- Self-Guided Lower Manhattan Walking Tour for Free
- Top Budget Tips for Visiting NYC
What You Need for your Central Park NYC Tour
Whether you opt for a Guided or Self-Guided Walking Tour in Central Park, you will want to make sure you are prepared with the essentials.
- Walking Shoes: A pair of comfortable travel shoes is a must for your walk!
- Day Pack: Carry a good travel day bag that is big enough to stow everything you will need.
- Water and Snacks: It’s best to have some portable snacks and a refillable water bottle for your exploration.
- Weather Gear: Depending on the season, you may need sunscreen, a travel umbrella or extra layers.
- Tissue: There are public restrooms within the park, but it’s always a good idea to carry your own travel tissues.
- Camera: With a good camera, you can capture the beauty of the park – and snap wildlife pictures, too! We use a Canon Rebel for our travel photos.
Start planning your USA Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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