tours around central park

Central Park tours at the most beautiful time of day…

Central Park Tours at Sunset

On tripadvisor.

The world’s best park

… at the best time of day..

Meander through Central Park’s green meadows, wild forests, and shimmering waters with one of our award winning tour guides while the sun slowly sets above you. Experience the best of this eight hundred forty three acre wonderland then get off the beaten path for an inspiring and beautiful Central Park tour experience you won’t soon forget.

27 Destinations

We know all the good spots ..

People always say that we’ve shown them more than they could have found on their own. During your tour, you’ll discover a hidden Gothic castle, a John Lennon memorial, Emma Stebbin’s stunning sculpture Angel of the Water, a beautiful terrace decorated with priceless tile, an enclave of thriving elm trees, one of the country’s oldest carousels, the stars of the Central Park Zoo, a secluded garden for star-crossed lovers, and much more.

Uncover the past

Our tour guides share it like front page news..

Learn about the original park architects and their vision for a place of rest and reflection that would bring a divided city together. Meet the men who fought them every step of the way. Find out how the city bounced back from the crime that once plagued the park. Get to know one-time hero of parks Robert Moses who eventually was blamed for the destruction of New York.

Relive the classics

We love history but pop culture is cool too..

Central Park is the most filmed location in the world . Do you really think we’d take you through without mentioning films and TV shows like Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Glee, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, or The Avengers? We’ve got you covered.

Central Park Sunset Tour

Winner of tripadvisor’s certificate of excellence..

Distance: 4 Miles

Time: Approximately 2.5 hours.

About Our Central Park Tours

We strive to give the best damn Central Park tour that money can buy. Our tour guides are friendly, extremely knowledgeable, and officially licensed by NYC. Our Central Park tours highlight more than twenty-seven different locations in Central Park at sunset.

Take the Central Park tour recommended by actual New Yorkers .

What People Are Saying

Photos of the Tour

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30 Things to Do in Central Park

This post covers things to do and see in Central Park, New York City's green lungs, arguably known the world over as the best city park anywhere.

We include the top attractions, activities, and places to eat and stay, updated for 2024. 

At 843 acres, Central Park is simply too big to cover in-depth in just one day, but if you want to try, a bike is essential.

We suggest either choosing one section to see (either the lower or middle) or if you want to see it all, doing so in two visits.

This list is organized by location, starting with the southernmost spots and then going north.

This map can help you locate these sites. If you would like in-depth information on these sites, download our Central Park Self-Guided Tour .

If you only have a few hours and want to make sure you see the most famous parts of Central Park, consider joining one of our pay-what-you-like guided Central Park tours .

We are local tour guides who also spend our free time here. We are experts on Central Park.

We created this list from our more than a decade of experience leading daily tours in Central Park, from its southern to its northern borders.

And, in this video below, let Katie, a tour guide with us, Free Tours by Foot, take you on a virtual walking tour of Central Park's southern half.

We also asked the roughly 240k members of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group what they liked most about Central Park.

The group consists of locals, like us tour guides, expats, regular visitors, and newbies to Central Park and NYC.

There's no need to be a member to search for and read the posts, comments, and recommendations.

You might like our GPS-enabled audio tours of Central Park . We also offer  bike tours ! 

If you like to explore on your own, here are the must-see sights and best things to do in Central Park!

Now, without further ado, on to the post.

• Things to See
• Guided Tours
• Where to Eat and Sleep
• Good To Know Information
• Other Things to Do in NYC

1. Cross Gapstow Bridge

Gapstow Bridge is one of the most recognizable -- and most charming -- Central Park sights.

It's the first structure you'll see when you enter the park at Fifth Avenue and E. 59th Street.

Instantly you are transported from the hustle and bustle of the city into the peaceful beauty of nature.

Gapstow Bridge spans The Pond.

Given the serenity of this body of water, it's hard to believe that it is man-made and fed from the city water supply system! 

Gapstow Bridge is one of our picks for the best photo spots in Central Park .

2. See The Sea Lions in Central Park Zoo

The park's brilliant architects, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux wanted the park to mimic nature.

Thus the original design for the park did not include a traditional zoo.

But from the 1860s to 1890s, prominent citizens donated animals, some rare or exotic, to the park.

These animals were first housed in The Menagerie and in 1934 a formal zoo was created.

It was too small to house large animals.

In the 1980s, plans for a larger, modern zoo began and in 1988, the zoo that exists today was opened.

Though it is a relatively small zoo, it does have an interesting mix of residents!

The sea lions and penguins are the most famous, but there are also snow leopards, red pandas, lemurs and a Grizzly bear.

Not what one would expect from a zoo in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.

Find out about visiting the zoo and getting cheaper tickets from our detailed post about Central Park Zoo .  

3. Ride The Central Park Carousel

This elaborate Carousel is one of the most beloved attractions in the park, particularly with kids.

The original carousel from 1873 was powered by a horse or mule under the platform.

This original carousel was replaced in 1924 but shortly after its opening, it burned down. The replacement also burned down in 1950.

The current carousel was discovered abandoned in a trolley terminal in Coney Island . It was constructed in 1908.

It has 57 horses and plays beautiful calliope music. The carousel runs 7 days a week in the summer.

4. Bask in the Sun in the Sheep Meadow

On summer weekends, the Sheep Meadow is filled with New Yorkers basking in the sun and throwing frisbees.

The view of the surrounding buildings makes it an attractive location for a picnic in Central Park .

Looking at this expansive manicured field it's hard to imagine that sheep grazed here up until 1934!

5. Walk Through The Mall

Whereas most paths and paved walkways in the park follow the flow of nature, The Mall is the only path laid out as a straight line in the park.

The American Elm trees that make up the cathedral-like ceiling over the path are among the largest collections of these trees in the United States.

Many famous photographs and film scenes have been filmed here such as  Doctor Who, Jessica Jones, Person of Interest, and the movie Enchanted. 

At the south end of The Mall is Literary Walk, with statues of famous authors Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Fitz-Greene Halleck, and William Shakespeare.

6. Sit a While at Bethesda Terrace

As you leave The Mall, you will find yourself at Bethesda Arcade, lined with grand columns and a spectacular ceiling made up of 15,876 individual tiles.

The Arcade opens up onto Bethesda Terrace and Bethesda Fountain.

This formal landscape was considered the heart of the park architect Calvert Vaux.

As this is one of the most photogenic spots in Central Park, you will usually see lots of professional photographers.

Television series like  Sex and the City  and  Law and Order  have episodes with scenes here.

Other well-known movies shot here include Woody Allen's Annie Hall , John Wick , One Fine Day, and the classic  Christmas movies   Home Alone 2  and  Elf .

7. Go Rowing On The Lake

The Lake was used year-round in the early days of the park to go rowing in the summer and ice skating in the winter.

Though ice skating ceased on The Lake when the park's Wollman Rink was opened in the 1950s, people can still enjoy rowing boats.

Crossing over The Lake is Bow Bridge, perhaps the best photo locale in Central Park .

Find out about boat rentals from the Loeb Boathouse website . The Loeb Boathouse also has a restaurant with lovely views.

8. Watch the Mini Sailboats at Conservatory Water

To the east of The Lake is the Conservatory Water. Since the 19th century, it has been a popular spot for launching and racing miniature sailboats.

There are plenty of benches to sit on while you watch the mini boats go by.

If you feel like having a go as a captain, you can rent a boat at the Kerbs Boathouse.

Adjacent to the boathouse is a small cafe, Le Pain Quotidien. You can dine there or get food to go.

Fans of the book Stuart Little , the children's classic about a mouse living in New York City, will recognize this pond as the place where Stuart races a mini sailboat.

The Conservancy Water has also appeared in scenes in a dozen movies, most notably Breakfast at Tiffany's and Person of Interest .

9. See Alice in Wonderland

Just north of the Conservancy Water is the Alice in Wonderland statue depicting Alice and the Mad Hatter Tea Party.

The statue was donated by George Delacorte, a philanthropist, and publisher, in honor of his deceased wife.

At the dedication ceremony in 1959, the Delacorte grandchildren unveiled the statue.

They then proceeded to climb on it, just as children do today!

George Delacorte also donated money for the creation of the Delacorte Theater where Shakespeare in the Park is held every summer.

10. Honor John Lennon at Strawberry Fields

To the west of The Lake, you'll find this quiet area of the park dedicated to John Lennon, who lived just outside of the park in the Dakota building .

The name comes from the Beatles' song Strawberry Fields Forever . The garden was planned together by John Lennon’s widow Yoko Ono and the city.

Its central feature is the Imagine Circle mosaic, designed by Italian mosaic artists. Read more about Strawberry Fields .

Strawberry Fields is just next to Central Park West, the border of the Upper West Side of Manhattan.

Venture out of the park to explore this off-the-tourist-track neighborhood.

11. Hike Through The Ramble

To the north of The Lake is The Ramble, a 38-acre was built to resemble a forest, with winding paths, boulders, and even man-made waterfalls.

Olmstead and Vaux wanted to provide a wild environment to contrast with the formality of the nearby Bethesda Terrace.

The Ramble was the answer. It is one of the places in Central Park where one can most escape the city.

The Ramble is one of the best spots for bird-watching in the United States. Over 230 different species have been spotted. 

See the section below on park activities for information on bird-watching

Read more about The Ramble  here .

12. Get Great Views of the Park from a Castle

Belvedere Castle was built in the park in 1869. Its name, Belvedere, is Italian for “beautiful view”.

Though it's called a castle, designers Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould built it as a "folly”, an architectural term for a purely decorative building.

Situated on Vista Rock, the castle's two balconies overlook Turtle Pond, The Ramble to the south, and the Great Lawn to the north.  

The castle is now a visitor's center as well as a Nature Center, where visitors can get information about the flora and fauna of the park and rent bird-watching kits.  

The castle's views are among the 28 best views in NYC .

Read more about Belvedere Castle .

13. Stop and Smell the Flowers in Shakespeare Garden

This formal garden was originally a flower garden called Heart Garden.

It was redesigned and designated Shakespeare Garden in 1915, in honor of the famous poet and playwright William Shakespeare.

Each of the plants and flowers in the garden is mentioned in the works of Shakespeare. Throughout the garden, there are small plaques with Shakespeare's quotes.

When the garden was dedicated to Shakespeare, 60 starlings, mentioned frequently in Shakespeare's works, were released into Central Park.

These birds were not native to North America, and those originals became over 150 million on this continent.

14. See Shakespeare in the Park at the Delacorte Theatre

This 1800-seat, open-air theatre is home to the famous  Shakespeare in the Park  performances every summer.

Over 100,000 people flock to this theatre every summer to see Shakespeare's greatest hits starring top-notch actors, some of TV and movie fame.  

The theater was built in 1962 and named after George Delacorte who financed the project.

Find out how to get tickets to this amazing theater series.

15. See a Real Egyptian Obelisk

Cleopatra’s Needle is the oldest structure in Central Park having been constructed in Egypt in 1400 BC!  

The obelisk was moved from Alexandria, Egypt to New York City in 1880, and it was an arduous task.  

A hole was cut into the hull of the ship, and the obelisk was rolled into it atop cannonballs.  

Once it reached New York, it was moved very slowly in a wagon hitched to 32 horses. It took 112 days to move the obelisk from New York Harbor to Central Park.

Egypt had threatened to take the obelisk back due to neglect, but the Central Park Conservancy was able to raise enough money to restore it.

16. Picnic on the Great Lawn

This massive lawn is one of the most famous in the United States and one of the best picnic spots in Central Park .

Over the years, the Great Lawn has been used for many concerts, including Simon and Garfunkel, Bon Jovi, and the New York Philharmonic, just to name a few.

The Great Lawn was not included in the original park design because in 1842 it was the site of a massive reservoir that was part of the Croton Aqueduct System.

The reservoir was drained in 1931 and filled in with excavation from the building of Rockefeller Center and the 8th Avenue Subway.

The site of the New York Public Library's main branch in Midtown was another gigantic reservoir that fed off the Croton River.

Read more about the New York Public Library .

17. Walk or Run Around the Central Park Reservoir 

The Reservoir is one of the most popular spots in the park. 

IT was officially renamed the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir when she passed away in 1994. It was her favorite spot in the park.

The one billion gallons (3.7 billion liters) reservoir was built in the 1860s as a backup water supply for the city while the Croton Reservoir System was shut down for two weeks for repairs.  

The Reservoir was permanently decommissioned in 1993. It was no longer needed because of a new underground water tunnel.

The Reservoir is one of the best places to go for a run in NYC. The jogging path goes around the water (approximately 1.6 miles or 2 km) and offers gorgeous views.

18. Play Ball in the North Meadow

This 23 acres (10 hectares) meadow has 7 baseball fields and 5 softball fields. It is the largest meadow in Central Park.  

It's used by baseball teams in the spring and then is turned into football and soccer fields in the fall.

The North Meadow also has a recreation Center, which is a great place to find water fountains and restrooms while you are in the park. 

19. See The Waterfalls of The Loch

You probably didn't have waterfalls on the list of things to see in New York City, but you can see several in Central Park.

Three of these waterfalls flow from The Loch (“Loch” is Scottish for “lake”) located in The Ravine, a wooded valley in the lower part of the North Woods. 

All the waterfalls are man-made and are fed by hidden pipes but they look quite natural.

The Ravine’s towering trees and the sound of flowing water muffle out the sounds of the city.

This is a popular spot for birdwatching, one of many activities to do in Central Park.

20. Wander in the North Woods

The North Woods spans 40 acres at the north end of Central Park and is the largest of the park’s woodland landscapes.

Calvert and Vaux were inspired by forested areas of the Catskills and Adirondacks in northern New York State. 

The goal was to offer New Yorkers who could not afford a vacation a  place to get away from urban life.

To this day, New Yorkers head to the North Woods when they want to immerse themselves in the wilderness, without leaving the city.

 21. Admire the Landscape of the Conservatory Garden

The formal Conservatory Garden is a stark contrast to the expansive green fields and leafy woods of Central Park.

The garden opened in 1937 and is named for the glass conservatory that stood at the site in 1899.

This sophisticated garden is split into three sections: the French-style North Garden, the Italianate Center Garden, and the English-style South Garden.

On its six acres, there are three fountains, and an array of flowers, including summer perennials, chrysanthemums, tulips, and lilacs.

This charming garden is a popular spot for small weddings.

22. Harlem Meer and Lasker Rink

Located at the northeast corner of the park is Harlem Meer (Dutch for lake), a man-made body of water named for the adjacent neighborhood of Harlem.

The surrounding vegetation includes various types of trees like cypress, oak, and beech trees. 

Catch-and-release fishing is a popular activity at the Meer. In the winter, there’s ice skating at Lasker Rink.

Note that from 2022 through 2024, the north end of the park is undergoing extensive reconstruction.

The result will be a new recreational facility with a new pool and rink as well as increased outdoor activities.

ACTIVITIES IN CENTRAL PARK

23. Take a Bike Tour

One of the most popular activities in Central Park is bike riding. There are dedicated bike lanes around the perimeter of the park.

There are several companies that offer bike tours of Central Park. We offer a pay-what-you-wish Central Park Bike Tour (not including bike rental).

Our guests are entitled to 20% off on all of our partner shop's Central Park bike tours . Just use promo code FTBF .

You can rent a bike and ride through the park on your own. See our list of reputable bike rental companies .

New York City's bike share program CitiBike   has docking stations at various locations around the park.

24. Be a Photographer for a Day

Central Park is one of the very best places in New York City to take photos.

With so many scenic locales one could take hundreds of pictures.

Our post on the best photo spots in Central Park takes you to the iconic sites that are most photogenic.

25. Take a Horse and Carriage Ride

Get a different perspective of the park from the back seat of a horse-drawn carriage.

Our post on horse and carriage ride  companies compares the different options and the costs.

26. Ice Skate at Wollman Rink

In the winter months, Wollman Rink at the southeast corner of the park is open for ice skating.

If it looks familiar to you, it's because this rink is seen in a number of films like Serendipity , Night at the Museum, and Home Alone 2 .

Find out about this rink and other places to ice skate in New York City .

27. Look for the Birds

Central Park is known for its great bird-watching opportunities. The prime locations are The Pond by Gapstow Bridge, North Woods, The Ramble, and the Hallett Nature Sanctuary.

See the official Central Park bird-watching guide .

28. Go for a Run

Central Park is one of the best spots for running in the city. It offers different distance options and terrains.

Read our post on running in the park for the best routes.

29. Attend a Rollerskating Party

From mid-April to late October, on the weekends, the Central Park Dance Skaters Association (CPDSA) hosts a roller skate dance party in the Skate Circle (see a map of the location ).

The parties are from 2:45 pm-6:45 pm and music is provided by a DJ. It is free to attend, but bring your own skates. 

Check CPDSA’s event calendar to see what's on. 

30. Go Fishing

Catch-and-release fishing is allowed only at these three locations in the park: The Lake, The Pond and Harlem Meer (the best of the three fishing spots).

The best season to fish is from April to October. If you don't have fishing equipment, you can borrow some from the Charles A. Danna Discovery Center .

Note that participants 16 and older must have a valid NYS fishing license. Read these important Central Park Fishing Guidelines before thinking of going.

31. Hear Free Music

New York Philharmonic

Every summer, usually in mid-June, the New York Philharmonic puts on a free performance on Central Park's Great Lawn.

If you can make it, this is a quintessential New York experience. Get details here .

Global Citizen Festival

This yearly concert is held in Central Park and the proceeds go to help fight hunger. Find out how to get your free tickets here .

SummerStage

SummerStage is a summer-long series of free concerts. The diverse line-up is amazing and it's hard to believe that the performances don't cost a thing!

Check our Summerstage post for the annual line-ups and dates.

Classical Music

Since 1905, there Naumburg Orchestral Concerts have been presenting free classical music at the Naumburg Bandshell. See the schedule here .

The Met Opera Summer Recital Series

Each year, up-and-coming opera singers from the Metropolitan Opera perform well-known arias and duets in concerts in all five boroughs, including one recital in Central Park. 

Find out more about Summer at the Met .

Where to Eat in Central Park

Tavern on the Green

67th Street at Central Park West. This restaurant, once the sheepfold, has become a New York City landmark. $$$

The Loeb Boathouse

East 72nd Street and Park Drive North. Set on the edge of The Lake, this restaurant has an unbeatable ambiance. $$$

Boathouse Express Café

Tucked behind the Loeb Boathouse restaurant, this take-out café offers quick fare for a reasonable price. $$

Maoz Vegetarian

Fast, healthy food including falafel, smoothies, and breakfast foods, is located on the southeastern edge of the Harlem Meer. $

Dancing Crane Cafe

Located near the Central Park Zoo, the Dancing Crane Cafe serves hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages.

Ballfields Cafe

A casual eatery on the northern edge of Heckscher Ballfields.

Le Pain Quotidien

This US chain restaurant offers casual sit-down and take-out service. There are two locations in the park.

One is at the historic Mineral Springs pavilion , on the north end of the Sheep Meadow. The other is at the Kerbs Boathouse on the south side of the Conservatory Water. $

Snack Carts  

Food carts selling hot dogs, pretzels, and other snack food can be found throughout the park. $

Hotels Near Central Park

If being right by Central Park is a must for your stay, you might want to consider the Upper West Side or Upper East Side .

Recommended Hotels

*Price brackets are higher than for other neighborhoods

• Empire Hotel
• Belnord Hotel
• Hotel Belleclaire Central Park

Mid Range  

• Hotel Lucerne
• Hotel Beacon
• Arthouse Hotel
• JW Marriott Essex House New York
• 1 Hotel Central Park
• Park Lane New York

Take a look at our post, 25 Cheap (And Nice!) Hotels In New York City , include some excellent hotels and a great hostel right near the park.

Good to Know

Public Transporation to Central Parks

• B, C, 2, and 3 on the north side
• 1, 2, 3, B, and C trains along the west side
• 4, 5, and 6 trains along the east side
• A, B, C, D, 1, N, R, and Q trains on the south side
• M1, M2, M3, M4 on the east side
• M10, M72 on the west side

Bathrooms and Vistors Centers

Use this map to locate bathrooms and Visitor's Centers in the park, as well as open hours.

Safety and Central Park

Read our post on staying safe in Central Park . The park is generally safe but there are a few tips you may find helpful.

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The Detour: How to explore Central Park in New York City

Apr 8, 2022 • 13 min read

Belvedere Castle right by Turtle Pond in New York City's iconic Central Park © Stefano Giovannini / Lonely Planet

Welcome to The Detour, where we show you the hidden corners of some of the world’s most visited places. 

The first public park in the nation, Central Park is still where New Yorkers go to get a breath of fresh air and recharge. And they’re not alone: thanks to its varied terrain – lush meadows, exposed bedrock, wild woodlands, lakes, gardens and a reservoir – the park bursts with biodiversity, including rare flora and fauna. And, much like the city that surrounds it, it hums with history and culture. The park is known for its outdoor theater, charming eateries, ice skating rink , Reservoir running track , a tribute to John Lennon and Alice in Wonderland statue – and endless attractions that any traveler will want to see. 

But once you’ve seen your own personal highlights, it’s worth finding some extra time to explore. Here’s how you can take a detour in Central Park, whether you have just one hour, three, five or all day. 

1-hour detour 

Your first visit to Central Park will make it clear – the park is unbelievably expansive. If you find yourself at the famed Bethesda Fountain , an iconic meeting and people-watching spot, you can still manage to sneak some exploration into just an hour. Here’s how to do it. 

Relax in a semi-secret garden

In about 40 minutes you can walk to the Conservatory Garden , the most formal and stunning of Central Park’s gardens. It’s tucked away on six acres between E 104th & 106th streets.

Open daily from 8am to 8pm in summer, the elegant, European-styled garden, with its beautiful flowers and fountains and magnificent gated entrance (Vanderbilt Gate once belonged to the largest single-family house in New York City), feels like Central Park’s best-kept secret – and is an excellent place to enjoy a book or breakfast, or rest between museums.

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It’s directly across from El Museo del Barrio and the Museum of the City of New York at the north end of Fifth Avenue’s Museum Mile – so you can keep the exploration going if you’re so inclined. 

Hear the sounds of Central Park 

The New York Philharmonic has plans to return to its shows the park, but no dates have been announced. However, you can download the Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK app  – a free immersive audio experience that harmonizes with the park’s landscapes and attractions, and was created by the Philharmonic during the pandemic. That way, you can explore the park at your leisure with an epic soundtrack. Try it on your walk to the Conservatory Garden. 

Recreate your top pop culture moments in Central Park

While the Strawberry Fields – about a 10-minute walk from Bethesda Fountain – is the most famous musical landmark, there are over 100 music “pop spots” (mostly concentrated in the southern half of the park) according to Bob Egan, a human encyclopedia of NYC pop and art who publishes a map and has a website called PopSpots . 

Instead of just imagining these cultural moments, re-enact them. You can grab some friends and recreate famous album covers around Central Park, including: Simon & Garfunkel’s Greatest Hits (east side of the Reservoir), John Lennon & Yoko Ono’s Watching the Wheels  (72nd & CPW) and The Rascals: The Essentials (Bethesda Fountain). 

Or be the artist: sign up for an art class – like 92Y’s plein air watercolor painting class in Central Park – join a meet-up or bring your own sketch pad. Central Park is the best muse. 

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3-hour detour 

More time means more adventures, and three hours will provide ample time to indulge in some art or some nature. 

Experience the arts and culture 

You’ve likely heard of the free and fabulous Shakespeare in the Park, which has taken place annually at Delacorte Theater since 1961. But “Shakespeare in the Fields” (as it’s colloquially/unofficially known) – performed by a theatrical group ( NY Classical Theatre ) that takes crowds wandering through the bushes in the park’s remote northwestern corner – is more rustic and interactive, though just as free (you still need a ticket). 

Go birdwatching 

Bring your binoculars – Central Park is one of the best places to go bird watching; not only in New York City, but in the entire US. 

“Scientists have a term called ‘the Central Park effect’. If you’re a bird and see a big green patch of land boxed in by concrete and large puddle of water, you know it’s going to be a good rest stop,” explains climate scientist and wildlife photographer Alexander More . However, beyond the usual birds, he was a firsthand witness to the rare Snowy Owl, which visited the park for the first time in 130 years (likely due to climate change), along with other species like warblers, tanagers and hawks.

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That’s because this ‘rest stop’ is situated along the Atlantic Flyway (a major migratory route for birds between North and South America), which is busiest during the first two weeks of May, when birds fly north, and from August through September when birds start returning south. 

Within the park, the best locations for spotting birds (and meeting fellow birders – a chirpy, affable and eclectic crew) are in the far northern sections of the park – North Woods, Ravine and the Ramble . 

5-hour detour 

Five hours is enough time to see the lesser-visited side of Central Park – whether that’s foraging for your own food, strolling through nature or learning the integral history of Seneca Village. 

Try foraging 

Central Park is home to over 100 medicinal and edible plants, from the American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) to Kentucky coffee tree (Gymnocladus dioicus), according to “Wildman” Steve Brill. Brill is the most renowned foraging guide in the tri-state area who leads half-day tours across NYC’s parks and beyond – sign up for a totally new way of exploring this urban park. 

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A vegan and self-taught botanist since 1990, he’s passionate about disseminating everything he’s learned and educating us on the diversity of wild plants and responsible foraging. Steve Brill first made headlines when he got arrested for eating a dandelion in Central Park in 1986. Charges were soon dropped and he hasn’t had a problem since.

No single tour is the same. Summer is best for berries - think black raspberries, mulberries, juneberries and wineberries - while fall is best for mushrooms and nuts. His tours are hyper-local: “the people who live in Brooklyn come to Prospect Park, while the people in Manhattan come to Central Park”. They are also hands-on – you keep what you pick – and humorous, as he knows just as many puns as plants. While a $20 donation is suggested per adult, tours are free to those who can’t afford them. You can also download his Wild Edibles app (the ‘Lite Version’ is free). Worried about sustainability? Brill has been picking in the same spots across Central Park for over 39 years, and there’s just as much there now as there was in 1982.

Explore the quieter north end

Instead of entering Central Park from the southern end, where most tourists go, begin your exploration in Harlem to learn about the park’s lesser-known landscapes and history. 

For the grandest entrance of all, make your way from the memorial to the jazz legend Duke Ellington, in a roundabout at Central Park’s northeastern corner (E 110th and Fifth Ave), to the ornate Vanderbilt Gate, which was designed in France.

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After relaxing in the beautiful Conservatory Garden, which also happens to be one of the cheapest places to get married in New York City (see 1-hour Detour for more details), take the E 102nd entrance and walk west, passing the baseball fields, till you reach the lesser-known Springbanks Arch, a portal to another world. Sounds of gushing spring water usher you into the wilderness that is the Ravine, where the only skyscrapers you can see are tall oak, elms and maple trees. 

Wandering along the narrow waterway, known as the Loch, look for meditative waterfalls (all designed by the park’s original designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert B. Vaux) and wildlife, like snapping turtles and hawks. Continue till you reach the 40-acre North Woods, the largest of the Park’s three woodland landscapes, widely popular among bird watchers and naturalists. After taking yourself on a free self-guided tour , bid adieu to the area labeled the  “Adirondacks” via the rustic Huddlestone Arch, made entirely of massive boulders, which thrusts you out and returns you to “civilization”. You’ll emerge at the eerily empty 1960s modernist Lasker Rink and Pool (soon to be redeveloped into the $150-million Harlem Meer Outdoor Center, set to open in 2024) overlooking Harlem Meer, which, at 11 acres, is the second largest manmade body of water in the park and popular for catch-and-release fishing.

Make your way west to the Great Hill, one of the highest natural points in Central Park, and continue south for twenty blocks along the park’s west side, passing the tennis courts and Reservoir (known for its scenic running track and skyline views, it’s literally breathtaking), till you reach one of the most significant historical sites in the entire park: Seneca Village. 

Learn the park's important history

Before Central Park was established in 1856, the grassy stretch of lawn between what is now W 82nd and 89th Streets (across from the American Museum of Natural History ) was home to New York’s first free and prosperous African-American settlement. Founded thirty years prior in 1825, Seneca Village was a refuge from the chaos and grit of the city downtown – until an 1853 New York State law uprooted its residents and razed the village for the creation of Central Park. 

To counter the city’s ‘unhealthy conditions’, the law designated that 775 acres of land would become the nation’s first landscaped public park. While this allowed the government to acquire private land for public use through eminent domain – a common practice back then – compensating landowners in the process, many of the 1600 displaced were outraged, claiming their land was undervalued, according to the Conservancy. 

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As you wander the grassy knolls and winding paved and mulch paths under the shade of billowing trees, passing people reclining on park benches and children frolicking at playgrounds, it’s hard to imagine today that this barely landscaped patch of green between Central Park West and present-day Arthur Ross Pinetum (mid-Park between 84th and 86th Streets), west of the Great Lawn, was once part of New York City’s grid system, home to a Black middle-class utopia of 225 property-owning African-Americans (and other blue-collared peoples), with houses made from wood panels, stone and brick, three vibrant churches, a two-storey brick school for African-American students, burial grounds, stables and residential gardens – not to mention a massive 31-acre receiving reservoir with 30-ft-high walls where the Great Lawn and Turtle Pond are today.

While it seems like Seneca Village was all but erased to create Central Park, a 2011 archeological dig showed otherwise, uncovering a significant amount of remains, from blocks of stones belonging to the reservoir and the corner of a foundation, to personal artifacts like shoes, buttons, a toothbrush and a hair comb, thanks to the help of ground-penetrating radar to pinpoint locations. In 2019, after nearly a decade of research, Central Park Conservancy installed its first interpretive signage initiative commemorating Seneca Village, which you can experience today. 

The same year, as an attempt to rectify historical imbalance through art, Mayor De Blasio announced plans to make a monument to the Lyons family – early Seneca Village property owners who were exemplary abolitionists and equal rights advocates. (While there’s no update since the announcement, the proposed location is actually at Central Park’s W 106th Street entrance, not the former Seneca Village site.) 

To learn more about Seneca Village, look for interpretive signs that dot the W 80s, take a guided tour (or this 30-min virtual walking tour ), and/or consult the many resources available on Central Park’s website. Research is ongoing. 

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All-day detour 

Have an entire day to dedicate to your Central Park explorations? Try any of the above experiences – and check out these additional adventures to round out your day. 

Stop for a picnic

If you want to spend the entire day exploring, it’s the perfect time to pack a picnic. And Central Park has every kind of setting you could wish for, from grassy meadows to secluded waterfalls, picturesque bridges and lakes to panoramic outcroppings. 

“My favorite spot in all of Manhattan,” says pop-up picnic planner Nikita Paul (who started PicNik NYC during the pandemic), “is right in front of Belvedere Castle and Turtle Pond. Serene, calm and romantic, it has a fairytale feel despite being in the middle of a concrete jungle.” She also recommends Sheep Meadow (great for people watching), lakeside picnics at Cherry Hill next to Loeb Boathouse , Wollman Skating Rink off-season for the skyline views and Seneca Village for Juneteenth. 

That said, any bedrock will do. Just bring a blanket and food, which you can grab before you enter (which you should grab before you enter since many of the concession stands were closed due to the pandemic) from Breads and Épicerie Boulud at Lincoln Center , Whole Foods at Columbus Circle or Bo’s Bagels in Harlem (which arguably makes the best bagels in NYC). 

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See Central Park from another vantage point 

To fully understand the scope of the park, you have to see it from above. Once you’ve explored on the ground, go take in one of the best aerial views from the Met’s Roof Garden. Another is from the Edge at Hudson Yards – the highest observation deck in the Western Hemisphere – but it’s not free (tickets are from $36/adult). The same goes for a number of high-end restaurants and hotels, i.e. the Mandarin Oriental at Columbus Circle (take the elevator up to see the lobby views for free) and Park Lane Hotel . 

Visit nearby galleries and shops

Any of the nearby museums complement a trip to Central Park. Aside from the Met and Natural History Museum, it’s worth checking out some of the smaller, lesser-known galleries and museums, like Neue Galerie , New-York Historical Society , Asia Society , the Frick , El Museo and the Jewish Museum . 

Take a quick trip to France 

Nearby you can visit a stellar bilingual bookshop inside a former mansion: Albertine , the only place in the city devoted to selling French and English books. You have to go through security to enter because it’s technically part of France, but ne vous inquiétez pas : no passport is needed. It’s worth the trouble because the elegant hand-painted ceiling featuring constellations and planets on the second floor is, quite literally, out of this world.

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If you really want to feel like you’re in France (the full experience), pick up a fresh baguette by Richaud, a French actor turned baker (during the pandemic), who now uses the kitchen at Alain Ducasse’s upscale French bistro Benoit on W 55th, just 4 blocks from the park. 

Explore New York beyond Central Park:  20 sometimes-free New York City attractions The best 13 parks in New York City New York City's 6 best running routes

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Official Central Park Pedicab Guided Tours

2745 central park s, ny, ny 10019, book a central park pedicab tour in just a few simple steps, pedicab tours for everyone.

Step into the enchanting world of Central Park with our immersive Official Central Park Pedicab Tours. Ideal for both newcomers and seasoned New Yorkers, these guided journeys offer a captivating glimpse into the park's most renowned landmarks and hidden treasures. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons why opting for a pedicab tour of Central Park is an essential activity, covering everything from the perks and pricing to selecting the perfect tour for your adventure.

Experience the magic of Central Park with our unforgettable pedicab tours. Here at Central Park Ride, we provide a distinctive, eco-conscious, and delightful approach to exploring the iconic sights and lesser-known wonders of NYC's cherished park. Moreover, our knowledgeable local guides deliver engaging narratives about the park's rich history, stunning architecture, and famous film locations, ensuring each tour leaves an indelible mark.

Select between our Classic Tours, perfect for a one-hour escapade, or indulge in our best-selling Deluxe Tours, offering two hours of exploration. For those seeking the ultimate experience, our VIP Tour combines the allure of Central Park with a captivating city tour. Whether you're craving a romantic rendezvous, a family-friendly outing, or an exclusive excursion with friends, our range of options caters to every preference.

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Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of Central Park on a relaxing and delightful private tour. Choose from our 1-hour, 2-hour, or 3-hour tour options, and get ready to experience the world’s most famous urban park like never before.

To secure your spot on one of our unforgettable tours, follow these simple steps:

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Remember, these tickets won’t last long! Book now to guarantee your one-of-a-kind adventure through Central Park.

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Explore Central Park Pedicab Tours blog for exciting insights and updates on our unique Pedicab Rickshaw Tours. Dive into the history and beauty of Central Park’s landmarks, get insider tips for your visit, and stay updated on our latest offerings. Our blog is your go-to resource for everything about Central Park and our tours, helping you make the most of your NYC adventure. Start exploring now!

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NYC Horse Carriage Rides

Established since 1979 - family owned & operated , "central park carriage rides is tradition like no other", important notice: beware of imitation websites - we are official nyc horse carriage rides websites .

Meet Giuseppe and Francesco, a father & son team who have been running their family-owned business for over 40 years.

Our family-owned and operated company has been providing delightful horse carriage rides since 1979, when our founder Giuseppe started the business after moving to the New York City from Sicily. 

Today, his son Frank manages the company with a passion for ensuring the well-being of our horses and providing the best possible experience for our customers, with unbeatable prices and no middlemen.

You can trust us to provide the most authentic and affordable Central Park horse carriage ride experience. Book online now and join us for a tour of Central Park led by our knowledgeable and enthusiastic team! If you are ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of New York City - Look no further than NYC Horse Carriage Rides™! Experience the magic of Central Park like never before with our authentic and exciting rides. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity - Book your ride today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

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Our horses are the heart of our company, and we take their care and treatment very seriously. They are born and raised in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and are treated as part of our family. Our horses receive daily grooming and see a Veterinary specialist three times a year. They are also given treats and water breaks while working. Our stables provide big beautiful stalls with straw bedding and automatic water feeders for drinking. We guarantee our horses' welfare, as they are our #1 priority.

Our stable takes pride in providing the best possible care for our horses. We ensure their welfare by feeding them fresh hay daily and giving them hot or cold showers depending on the season. Our local NYPD Mounted-Police Farrier guarantees that they receive brand new horseshoes and trimmings every 4-5 weeks. Our horses also enjoy six to twelve weeks of vacation every year on beautiful green pastures in Pennsylvania. We prioritize their safety and well-being by not operating during severe weather conditions or when temperatures reach near 19 or 87 degrees (+150 heat index) Fahrenheit

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Bicycle Riding

See and visit Central Park's best attractions on a bike ride!

Exploring Central Park on a bicycle is a great way to see a lot of the park in a short amount of time. Enjoy the scenery as you pedal along at your own pace, stopping along the way to explore the many attractions. Take in breathtaking views on a variety of flat, hilly and scenic terrain.

Park drives provide three long distance routes to choose from - 6.1 miles, 5.2 miles or 1.7 miles. You can also bike some shorter routes by crossing through the park at a number of locations.

Bike Rentals & Tours

Renting a bike  is a fantastic way to see more of Central Park, especially if you're on a tight schedule. Bike Rentals start at $12 per child and $15 per adult, and include a bike, helmet, lock and map. 

Booking a bike tour allows you to see Central Park with someone who knows the ropes! Your guide will show you many well-known landmarks and attractions featured in famous movies and TV shows, and will guide you through the history and art of the park as you go along. Pricing for this 2 hour tour starts at $45. Private tours available - pricing varies by group size.

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What gives? 82% of last 11 weekends brought rain to Central Park

The fatigue is real, by lauren maroney • published may 15, 2024 • updated on may 15, 2024 at 3:04 pm.

If it feels like we’ve been dealing with rain every single weekend this spring, we nearly have. Out of the last 11 weekends, nine of them brought measurable rainfall to Central Park.

And this soggy spring pattern might be giving you déjà vu. Spring 2023 was full of wet weekends as well, with 10 out of 13 (77%) producing measurable rainfall.

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Looking at individual days, Saturday was far and away the “wettest” day of the 2023 spring season, with Sunday coming in at a distant second. Not only were we seeing a large proportion of wet weekends, but the workweek skewed dry.

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In fact, though Saturday and Sunday account for just over one quarter of a week, nearly 80% of the rain last spring came on the weekend.

In contrast, the distribution of rainfall among the days of the week has been more egalitarian this spring, though still not perfect. Just over 50% of the season’s rain total has come on either a Saturday or Sunday.

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This season still is not over. As it stands right now, we are more than 2.5 inches behind 2023 when it comes to weekend rainfall, but already over an inch ahead of an average spring.

Despite periodic deluges we faced on weekends, 2023 ended its spring season falling just shy of average rainfall totals. This year, on the other hand, has already outpaced the seasonal average and we still have two weeks left to add to our bucket.

Spring 2024 has been arguably less cruel than last spring, but it likely feels just as irksome.

The season is producing more rainfall, impacting more days, and the fatigue is there. So go ahead and treat yourself to that raincoat you’ve been eyeing. If the trend continues, you’ll get good use out of it. Here's the 5-day forecast.

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'WAR ZONE': Tallahassee battered by possible tornado; one dead amid widespread damage

A ferocious storm system that spawned multiple reported tornadoes brought heavy and widespread damage to Tallahassee on Friday morning, toppling trees onto homes, rendering roads impassible and knocking out power to more than 80,000 area electric customers.

At least one person, a 47-year-old woman who hasn't been identified, was killed in the storm after a tree fell on her home, according to the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

“We regret to inform that deputies are working a storm related fatality in the area of Aenon Church Road,” the Sheriff’s Office said.

Almost 80,000 out of power at height of storm; restoration will take 'some time'

The storms, which intensified as they approached Tallahassee, brought Tallahassee to a virtual standstill, with damage reminiscent of the aftermath of a hurricane. It prompted schools, universities and businesses without power to shutter for the day.

A number of eyewitnesses, including first responders, reported seeing tornadoes downtown and elsewhere. The damage extended from the west along Blountstown Highway to the east in the Chaires community. Among hard-hit areas were downtown, Indianhead Acres, Myers Park and Railroad Square.

With half of the capital city power grid offline , mutual-aid crews were arriving from Louisiana, Alabama, Jacksonville and Central Florida. Another 20,000-plus Talquin Electric customers were in the dark, too. And unlike previous storms, the number of outages continued to mount in the hours after the squall's sudden blow.

“Early assessments of the electric grid show severe damage to transmission lines, impacting 11 substations,” the city said in a text message to customers. “Mutual aid has been requested, and crews from ten utilities are on their way.”

Alison Faris, a city spokeswoman, said crews would be working overnight and into the weekend get the grid back online.

"The restoration is going to take some time because of the severity of what we're seeing," she told the Democrat "There are lots of reports of downed trees and and downed poles. If you can stay off the roads, than please do, because that enables crews to do their work on power restoration and road clearing.”

'Tornadic capable': Official word still out but damage was widespread

Christian Oliver, meteorologist with the National Weather service in Tallahassee, said a line of severe storms intensified as it neared the city, spawning a reported tornado in the downtown area.

“As that line was approaching the city, we had three distinct circulations, each with their own tornado debris signature,” Oliver said. “It looked like they were all kind of coming together into one tornadic capable storm.”

Jeff Mortham was getting ready to go to work when the lights started flickering at his home in Winwood Hills and the winds began to howl outside. He watched through a window as what appeared to be a tornado ripped down trees behind his house.

“I definitely saw the wind and debris swirling there in the backyard,” Mortham said. “Whether or not somebody wants to call it a tornado, that’s what it looked like to me.”

The storm knocked down a 60-foot pecan tree in the front yard, blocking his driveway, though it fell away from the house. Another tree appeared to have knocked off part of his gutter, but his house and others nearby seemed to have escaped major damage.

“Everybody seems to be OK,” Mortham said. “There’s just going to be some damage to clean up. But everybody will get together, and we’ll make it happen.”

But others were not so lucky.

'Thank God my baby wasn't in there': Hard hit and near misses

Kathy Bryant woke up early Friday morning for her work shift at Burger King. Her goal was to leave before the severe weather storm hit. 

"I can't believe this," Bryant said while wiping her tears. "What they gonna do about this."

She returned to her home on Wailes Street near Railroad Square to a gaping hole. Her kitchen and living room space are now filled with debris and the trunk of a large pine tree that once sat outside her home. 

"Thank God my baby wasn't in here," she said of her granddaughter who occasionally stays with her overnight. 

Several of her neighbors gathered to help her collect her belongings including family photos and her insulin, which was trapped in what used to be her kitchen. 

She lived in the house for four years. Now she's unsure of what she will do. 

Damage was also extensive in the arborial Indianhead Acres, where fallen trees appeared to be blocking roads every 50 yards. One neighbor reported that a treetop near his house was snapped off, shorn of its branches and driven into the ground “like a pencil.”

The storm blasted buildings at Railroad Square, hitting the community of artists hard. It also sheared the nearby renovated Amtrak Station, peeling sheet metal and insulation off buildings and blowing it into College Town and nearby student housing. It wreaked havoc on Florida State University’s campus, damaging Dick Howser Stadium and knocking down the Flying High Circus tent.

The tent material was twisted around gnarled metal beams on the soaked ground. The circular bleaches were shattered in multiple spots with wires vining through everything.

It also damaged the cell communications network at points around town leading to failed calls and unsendable texts at a time loved ones were seeking updates.

The storm left parts of the rural Chaires community in tatters, with one resident off Old St. Augustine Road describing the neighborhood as “a war zone.” Shanna Matteo said first responders were going house by house to check on residents.

“Our houses are intact but the trees fell on a lot of houses and are blocking a lot of roads,” she said. “They are saying that this is extensive in Tallahassee and countywide. I am blessed that our houses are intact and there doesn't seem to be anyone hurt so far. This could have been so much worse.”

Schools scramble: 'The timing couldn't have been worse'

After a white-knuckle start to the school day in which the district tried to keep schools open, Leon County Superintendent Rocky Hanna took to X to speak directly to parents late Friday morning.

Hanna said the district felt "reassured" by forecasters last night that the capital city would be spared the brunt of the storm.

"The timing couldn't have been worse," Hanna said. "Unfortunately, right before 7 a.m., the alarms went off and we held our busses moved our kids into safety in the hallways."

The school district had hoped to open campuses on a case-by-case basis and even opened elementary schools, but the extent of the damage forced them to change course.

"There were just too many logistical obstacles to overcome," Hanna said.

He told parents crews would be working over the weekend to ensure schools could be open Monday.

Florida State, Florida A&M University and Tallahassee Community College closed their campuses in the wake of the storms. FAMU instructed employees to work from home.

FSU Alert, the campus emergency notification system, said the campus would shut down indefinitely. The university said essential employees may be required to report but that others should contact their supervisors.

"Following the completion of the first wave of storm assessments, it has been determined that the severe impact on campus necessitates the closure of the Tallahassee campus for business operations until further notice,” the university said. 

'Full activation': Long road ahead for recovery

As many city resident picked up the pieces from a brief but ferocious storm, Gov. Ron DeSantis took to X to thank responders and pledge the state's support in the recovery ahead.

"Following the severe weather that impacted North Florida this morning, I have directed the Florida Division of Emergency Management to work with local officials and do everything possible to return life to normalcy for our residents as quickly as possible," he wrote. "Thank you to the first responders and utility workers who are working on power and roadway restoration. Stay safe and heed instructions from  @FLSERT  and local authorities."

Kevin Peters, director of Leon County Emergency Management, said there was wind-based damage throughout the county and multiple reports of possible tornadoes. He said teams would will be going out in the near future to conduct damage assessments.

“The county has escalated to a full activation of the Emergency Operations Center to coordinate community-wide response and recovery,” Peters said.

Oliver, with the Weather Service, said meteorologists would got into the field once the weather passed to confirm whether the damage was caused by tornadoes. He said a firefighter in the Gaines Street area was among eyewitnesses who reported spotting a tornado.

“We’ll have to go out once it’s safe to do so to see what really happened and what moved through the city,” he said. “But we’ve had people call in saying that they actually saw at least one tornado.”

Journalists Kyla Sanford, Alaijah Brown, Ana Goñi-Lessan, Alicia Devine, Douglas Soule, and William Hatfield contributed to this report. Jeff Burlew can be reached at [email protected]

( Photo by Arturo Holmes/WireImage via Getty Images )

‘Dexter’ Star Michael C. Hall Lists His Elegant NYC Apartment for Almost $4M

Michael C. Hall , best known for his role in the long-running crime series “Dexter,” has listed his beautiful co-op in Manhattan for $3,750,000.

That’s less than the star paid for the place in 2017, when he handed over $4.3 million.

The charming prewar dwelling is in a historic building on the West Side, very close to iconic Central Park.

With three bedrooms, three baths, and 2,200 square feet, this classic New York City apartment boasts restored details from the 1930s—with modern touches, too.

(Realtor.com)

Gracious living

Billed as “pristine” and in “triple mint condition,” this grand art deco masterpiece was designed by the famous architect Emery Roth and is the epitome of gracious New York City living. A huge entryway, a 27-foot living room, high ceilings, and a fireplace with a hand-carved mantel are just some of the charming details in this refurbished gem.

French doors lead to a library or den, and there’s a large formal dining room and a windowed eat-in kitchen. The cook space offers quartz counters, custom cabinetry, and luxe appliances by Miele and BlueStar. The primary bedroom is also quite big and features two closets (one is a walk-in) and a bathroom with Italian marble and a glass-box shower.

Recent renovations offer upgrades to much of this abode, including the double-glazed casement windows; new AC units built into the wall; restored-oak, herringbone floors; and a laundry closet. Like many fancy co-ops, this building has all the expected amenities, such as a full-time staff of door attendants, an on-site manager, plus access to a fitness club, playroom, bike room, and even a half basketball court for pick-up games.

Hall has appeared in other popular TV series such as “Six Feet Under” and “The Crown.” In addition to his acting career, he’s an accomplished singer, performing with band Princess Goes since 2018. In 2021, the Golden Globe winner reprised his role as Dexter Morgan for the miniseries “Dexter: New Blood.”

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Guess what celeb played golf recently at West Palm's The Park? Hint: He lived in DC for 8 years

Yes, that was barack obama teeing it up at the park in west palm beach, accompanied by a lot of secret service golf carts..

WEST PALM BEACH — Of all the visitors West Palm Beach's immaculate new municipal golf course The Park has drawn in its first year of existence — local Tiger Woods hitting the inaugural tee shot and professional golfers Rory McIlroy, Max Homa, Lexi Thompson and Rose Zhang participating in Capital One's The Match — one name quietly teed it up a few weeks ago with no fanfare, but plenty of curious onlookers.

Former President Barack Obama got in a round at the spectacularly redesigned venue on a beautiful day, Friday, April 19, much to the surprise of other golfers.

"We were just out there playing and all of a sudden on an adjacent hole we hear all these golf carts rolling up," said one golfer, who did not want to be identified. "We're like, 'What is happening here?' Then we realize they are all (U.S.) Secret Service and we're watching Barack Obama tee off right next to us. Unbelievable."

Officials at The Park were mum on how it all came together and why Obama decided to play the West Palm Beach course. The former president could have picked any number of private courses in the area to play, but The Park has been a bucket list item for many out-of-staters.

Obama is a member of The Floridian National Golf Club in Palm City, where he has played with Woods, former NBA greats Michael Jordan and Alonzo Mourning and former NFL star and sportscaster Ahmad Rashad, among others. When he was president, Obama played Grande Oaks Golf Club in Fort Lauderdale, a private course that was the site of the 1980s comedy movie "Caddyshack."

It's not clear if Obama played anywhere else on his South Florida visit (although it's probably safe to say he didn't tee it up with former President Donald Trump).

After only a year, numbers show big turnout at The Park golf course in West Palm Beach

The Park has received rave reviews from national publications as a must-play public venue and the statistics after one year of play prove it has been a success. Since opening in April 2023, here are the first-year numbers, according to the course:

• There have been 41,360 rounds of golf played with 5,717 of those nine-hole rounds.
• There are 2,209 city resident golfers registered.
• There have been 8,521 caddied rounds of golf played.
• About 60% of the rounds have been walkers.

"Without a doubt, (the numbers) have far exceeded our expectations," said Brian Conley, The Park's general manager. "And the word we constantly hear from the golfers is 'fun.' That's really been comforting to us."

The course is spectacular to walk and because there aren't any water hazards, golfers won't lose a ton of balls with a bad round.

The facility is the product of a city-described public-private partnership that resulted from a handshake deal between Mayor Keith James and PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh, who said he raised more than $55 million to rebuild and endow the facility.

The new course is on the site of the former Dick Wilson-designed West Palm Beach Golf Course, which opened in 1947, and it is now considered among the best public courses in the state.

TNT's The Match drew more than a half-million viewers at West Palm's The Park

Another big jolt of publicity came in February when The Park hosted the ninth staging of Capital One's The Match under the lights.

Professional golfers McIlroy, Homa, Thompson and Zhang played a dozen holes for charity in front of a nationally televised audience with TNT NBA announcers Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley and others. McIlroy ended up the big winner, taking the $1.6 million final skin during a "wedge off" on the playoff hole.

Everyone raved about the Gil Hanse- and Jim Wagner-designed course that is known for its immaculate setting as well as its promotion of the game through youth and community programs. It was the first time The Match had been played at a municipal golf course and it averaged 511,000 viewers, including 160,000 female viewers, which is significantly higher than typical LPGA events, according to Sports Business Journal.

Conley said the course was one of three venues that officials from TNT/Time Warner, The PGA Tour and Excel Sports Management were considering and hopes the course can again host a future event.

"The course looked like magic on TV under the lights," Conley said. "And I think everyone was really happy with how it all turned out."

Could The Park ever host a future PGA or LPGA Tour tournament in West Palm?

One thing that isn't likely coming to The Park, however, is a PGA or LPGA Tour event, Conley assures.

"The course is not built for PGA professional golf tournaments," he said. "This course was built for the enjoyment of public golf. It's built to be fun. The architecture of it promotes good pace of play and overall enjoyment. It's not made for that."

And despite its rates — anywhere from $80 to $300 based on city resident discounts to peak season out-of-staters — it's been busy all season.

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Conley says the course has attracted many groups from the south and western part of the state, but that city registrants are still the big draw.

That creates competition for tee times, but Conley said things are slowing down just a bit as the winter and spring season comes to a close. To get the tee time you want, he suggests booking online, where the rates are better, at theparkwestpalm.com about a week out (tee times are available in a 10-day window).

"It's definitely busy and competitive (for tee times), but it's not a concert ticket. Everyone can get one," he said.

Even a former president of the United States.

James Coleman is a journalist at  The Palm Beach Post , part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at  [email protected]  and follow him on X (formerly known as Twitter) at  @JimColeman11 . Help support our journalism.  Subscribe today.