Exploring Central Park
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Oh, how I love Central Park. When David and I were first scouting neighborhoods and apartments for our big move to NYC, I knew I wanted to live close to the Park. Little did I know our future Upper East Side apartment would be right next door. I honestly hit the jack pot! Letting myself wander and get lost is such a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, but there’s so much more! Here are some ideas if you need to get some fresh air in Central Park.
Walk the entire perimeter.
If you’re in the mood to just get out and walk, then walking the entire boundary of Central Park would be a pretty good use of your time. Measuring just about 6 miles, it’s an opportunity to see very distinct neighborhoods (Upper East Side, Midtown, Upper West Side, and Harlem) and countless landmarks. Get your steps in!
Have a picnic on the Great Lawn.
Obviously, this may have to wait until the Spring again, but it’s such a great way to spend an afternoon. Grab a blanket, pack a basket, and picnic al fresco on the Great Lawn. You’ll be able to take in the skyline and have some incredible people watching. Every year, the park also hosts a philharmonic concert here for a magical evening.
Visit the Central Park Zoo.
If you loved the movie Madagascar growing up, you can’t pass on this opportunity. Even though you won’t find lions, giraffes, or zebras, it’s a great family destination. The seal and penguins are such a treat! Just a short walk from the Plaza Hotel, you can enjoy an afternoon tea when you’re ready to return the Concrete Jungle.
Have your morning coffee in dog heaven!
In the spring and summer months, this became our weekend ritual. Grab a coffee from any of the Upper East Side coffee shops and head to Central Park. Our favorites are Ralph’s and Butterfield Express. With coffee and scone in hand, we would make our way to the Conservatory Pond. Normally known for it’s model sailboats, this is dog-lover heaven in the morning. Basically an unofficial dog park, you’ll see hundred of pups running around and living their best lives in the city.
Take in a show.
Throughout the year, there is no shortage of events and shows that take place in the park. There have been so many Saturday afternoon concerts being held in the park that I had no idea were even scheduled. Some are little pop-up shows and others are huge music festivals. The summertime also boasts Shakespeare in the Park. It’s an unforgettable and quintessential New York experience.
Catch a boat ride.
It’s almost impossible to escape this Instagram shot, but it doesn’t make it any less special. Renting a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse has become almost synonymous with the entire Central Park experience. For $15 an hour, you get out on the pond, see the city skyline from a new perspective, and get some stunning pictures in the process. Expect a crowd! My advice would be to get to the park as early as possible.
If you ask me, Central Park is one of the most cherished elements of the city. No trip to New York is complete without a visit. It has been such a huge source of inspiration since it was founded in 1853. Think of your favorite NYC based movie or show and I can almost guarantee Central Park is part of the equation. Why miss out on a good thing?
Love from NYC,
Katie
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