Central Park is a New York City landmark that attracts millions of visitors throughout the year. While summer is the most popular season to visit, Central Park in winter is an enchanting place, especially if you are lucky enough to catch it after a snowfall. As a New Yorker, visting Central Park right after its snows has become somewhat of a traditon, and I have been known to wake up early or even take time off work to walk through Central Park to catch it looking magical with fresh snow on its grounds and trees.
Central Park is open year round for New Yorkers and tourists, though it tends to be less crowded in winter months. It offers a number of cold weather activities, such as ice skating and horse carriage rides. Horse carriage rides start from Central Park South, or 59th Street, while Wollman Rink and Lasker Rink offer ice skating surrounded by the park’s stunning winter landscape. For those who prefer to stay on solid ground, Central Park offers an unexpected place in the heart of NYC for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing if can visit after a snowfall.
Despite the cold temperatures, Central Park continues to be a must-see for anyone visiting New York City in the winter, especially give its points of interest such as Woolman Rink, Bow Bridge and Strawberry Fields.
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11 Fun Things to Do in Central Park in Winter
Central Park is an iconic landmark located in the heart of New York City. As one of the world’s most famous urban parks, it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. The park is open year-round, but it has a unique charm during the winter season, especially after it snows. It’s snow-covered landscape is a stunning sight to experience, and the park’s many attractions take on a new dimension. Even without the snow, Central Park in winter offers options such as ice skating at Wollman Rink, taking a stroll through the park’s many walking paths, visiting its notable spots such as Strawberry Fields, and attending winter events such as the Winter Jam festival.
1. Ice Skating
One of the most popular winter activities in Central Park is ice skating. Visitors can glide across the ice at either Wollman Rink or Lasker Rink, both of which offer skate rentals and lessons. Wollman Rink is located in the southern part of the park and boasts stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Lasker Rink, on the other hand, is located in the northern part of the park and is a bit quieter and less crowded, although it is underdoing renovation in winter 2023.
2. Horse Carriage Rides
Horse carriage rides are a given all year round, but they are especially popular in the winter with visitors snuggled under a blanket sipping hot cocoa as they make their way through Central Park. It is important to keep in mind that horse carriage rides can be pricey, so you should be aware of the price that is expected for the ride before committing to one.
3. Snow Activities
For those who love the snow, Central Park offers plenty of opportunities for snow activities such as sledding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing if you are fortunate enough to visit when it snows. There are several hills throughout the park that are perfect for sledding, including Pilgrim Hill and Cedar Hill.
If NYC has declared a snow day, every slope in Central Park is full of kids sledding, which is very fun to experience. All of Central Park transforms into a giant playground with children – and adults – sledding on every slope, and many a snowman to be found all over the park.
4. Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
Bethesda Terrace and Fountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Central Park. The terrace offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape which is beautiful to visit at any time of year. The ceilings inside the Bethesda Arcade are stunning, and the only place in the world where tiles made by the Minton Tile Company have been used as a ceiling.
After a snowfall, the terrace is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered trees and bushes, often a frozen lake, and a peaceful atmosphere.
5. Strawberry Fields
Visiting Strawberry Fields in Central Park during the winter offers a serene and reflective experience. The tranquil landscape, adorned with a Imagine mosaic memorial to John Lennon, provides a peaceful retreat amidst the winter scenery, allowing visitors to pay homage to the legendary musician just steps away from where he lived at the Dakota, and in a section of Central Park that he loved to visit.
December 8th every year marks John Lennon’s death anniversary, and it is a special day to visit with all the musical and other tributes that his fans gather to pay at Strawberry Fields every year.
6. Bow Bridge
Bow Bridge is the most photographed location in Central Park, and the site of many a wedding proposal at all times of the year. It offers a picturesque and enchanting experience in the winter, especially after a snowfall which enhances the bridge’s romantic allure, creating a stunning backdrop for leisurely strolls and capturing memorable moments amidst the winter wonderland.
7. The Ramble and North Woods
The Ramble and North Woods are two of the most scenic areas in Central Park where nature runs its course, and which are not landscaped like the rest of Central Park. They are an unexpected change from the park they are surrounded by, and offer a peaceful and tranquil escape from the city. During the winter, their woodlands offer a peaceful getaway with the winding maze of paths and trails in the Ramble, while the North Woods offers a more rugged and natural landscape.
8. Secret Christmas Pet Memorial Tree
There is a secret Christmas Pet Memorial Tree dedicated to the memory of pets that New Yorkers have lost in the Ramble, which reappears every winter with messages and tributes left for pets that New Yorkers have lost. The location is not published or publicized, but it is a well known tree, and the messages on it keep growing every year.
9. Central Park Zoo
The Central Park Zoo, run by the Wildlife Conservation Society, is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. The zoo is open all year round and has a variety of animals, including snow leopards, sea lions, and seals. During the winter season, visitors can watch the sea lions and seals play in the snow, which is a sight to behold. The Central Park Zoo also has the Delacorte clock with musical animals that announce the time set to music every 30 minutes during the day.
10. Birdwatching
Central Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 210 species of birds recorded in the park. During the winter season, visitors can spot a variety of birds, including cardinals, bluejays, sparrows and waterfowl. These birds can often be found on the frozen lakes within Central Park, which are a sight to behold.
11. Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater
The Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater is a great place for families to enjoy a puppet show during the winter season. The theater is located in Central Park and features a variety of shows throughout the year, including the winter. The theater is operated by the City Parks Foundation and features a team of talented puppeteers who bring the shows to life.
Planning Your Visit
Geographical Location
Central Park is located in the heart of Manhattan, bordered by 59th Street to the south, 110th Street to the north, Central Park West to the west, and Fifth Avenue to the east. The 843 acre park is easily accessible by public transportation, with numerous subway and bus lines running nearby.
Weather and Clothing
Central Park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, even during the winter months. Before visiting, it is important to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The temperature in New York City can drop below freezing in the winter, so it is recommended to dress in layers and wear warm, waterproof boots, hats, gloves, and scarves to stay warm and dry.
Operating Hours and Directions
Central Park is open 365 days a year from 6:00 am to 1:00 am. However, some areas of the park may have different operating hours, so it is recommended to check before visiting.
Visitors can enter the park from various entrances, including the East and West sides. The park is easily accessible by public transportation, with multiple subway and bus stops nearby.
It is advisable to use caution while visiting Central Park at night. In the winter, the sun sets very early so New Yorkers do venture into Central Park for a walk, run, or to walk their dog after dark, but only at reasonable hours and usually not late into the night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top activities in Central Park during the winter season?
Central Park is a winter wonderland with plenty of activities to enjoy. Visitors can enjoy its many points of interest, go ice skating or take a horse-drawn carriage ride, and if it snows, then activities like sledding and snowshoeing become options. The park’s open meadows and bridle paths are perfect for winter sports, while the park’s scenic beauty is a great backdrop for winter photography.
Can you go ice skating in Central Park in the winter, and where?
Yes, visitors can go ice skating in Central Park during the winter season. The Wollman Rink and the Lasker Rink are both popular ice skating destinations in the park. The Wollman Rink is located near the Central Park Zoo, while the Lasker Rink is located near the Harlem Meer.
Is the Central Park Zoo open in the winter, and what can visitors expect?
Yes, the Central Park Zoo is open year-round, including during the winter season. Visitors can expect to see a variety of animals, including snow leopards and sea lions. The zoo also offers special winter programs and events, such as holiday-themed animal feedings.
Are there any unique winter landscapes or scenes to capture in Central Park?
Central Park offers many unique winter landscapes and scenes for photographers to capture. The Bow Bridge, the Mall, and the Bethesda Fountain are just a few of the park’s iconic landmarks that look especially beautiful in the winter. Visitors can also capture stunning photos of the park’s frozen lakes and snow-covered trees.
What safety considerations should one keep in mind when visiting Central Park at night in winter?
Visitors should be aware of the park’s closing times and stay on designated paths and trails. It’s also important to dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear for winter weather conditions. Visitors should also be aware of potential hazards, such as icy patches on sidewalks and paths. It’s recommended to visit the park during daylight hours or with a group for added safety.
