Thirty Minutes in Central Park

Thirty Minutes in Central Park

🌳 New York’s largest urban park, spanning 843 acres is a lush oasis in the heart of Manhattan. It boasts historic landmarks, artificial lakes, waterfalls, meadows, and wooded areas. Follow me on one of my favorite strolls through the southeastern corner of the park—from the Wien Walk to the iconic Boathouse. It’s a fun, densely packed, 30-minute walk covering 1.2 miles. Breezy!
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Start by exploring the southeastern corner of Central Park, where you'll find several iconic landmarks.

🏨 The Plaza Hotel 

Located at Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, is a historic and luxurious landmark. Built in 1907, it has hosted countless celebrities, dignitaries, and even fictional characters (remember Eloise?). The hotel’s opulent architecture and prime location make it a must-see for visitors.  

The Plaza
@janicehoffmann
It’s one of the most famous and luxurious hotels in the world and has two addresses, 768 Fifth Avenue and 1 Central Park South. There’s 181 apartments facing the north and east and 108 hotel rooms facing south.
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📕 The Strand Book Kiosk

The cute little bookshop was named after the London street where writers met and book publishers thrived. And the kiosk models the local book stalls on the Paris Left Bank.

❄️ The Pulitzer Fountain

An iconic landmark located outside of The Plaza Hotel and situated directly across the street from Grand Army Plaza & Central Park South. It’s named after the newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer who died in 1911 and left $50,000 for the creation of the fountain. When it’s not frozen over, it’s an excellent place to chill.

🚶‍♂️Wien Walk

You've entered the corner of the park. A perfect place to read a book and enjoy the lovely view.

Wien Walk
@janicehoffmann
Located at the southeast corner of Central Park. It's a charming path lined with benches and plantings.
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🕰️ Delacorte Clock

Pause to admire the whimsical clock near the zoo—bronze monkeys, musical animals, and all! 

Central Park Zoo
@janicehoffmann
Diverse wildlife and interactive experiences.
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🚶‍♂️The Willowdell Arch

Cross under the elegant sand-stone bridge which provides a scenic route for pedestrians traveling from the Mall toward Fifth Avenue. 

Balto Statue
@janicehoffmann
A heroic sled dog, played a crucial role during a diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska in 1925. In honor of Balto’s bravery, sculptor Frederick George Richard Roth created this lasting tribute.
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📚🌿Literary Walk & Mall

Stroll along the Mall, a wide, straight path lined with majestic American elm trees, flanked by statues of literary greats.

The Mall and Literary Walk
@janicehoffmann
It remains the sole formal feature of Olmsted and Vaux’s naturalistic creation, where visitors can stroll, admire statues, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the park.
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🌟Bethesda Terrace

Marvel at the grand arches and Angel of the Waters fountain. A true Central Park gem! 

Bethesda Fountain
@janicehoffmann
Iconic angel-crowned fountain and one of Central Parks beloved works of arts.
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⛵The Boathouse

You've reached the iconic Boathouse on the shimmering lake. Rent a rowboat or enjoy a quintessential NYC lunch or snack before you adventure onward. 

Central Park Boathouse
@janicehoffmann
Grab a sandwich or enjoy a cocktail by the lake. It's a beautiful place to relax and enjoy a meal.
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👀 Conservatory Water

Lastly, a beautiful and tranquil location in the park, complete with benches and a couple of food spots. It’s perfect for people-watching and enjoying the little model boats, reminiscent of the boat race in “Stuart Little.” 

Conservatory Water
@janicehoffmann
From spring through early fall, Central Park Model Yacht Club members race their boats at Conservatory Water on Saturdays from 10 AM to 1 PM.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Field-tripper and Licensed NYC Tour Guide. I live by the Hudson River's edge and on the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, and have a deep familiarity with various New York City neighborhoods, like Williamsburg in Brooklyn, and Harlem and the East Village in Manhattan. And for the last decade, I have photographed, written about, and explored block by block, some of the most fascinating streets in New York City. Unique places where you can savor the food, enjoy walking the city streets, and witness the culture of this historic and creative city.
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