Things to do in Central Park New York

By <a href="#author-bio">Stuart Bak</a>
By Stuart Bak
Published: May 16, 2024
Aerial view of Central Park, New York.

Central Park is the largest green space in Manhattan, attracting millions of visitors each year. Situated in the heart of the city, this public park serves as a meeting area for visitors and locals alike and stands as an emblem of New York City culture. Whether you’re looking to catch a rowboat on the lake, visit your favorite furry friends at the zoo, or watch classical theater in the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of reasons to love this urban oasis. So, if you’re thinking about exploring this area of the city, have a read through our comprehensive list of things to do whilst you’re there!

Hit the Classics

One of our favorite things to do in Central Park is taking a horse-and-carriage tour. A classic New York activity and total crowd-pleaser, the carriage rides at Central Park provide a great way to get to know the city. Along the way, you’ll pass by famous landmarks, beautiful greenery and movie sites. In addition, your tour guide will take you through the unique history, culture and architecture which makes New York New York. Don’t forget to bring your phone so you can capture the magnificent towering structures and interesting statues!

To appreciate the natural beauty of the park in all its glory, head over to the Conservatory Garden. Since its opening in 1937, the enclosure has been delighting visitors and locals alike with its spectacular floral displays and gleaming water lily ponds. The garden is made up of three areas, each with a distinct design: the French-style North Garden, the Italianate Center Garden, and the English-style South Garden. Take your time exploring and stop to check out the Vanderbilt Gate and Untermeyer Fountain.

Those travelling with family might want to check out Central Park Zoo. Since its opening in 1864, the institute has grown to become one of the most popular destinations of its kind in the city. Situated at the southeast corner of the park, the zoo seeks to provide an engaging and educational experience, with a focus on the restoration of endangered species populations. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to view over 130 species of animals and learn more about where they come from. Before you go, make sure that you check the schedule for penguin and sea lion feedings!

Take in the Views

Though Central Park is recognized as one of New York’s most beloved outdoor attractions, it’s home to many impressive and unique architectural marvels. Located at Vista Rock, Belvedere Castle is a total must-see for architecture buffs and history geeks alike. Visitors can take tours to view its stunning interiors, as well as an expansive collection of historic artefacts. In addition, this beautiful folly grants stunning views of Turtle Pond and Great Lawn, the Ramble, and the bordering cityscape.

See Central Park from a whole new perspective with the next item on our list. From April through to November, visitors can catch a rowboat to admire some of the park’s most picturesque sights. On the ride, you’ll be able to get a closeup of the gorgeous greenery, birds and butterflies, all flourishing in this unique manmade living system. Afterwards, why not grab a bite at the Loeb Boathouse restaurant whilst admiring the beautiful scenery? We couldn’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon!

If you’re visiting New York in the springtime, you might want to check out the cherry blossom trees, which should be in full bloom around this time of the year. The best place for cherry blossom peeping runs from 72nd street right through to 96th street, with the biggest clusters around the Reservoir, Cherry Hill and Pilgrim Hill.

Try Something New

After a long day of exploring, you’ll probably need to stop for some sustenance. Luckily for you, Central Park’s culinary offerings are next to none. Nestled in a quiet idyllic setting, Tavern on the Green serves as the perfect spot for visitors to enjoy a bite whilst taking in those captivating views. But what supports the restaurant’s popularity is the delicious food: grilled lobster and sweet pea risotto, roasted garlic shrimp, and oysters with Asian pear mignonette sauce. With its warm atmosphere, beautiful décor, and breathtaking scenery, this place is well worth the stop.

Central Park isn’t just a pretty face; in fact, it serves as a host to a wide variety of interesting and exciting activities. All throughout the summertime, Shakespeare in the Park works to bring first-class productions to a broad audience. Presenting classical theater against the wondrous backdrop of Central Park, this longstanding tradition provides a unique cultural experience to remember. A thoroughly remarkable and captivating experience, this one should be in everyone’s itineraries!

Another one of our favorite events held in Central Park is the New York Philharmonic. Each year, the event brings people together from all walks of life to enjoy live classical music right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a classic music maestro or a casual listener, the experience of one of America's most revered symphony orchestras playing against the backdrop of the starry night sky is a magical experience you won’t want to miss out on. We recommend taking your own food and drink, as well as a waterproof liner to sit on, since there is no official seating.

As one of the top New York attractions, Central Park perfectly embodies the city with its bustling atmosphere, historic architecture, and picturesque landscapes as far as the eye can see. The area itself is home to some one-of-a-kind structures, hidden treasures, and exciting activities which can be enjoyed all year round. In addition, you can find seasonal events and programs which are sure to blow your mind. During the springtime, check out the cherry blossom trees, and in the height of summer, enjoy classic music under the sparkling night sky.

To make the best out of your vacation, check out the New York Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram.

Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

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Fireworks & Fun: The Ultimate NYC 4th of July Guide

When it comes to the Fourth of July, New York City doesn’t just celebrate—it dominates. From riverfront fireworks that make the skyline glow to all-out block parties, outdoor concerts, and rooftop shindigs, there’s a perfect spot for every kind of traveler. Love history? NYC’s got you covered. Want barbecue with a side of skyline? No problem. Whether you’re dreaming of classic parades or looking to dance the night away atop a chic Manhattan terrace, you’re in for a holiday packed with thrills. Set your itinerary to party mode, because we’re sharing the best ways to make Independence Day in NYC truly unforgettable.  Our top ways to celebrate the 4th of July in NYC include:  Watch the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks  Take the Landmark Cruise by Circle Line  Visit Edge for panoramic evening views  Barbecue and picnic in Central Park  Grab a front-row seat on The Beast Speedboat Ride  Embrace classic Americana at a Yankees game  Enjoy a sunset cocktail at a rooftop bar  Stroll the High Line and nearby festivities  Dance at the Coney Island Luna Park beach party  Go for an afternoon at the American Museum of Natural History  Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks: The Main Event  No Fourth of July in New York is complete without seeing the famous Macy’s fireworks. For nearly 50 years, this dazzling display has lit up the East River, drawing crowds to waterfront parks and rooftops citywide. Expect an electrifying show—pyrotechnics launch from barges, painting the sky in choreographed bursts, all synced to classic and pop tunes. The atmosphere? Pure excitement, with families, locals, and visitors gathering hours in advance to snag that perfect patch of grass or a comfy spot on a blanket.  There’s something electric about the collective cheer when the show kicks off—everyone’s eyes lift skyward and all you hear are gasps, laughter, and maybe the clang of a street vendor’s bell. Some hotspots with stellar views include Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens, Domino Park in Brooklyn, and FDR Drive in Manhattan. Want a picnic view? Arrive early, pack snacks, and soak in the city vibe long before the first firework explodes.  Festive, mesmerizing, and totally New York in scale, this event turns Independence Day into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.  Edge: Sky-High Independence Day Thrills  If you’re all about elevation—literally—Edge is your Fourth of July jackpot. More than 1,100 feet above Hudson Yards, this sky deck gives you 360-degree views across the whole city and both rivers. On July 4th, the city gleams extra brightly: you’ll catch fireworks from all angles, plus panoramic sunsets, city lights, and the never-ending hustle below.  It’s more than just views. The glass floors create a bit of a thrill (yes, you can look straight down, if you dare), and there’s enough space to keep the experience comfortable, even at peak times. Grab a celebratory drink at the bar, watch the skyline turn golden at dusk, and then get ready for those fireworks to burst in front of your eyes. It’s a celebration that feels equal parts exhilarating and exclusive—you genuinely see all of New York come alive at once.  Pro tip: book your time slot before sunset, then linger until the city’s pyrotechnic display begins.  The Beast Speedboat Ride: Adrenaline and Applause  Craving July 4th with a rush of adrenaline? Hop on The Beast Speedboat Ride. This isn’t your average city tour—it’s a wild, 45-minute splash along the Hudson, with heart-thumping speeds, music blasting, and plenty of spontaneous whoops from every row. Grown-ups and kids love that you can see major landmarks (including a slow spin by the Statue of Liberty) glistening in the afternoon sun, with wind-tossed hair and maybe a misty surprise or two.  During the holiday week, there’s extra excitement in the air—tourists waving flags, boat captains cracking patriotic jokes, and the entire vessel pulsing with energy. It’s a fresh way to cool down and a fun contrast to the evening’s more relaxed activities. Don't be surprised if everyone breaks into a round of "Born in the USA" by the second turn.  Book early for July 4th rides—they fill up fast. Bonus: The pier’s close to the Hudson River Greenway, so you can keep the outdoor fun going after your ride.  Catch a Yankees Game: America’s Pastime in the Bronx  It doesn’t get more all-American than a ballgame on Independence Day. Yankee Stadium in the Bronx puts on a show that perfectly blends New York attitude with patriotic spirit—think roaring crowds, hot dogs, home runs, and plenty of fan singalongs.  The 4th of July game typically comes with pre- and post-game festivities, on-field honors, and (depending on the year) post-game fireworks. The energy is infectious, whether you’re there for the crack of the bat or the people-watching in the stands. For an authentic bite, don’t just settle for the regular dogs—try the garlic fries or chicken buckets for true stadium flavor.  Riding the subway up with fans decked in pinstripes, swapping game predictions, and feeling the stadium roar during a big play is a travel memory in itself. Even if you’re not a die-hard baseball fan, Yankee Stadium on July 4th offers pure Americana with a big-city twist.  Rooftop Bars: Toast to Freedom with Sky-High Cocktails  No city does rooftop revelry like New York, and July 4th is prime time to take your celebration skyward. Manhattan’s skyline offers a feast for the eyes, and dozens of rooftop bars host themed parties, DJs, and creative drinks all evening long. For knockout Midtown views, head to 230 Fifth and try their watermelon mojito out on the terrace. At The Crown in Chinatown, the dual terraces grant panoramic peeks all the way to Brooklyn.  Wander downtown to Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, where you can sip a signature Spritz and, if you’re lucky, catch views of two boroughs lighting up at once. Each spot feels buzzing yet welcoming—friendly crowds swap firework tips, bartenders shake up holiday specials, and, as the sky erupts in color, pretty much everyone’s a friend by the end of the night. It’s hard to beat those “cheers!” moments against a backdrop of glittering rivers and city lights. Just be sure to reserve ahead—rooftop spaces fill up fast on the fourth.  Looking to keep things family-friendly or a little more mellow? Rooftop bars in Brooklyn like Westlight or Time Out Market’s rooftop offer stunning vistas, great eats, and a local vibe. Whether you’re craving a lively dance or quiet toast, you’ll find the perfect perch to ring in Independence Day.  The High Line: Celebrate with Art, Greenery & City Views  If you’re after an urban adventure with style, the High Line delivers every summer—July 4th included. This elevated park built on a historic rail line runs from the Meatpacking District up through Chelsea, offering eye-popping views of the skyline, the Hudson, and the city’s summer flare.  Spend your afternoon strolling lush gardens dotted with modern art, or catch pop-up performances and food stalls that always seem to materialize on holiday weekends. The High Line hums with a festive spirit on July 4th: think picnic blankets, people-watching, and snacking on New York faves from nearby markets or from Chelsea Market below.  The best bit? As the sun sinks, the city starts to glow and, if you grab a west-facing spot, you’ll spot small fireworks—plus views of the bigger shows if you head toward 23rd Street. Need even more excitement? Edge is just a short walk away for an epic transition from park stroll to sky deck spectacle.  Luna Park, Coney Island: Beach, Thrills, and Boardwalk Fireworks  For pure summer nostalgia, make tracks for Coney Island. Luna Park, Brooklyn’s classic seaside amusement park, bursts to life every July 4th with carnival rides, games, and boardwalk energy. Spend your day plunging on the Cyclone, winning plush dinosaurs, or snapping selfies by the vibrant murals. The party vibes along the boardwalk beckon everyone—families, friends, and solo travelers in for a dose of sunshine.  It’s not just rides, though. The Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest draws wild crowds and has become a July 4th must-see for anyone who wants to witness competitive eating with a side of zany commentary. When the sun sets, Coney Island hosts its own fireworks show—grabbing a front row spot on the sand or the pier is the way to go. The party’s just steps from Luna Park, and you'll feel that electric hum as the whole beach lights up.  For food, tuck into a classic Nathan’s dog, piping-hot cheese fries, or sweet funnel cake as surf music drifts down the boardwalk. A totally different feel from Manhattan’s glitz—but every bit as festive.  American Museum of Natural History: Cool Off, Geek Out, and Celebrate  Need to escape the midsummer sizzle or a sudden NYC thunderstorm? Duck into the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)—a July 4th crowd-pleaser for families, science lovers, and movie buffs alike. Expect air conditioning, jaw-dropping dinosaur skeletons, dazzling gems, and exhibits that fuel your inner adventurer.  Wander the halls to discover the great blue whale, meteorites from space, and dioramas packed with wild critters from every continent—each gallery buzzing with the kind of awe that fits the spirit of Independence Day. The Rose Center for Earth and Space thrills with cosmic light shows and interactive displays, and their rotating special exhibits often tie back to American innovation and exploration.  On July 4th, the AMNH feels lively but not overwhelming, with plenty of chances to catch your breath or take a break in the leafy Theodore Roosevelt Park outside. It’s within walking distance to both Central Park and plenty of classic delis—so you can sandwich culture between outdoor holiday fun, and vice versa.  Sunset Walks and Free Festivities Around Town  Not every New York July 4th adventure needs a ticket or a table—some of the most memorable moments are free. As dusk falls, make your way to Brooklyn Bridge Park or the piers in Lower Manhattan for riverside strolls and unbeatable sunset views. The edges of Battery Park come alive with local families, casual musicians, and evening food vendors. As the sun drops, everyone turns their gaze toward the horizon, anticipating those sky-filling fireworks.  For a hyper-local way to celebrate, keep an eye out for street festivals and live music in neighborhoods like Williamsburg, Harlem, or Astoria, where barbecues spill onto stoops and DJs play right out of bodegas. Sometimes the best move is just to amble, absorb the city’s energy, and let yourself be swept into whatever impromptu party you find.  Happy 4th of July, NYC Style!  There’s no one way to celebrate the Fourth of July in New York City—and that’s the magic. Whether you crave all-night dancing, laid-back picnics, sightseeing from dizzying heights, or the pure joy of fireworks over the greatest skyline in the world, this city rolls out the red, white, and blue carpet for you. So bring your sense of adventure (and maybe a folding chair), and get ready for a July 4th you’ll always remember.  Enjoyed this? Check out the tourist traps to avoid, and the best walking tours in the city.  Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®    We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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King Kong Returns to the Empire State Building!

The Eighth Wonder of the World, a.ka. King Kong has returned to the Empire State Building. Not only is he the inspiration for a brand new Broadway show, but he’s also back where he belongs. The 86-year-old giant ape that first tormented the Big Apple in 1933 has returned with a vengeance in the form of an interactive exhibit at the iconic Empire State Building. Kong is a part of the new ESB museum that opened last week - a fun extension of the recently revealed tech-driven observatory entrance at 20 West 34th Street.   How to see King Kong at the Empire State Building To experience Kong in all his glory, guests can enter a thirties era office designed in line with the building’s Art Deco sheen. The most unnerving aspect of this room are the broken windows showing two giant ape hands reaching into the building. King Kong himself peeps in through the window via a video installation as he climbs to the top of the skyscraper. The new museum is another exciting phase of the building’s $165 million renovations, which includes a new lighting ceremony installation and digital hosts. Work is expected to wrap up by the end of this year. In addition to the King Kong exhibit, the museum looks at the history and cultural impact of the 45th tallest building in the world. The Empire State Building has popped up in over 250 TV shows, and films: the building’s first appearance was in, you guessed it, King Kong. These two icons go way back.   The Museum Be sure to check out these immersive experience featured across its nine galleries. Admission tickets ensure access to the new second-floor immersive exhibits; as well as entry to the iconic 360-degree view open air Observatory: The Site in the 1920s Starting at its very beginning, black and white photos show the empty site of the original Waldorf Astoria Hotel before the skyscraper’s construction began. Through building surveyors, Guests can look in and see the New York City streets of the late 1920s come to life in full color. Construction Step into the past with moving photographs based on the work of Lewis Hine. Visitors can also interact with specially commissioned cast sculptures of construction workers as they work and take their lunch break. Modern Marvel Creating a safe space for the environment is precisely what the building aims to achieve. The Modern Marvel exhibit outlines the specific measures taken to make the Empire State Building a world leader in sustainability. Otis Elevators Otis Elevators designed the original elevators for the 102 floors. Walk through a simulation of an actual elevator shaft in this dedicated exhibit from Otis Elevators. It showcases not only how the original elevators operated, but the latest technology installed in the newest elevators. With more than 10 million tenants and Observatory Guests each year, these enduring machines are truly fascinating feats of engineering. Urban Campus Most visitors aren’t aware that the building houses tenants from airline offices to tourist boards. The Urban Campus display offers a glimpse into some of the significant tenant spaces, amenities, and hidden views of the building. World’s Most Famous Building An original score has been created especially for the exhibit. Guests are free to explore the space, surrounded by more than seventy screens displaying ESB’s starring role in pop culture. These have been sourced from every decade since the 1930s with movie posters and clips. King Kong Stroll into an office from the 1930s where the famous giant ape’s fingers reach through the walls. Just like the classic movie, he dangles from the building and dodges vintage bi-planes. Those feeling brave enough can step into Kong’s hands for the ultimate Instagram post. Celebrity Many famous faces from around the world have graced the windy observatory atop the ESB. This exhibit highlights some of the most-famous visitors (athletes, musicians, actors) to the attraction. Their images and signed memorabilia adorn the walls. Guests can stop to admire these as they head to the elevators that will take them to their next stop: NYC: Above & Beyond on the 80th Floor. The museum is open from 8 AM to 2 AM, seven days a week. Get down there and meet Kong for yourself!   Need more inspiration on things to do in NYC? Grab a New York attraction pass and you'll save on all of the best New York attractions around!
Suz Pathmanathan
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Things to do in New York When it Rains

Rain; the burden of humanity. For millennia we've built roofs to keep it out, and created devices to keep it from touching our delicate skin. While you may be tempted to stay in when the heavens open, why let an entire weekend go to waste? Get out there and see what things there are to do in New York when it rains. Don't worry about the research; we did all that for you. Simply scroll down and learn all about the best things to do in New York when it rains! Including: American Museum of Natural History Madame Tussauds New York & MARVEL Universe 4D New York's amazing art museums Escape Virtuality Area 53 and more! Get historical, naturally What better way to dodge mother nature's shower than dipping into a museum? New York's full of the beauties, but we'd recommend the American Museum of Natural History. Why? Well, because it has freaking dinosaurs. What else do you need? The site of the famous Night at the Museum movies, inside you'll find one of the biggest collections of dinosaur bones on the planet. But of course, there's much more than just that. How does a 94-foot whale model sound? Equal parts awe-inspiring and terrifying? Absolutely. How about a giant, 2000-year-old sequoia tree? Brilliant. Why not top things off with a 563-carat sapphire named the 'Star of India'? Yes. All that and much more awaits you in one of the world's premier museums. So why wait? Easily one of the best things to do in New York when it rains.   Rub waxy shoulders with the stars Hollywood has become somewhat synonymous with plastic surgery. The ever-evolving need to reach perfection has resulted in generations of body augmentation. But if you think Hollywood is plastic, wait till you get a glimpse of the static stars at Madame Tussauds! Everyone's favorite fame celebration is here, letting you snap photos with all the stars. And best of all, there won't be a streak of blur in sight! Throw gang signs with Donald Trump, hop on E.T.'s bike without his permission, and mingle with other people who do acting! And, for you superhero fans out there, you can also attend Marvel Universe 4D, an immersive cinema experience that brings your favorite spandex-wearing heroes to life. And best of all, it's all inside! If it wasn't, would the famous people melt? Who knows? Get some much needed culture in you Speaking of ducking the rain, why not fill your mind while doing it? We're talking art, ladies and gentlemen, and New York's got more art museums than you can shake a brush at. Let's start with the Museum of Modern Art — or 'MoMA', because you've got to love an acronym in this day and age. It's one of the most influential modern art museums in the world, with a fantastic collection of contemporary pieces housed within its delightful walls. See the likes of van Gogh's 'Starry Night', and Warhol's 'Soup Cans' up close. And take photos aplenty, of course. Or, go check out the famous Guggenheim, another brilliant collection of works from artists around the world. With big hitters like Picasso, Manet, Cézanne, Gauguin, and Renoir on show, you're bound to find something inspirational within its beautifully-designed walls. Or, for more modern art from more alive artists, go hide in the Whitney Museum of American Art. Focusing on active artists from the US, it helps ensure the American art scene survives and thrives throughout the years. And who knows, maybe you'll discover the next big thing there, or find your new favorite artist? Whichever you decide to go to, having your mind blown at one of New York's art museums is definitely one of the best things to do when it rains in the city. Reality, but virtually better What better way to avoid the reality of a rainy day in New York than to escape our reality completely? Discover new, exciting realities via a funky headset at Escape Virtuality - NYC's biggest and best virtual reality fun house! Challenge a friend, or a stranger, to a myriad of sports, activities, and other immersive experiences. Glide down a mountain on skis, or run from monsters in a haunted house. Climb a sheer cliff, jump out of a plane, or hop behind the wheel of a souped-up racecar. Let your imagination come to life, thanks to the movement replication of Escape Virtuality's ergonomic setup. Feel every hill, every fall, and every turn. It really has to be seen to be believed, so go and get your mind blown on the next rainy day!   Area 51-adjacent Sometimes, the thrill of outdoor adventure is too good to pass up. We all have to get extreme sometimes, right? But if you're averse to a little downpour, you needn't throw cold water over the idea. Instead, head to Area 53 - New York's funner, safer alternative to Nevada's secret UFO base. Whether you're with friends, family, or planning a date, Area 53 has a wealth of fun activities on offer. Take your chances on the ninja course, try and escape the laser maze, bomb it down slides, or go head-to-head in the Battle Beam arena (think laser tag meets foam party). All that and much more awaits you at Area 53. Oh, and if you're looking for some kid-free fun, they also host over 21s nights with no rascals and sight, and a packed bar to boot. Secret drinks Let's round off our list of the best things to do in New York when it rains with a more refreshing downpour. We're talking bars, but not just any bars. Nope, today let's talk about secret speakeasies. Like many big cities these days, New York has seen the recent craze of faux-speakeasy slash cocktail bars hit its shores. So why not duck out of the rain and dive into a drink or three? La Noxe is one such place, and you'll find it tucked inside the 28th street subway station. Along with its rather diverse and affordable cocktail menu, you'll find a delightfully low-key ambiance, tapas bites, and smooth tunes in the background. Or, head to The Little Shop in Lower Manhattan. On first glance, it looks like your average convenience store, with snacks, household items, and other necessities on offer. However, head to the back, and you'll make your way into a secret speakeasy with a brilliant drinks menu. Your discovery will be the talk of the water cooler come Monday. And finally, pop into Attaboy, snuggled secretly into an often-overlooked part of Eldridge Street. This little speakeasy even has merch if you want to represent, and a patio - when the weather clears up. And that's our list of the best things to do in New York when it rains! With so many New York attractions to check out when the heavens open, why not see them all without breaking the bank? Grab a New York Pass and you can do just that.   
Dom Bewley
Empire State Building Observatory
Edge

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