Essential mini guide to Central Park

No matter how high their offices soar it seems humans are drawn to open spaces and natural beauty. Amidst the urban sprawl of arguably the greatest concrete jungle in the world, rests a haven of peace and tranquillity. Central Park is a sanctuary of sanity, a bastion of beauty, an oasis of nature and verdant green in a city that turns black and shades of gray into fashion statements.

Space to explore

Spanning 843 acres, this masterpiece of landscaping has provided a retreat for New Yorkers since 1873. A trip to Central Park rarely disappoints. Around every bend and along each path a wanderer will find pleasant surprises. With all that space to explore it is hard not to find a new favourite spot on every adventure.

Try pondering life while floating in a secluded nook of The Lake in a boat rented from the Boat House on E 72nd. Don’t forget to admire the view from Belvedere Castle while listening to the Shakespearian actors practice in Delacorte Theater on 79th St. You could always admire the skills or the local climbers, or if you are brave try your hand at bouldering on Rat Rock on 59th St.

Change in seasons

The park changes with the seasons, but never ceases to delight. In the Winter it is a white wonderland with the scent of apple cider and the laughter of children ice skating mixing in the air. In the Summer it is hard to find a patch of grass not covered by a family picnic, sunbather, or footsore tourist.

Venue for culture

The park is also a centre of culture for the city. On any given day one can find live concerts, open-air theatres, and artists sharing their creations. Underneath the surface there are many subcultures who gather and meet. Runners, climbers, actors, bird watchers, musicians and more all call this park their own.

In a city that can be like sandpaper to the soul, Central Park is an unforgettable reminder of the timeless natural beauty of the world and our very human need to be surrounded by nature.

Contributor

Stephen is an experienced web guru, and die hard MacAddict who is applying his magic to this website and to the spreading of knowledge of his great little city. When not blogging, he is heavily involved in volunteer work, and hobbies such as surfing, rock climbing, and drawing.