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Central Park
City dwellers need only to travel minutes to enjoy the sensation of being hours from the city.  This incredible 843-acre natural retreat provides a daily escape for millions and breaks up the stress of the daily commute and the monotony of never-ending blocks of buildings. The United States first public park was constructed between 1859 and 1870, and provided much-needed employment during an economic depression drawing much of the city's population into the upper areas of the island, which at that time were still quite rural. Nevertheless, designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux accurately predicted the hustle and bustle, and tactfully hid traffic from the eyes and ears of park-goers by building roads that are largely hidden. The park is filled with man-made lakes, 36 pedestrian bridges and arches, a multitude of sculptures and fountains, and 136 acres of wooded areas, all integrated in the natural rocky landscape. Some of the many statues scattered throughout the park are Alice in Wonderland, Hans Christian Anderson, Balto (dedicated to the spirit of sled dogs) and the Civil War Statue. This is the city’s party central, especially on weekend days. People come to play in the snow or enjoy the sun, depending upon the season; relax reading or sunning on the 8,968 park benches; couples stroll amidst the relaxing paths or paddle on the lake; dog owners throw Frisbees in the large open areas to their dogs; and joggers, in-line skaters, bicyclists and skateboarders are always in abundance utilizing the 58 miles of pedestrian paths and paved areas. For the romantic at heart, horse drawn carriages are available for an old-world ride through the area. Sponsored by the Central Park Conservancy, volunteer-led walking tours are available for those that would like to learn about the ecology and design of the park for no charge.
There are so many things to see in Central Park and listed below, is merely a smidgen of what there is to experience.  Tours are available to see "The Ramble" where more than 200 species of birds stop for a rest and a meal, where people escape the clatter of the city streets, and where a maze of pathways leads to a picturesque sight at every turn. Belvedere Castle is situated high atop Vista Rock complete with a pond and a king upon his mighty throne. Botany enthusiasts might enjoy touring the six acres of horticultural genius with a European flare, The Conservatory Garden. At the Cross Park Promenade miniature boats powered by the wind grace the lake, a magnificent sculpture and a beautiful fountain are just some of the views to be appreciated here. The Whitney Biennial offers many unique sculptures including a 50-foot stainless steel tree and bronze sculptures depicting monsters of Greek mythology. The Carousel in mid-park is a popular spot for both kids and adults alike. Central Park is an active person’s dream with the miles and miles of paths suitable for a variety of athletic activities. Go swimming at Lasker Pool or play lawn bowling or croquet at two beautifully kept fields. Follow the path George Washington took during the American Revolution and see the sites where fortifications for the War of 1812 were constructed. In the winter, there are 2 ice skating rinks open to the public, and cross-country skiing is very popular across the rolling hills. The youths and young at heart can enjoy activities such as basketball, football, soccer, baseball, softball, handball, street hockey and chess at the North Meadow Recreation Center, while the focused can fine-tune their strength, balance and flexibility on the unique state-of-the-art exercise equipment. Central Park's Tennis Center offers 26 clay and 4 asphalt courts for the tennis enthusiasts. Fishing is even allowed in several of the park’s bodies of waters on a catch and release basis only. Food and drink venues, along with restrooms and water fountains are conveniently located throughout the 843 acres. Come be a part of the 20 million people that enjoy Central Park’s relaxing 150 acres of bodies of water, 250 acres of lawns and 136 acres of woodlands each year.
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Writer: Denise C.
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[Must Visit]
Nearby Spots: TriBeCa · SoHo · East Village ···
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