The History of Central Park

Central Park is one of the spots in New York City that has become a true icon representative of the city in which it resides. Most holidaymakers try to ensure that they make at least one visit to this iconic green space during the course of their holiday, and the park is not only popular with tourists but locals as well.



One of the most obvious attractions of Central Park is its unique position as a large green space in the middle of a busy, thriving city which appears to have no time for nature. The very fact that Central Park exists seems to be a bizarre counter point to everything that New York stands for; and yet, it's also a testament to humanity's need for natural spaces where a breath of fresh air can be gained, where peace and quiet can be had, and where the bustle of the busy city can be forgotten for a moment or two of relaxation.



Central Park was created in 1857 and expanded the next year until its size reached two and a half miles in length and half a mile wide, making a total of six miles around - which is partly the reason it's so popular with runners. In 1963, over a hundred years after its creation, Central Park was designated a National Historic Landmark and is maintained by the Central Park Conservancy, a non-profit organisation that works with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. Today, the park is the most-visited urban park in the United States of America, receiving around twenty five million visitors every year.

Visitors to Central Park will be pleased by the array of walks and activities on offer. There are many walking paths to enjoy, as well as two ice rinks, bridle paths, a summertime swimming pool, the Central Park Conservatory Garden, a wildlife sanctuary, Central Park Zoo and the outdoor amphitheatre where summer Shakespeare plays are shown. And that's just some of what visitors to this iconic park will find. There's also a large area of natural woods, the Belvedere Castle, numerous playgrounds for children and the historic Carousel.



Central Park is more than worth a visit when you're looking for something to do away from your New York luxury hotels - and it's ideal for all kinds of trips, whether you're travelling with a family looking for fun, on your own keeping fit, just looking for fantastic photo opportunities, or part of a couple seeking out romantic locations to enjoy with each other.