Few places on earth are as magical as Central Park. The 800 acres of green space in the middle of Manhattan is more than just a pretty natural oasis—it is the city’s playground! Central Park has an endless array of things for families (both locals and tourists!) to see and do throughout the summer. From picnicking in a grassy meadow to swimming in a pool; to exploring a hidden waterfall to taking a spin on a carousel, you could easily spend an entire day (or two!) exploring this nature oasis that is smack dab in the middle of one of the world’s largest cities. Read on as we discover 30 great ways to spend a Summer Day in Central Park with Kids.
1. Step into fun! Tiptoe across the charming stepping stones near Hernshed – and then climb the big boulder for a great view over the water!
2. Visit the beautiful “Three Dancing Maidens” fountain and stroll through the majestic Conservatory Garden.
3. Row row row your boat around Central Park Lake! Boat rentals are available at the Loeb Boathouse by the hour.
4. Turtle Power! Count the turtles in the aptly named Turtle Pond. Hundreds of friendly turtles call this pond home.
5. Be sure to say hi to Balto, the famous statue of the sled dog hero! The statue honors the famous fur friend who saved children by delivering medicine.
6. Grab a glove and play or catch a ball game at the Hecksher Baseball fields.
7. Dance over to the Delacorte Musical Clock near the Children’s Zoo entrance. The Clock’s dancing animal sculptures announce the time every half hour between 8 am and 6 pm.
8. Stroll around the Jackie Kennedy Onassis Reservoir – it’s the largest body of water in the park!
9. Watch marionettes dance and perform on stage at the charming Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater.
10. See the Strawberry Fields Imagine Mosaic, a tribute to the late John Lennon. There will often be a singer or guitarist playing a tribute with music.
11. See Alice and have tea time with her friends at the “meant-to-be climbed” Alice in Wonderland Statue.
12. Peep amazing art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (and tour the famous art and views on the rooftop)!
13. Storytime! Visit the Hans Christian Anderson Statue for a (free!) storytelling hour. The readings take place at the statue’s base on Saturdays at 11 am throughout the summer. (2022 schedule has not yet been announced- stay tuned!).
14. Enjoy a family brunch at Loeb Boathouse with a stunning view over the lake. There’s also a convenient grab-and-go cafe.
15. Pretend to be a prince or princess at the magical Belvedere Castle. Don’t miss the throne-shaped stones on the terrace!
16. Take a stroll through Shakespeare Garden and look for the bronze plaques with the poet’s famous quotes.
17. Have a wild time at the Central Park Zoo! Don’t miss the Tisch Children’s Zoo for animal meet and greets, and then swing by the 4-D movie.
18. Giddy Up! Visit the Horse Stables and saddle up for a Park ride on horseback. Kids can take riding lessons in Central Park starting at age six.
19. Take a spin on the historic Central Park Carousel. Built-in the 1800s, the carousel used to have horses and mules pull it from underground.
20. Toss a coin and make a wish at the famous Bethesda Fountain, and listen to the free performances on the terrace.
21. Take a Swim! During the summer, you can cool off in Central Park’s Harlem Meer Center (bonus- it’s free admission!).
22. Have a wheelie fun time exploring Central Park by bike. Bike rental companies offer serval options – such as children’s bicycles and fun cabooses.
23. The coolest place to be? Sheep’s Meadow on a sunny day. Pack a picnic and enjoy!
24. Play away the day! There are over 21 playgrounds in Central Park. Favorites include Heckscher Playground, Ancient Playground, and Billy Johnson (for its awesome granite slide action!). How many have you discovered?
25. Walk the famous Bow Bridge and wave to the rowboats that float underneath it. The bridge offers epic views of The Lake.
26. Dine in the Crystal Room or outside in the garden at the historic Tavern on the Green. There is also a grab-and-go cafe for a quick bite to eat.
27. Stroll the Central Park Mall to see the various performers. From musical bands to writers, singers to dancers – you’ll never know what you will discover!
28. Go for a climb! The giant boulders near Heckscher Playground and The Pond offer spectacular views of the city skyline.
29. Strap on some skates and boogie away the day at the (soon to open) Roller-Disco Experience, DiscOasis at Wollman Rink. It opens on June 16th!
30. Explore the Ramble, and keep your eyes peeled for the hidden waterfall! The bubbling stream and waterfall are fun places to play.
Bonus: A great starting point? Stop by The Dairy, Central Park’s historic information center and gift shop. Built-in 1870, This house used to be a source of fresh milk in the park. Today they help Central Park explorers navigate the park.
Happy Exploring!
