Central Park

outdoor space

New York, NYShow map

New York, NYShow map

Overview

Enjoy a self-guided visit to New York’s iconic Central Park, an accessible green space with ponds, playgrounds and a zoo in the heart of an urban jungle. First opened in 1858, Central Park is a historic part of New York City and is a must-see for any tourist. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1963 and has been awarded many prizes for its innovative architecture and use of space. It welcomes over 42 million visitors annually. The park has many attractions, such as the Central Park Zoo, and you can also enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride or rent a bicycle to explore some of the lesser-known areas of the park. Many events take place in Central Park, from live shows to thematic lighting to guide rambles and tours. It’s also a great place to do sport or to lie on a picnic rug and take a moment to relax. The park is open from 6 AM to 1 AM daily. It is accessible for people with disabilities, with several wheelchair-accessible entrances and accessible restroom facilities. Many paths are wide and paved, with smooth flat surfaces, although some areas of the park have unpaved paths. Some playgrounds are also adapted for people with disabilities, with equipment such as adapted swings for wheelchair users.

Detailed information

Bathroom available
Yes, but it's not accessible

Guaranteed accessibility features

  • Accessible free entrance
  • Smooth
  • Accessible paths
  • Mainly flat surface

Know before you book

What you need

  • Park entrance

What is not included

  • Tour Guides

  • Assistants

  • Equipment rental

  • Ground transportation

  • Insurance

  • Tourist city taxes

Location

New York, NY, USA

Location

New York, NY, USA

Free admission

Frequently asked questions

The tours we offer are designed to accommodate all kind of disabilities. Our travel experts can help you find the right tour to meet your accessibility needs.

Yes! Just make sure to apply for a permit if your group is 20 people or more. You can apply for one through the NYC Parks Department.

Central Park is open to visitors 365 days a year. Central Park is open daily from 6 AM to 1 AM.

You can buy souvenirs at the Dairy Visitor Center & Gift Shop in Central Park. Belvedere Castle also offers maps and souvenirs of the park, as well as a kiosk during the warmer months at Columbus Circle. Charles A Dana Discovery Center has a limited selection of gifts as well.

Central Park has dining options ranging from food carts with snacks and drinks to sit-down restaurants and cafes. Some of the more popular spots include The Loeb Boathouse Restaurant, Tavern On The Green, Le Pain Quotidien, Leaping Frog Café, and Ballpark Café, to name a few. Please refer to Restaurants in Central Park page for more details.

Dogs are allowed, and welcome, in Central Park. They must be leashed in most areas of the Park (where signs are posted) between the hours of 9 AM and 9 PM.

Almost all entrances into Central Park are accessible for people with disabilities. Areas such as the Central Park Zoo, Tavern On The Green, The Loeb Boathouse and other main attractions are also accessible.

It is not possible to rent a wheelchair or mobility scooter in the park itself, but many rental stations are available in New York City and you can take wheelchairs and scooters into the park.