Free things do near Central Park

Free things do near Central Park

Explore vibrant free attractions near Central Park and enjoy New York's best experiences without a cost.

Uncover fabulous, free activities near Central Park with this guide.

Welcome to the heart of Manhattan, where Central Park offers more than just picturesque scenery. The surrounding area teems with vibrant and diverse attractions that won’t cost you a cent. From historic landmarks to cultural treasures, these experiences complement your visit to Central Park while keeping your wallet happy. So, lace up your walking shoes, and let's explore the top free things to do near this urban oasis! 

Central Park Walking Tours 

Embark on a free walking tour to discover Central Park’s rich history and hidden gems. Guided by enthusiastic locals, these tours offer fascinating insights into the park’s design, iconic landmarks, and quirky stories. Wander through picturesque paths, learn about the park's creation, and uncover stories of its impact on New York City. Whether you're discovering Belvedere Castle or the tranquil beauty of The Ramble, these tours offer a comprehensive and engaging way to connect with the park's charm. The friendly guides ensure you experience Central Park in a whole new way. 

The Mall and Literary Walk 

Stroll down The Mall, a stunning tree-lined promenade leading to Literary Walk. Flanked by statues of renowned writers, this picturesque area is a favorite gathering spot. The shady trees create a welcoming pathway perfect for a leisurely walk or an inspired break. The area often hosts performers, adding a lively atmosphere to your adventure.  

Bethesda Terrace and Fountain 

Bethesda Terrace and Fountain form the heart of Central Park, providing a grand view over the lake. Designed with elaborate carvings and mosaics, the terrace is an architectural masterpiece. The fountain, with its striking “Angel of the Waters” sculpture, is a popular photo spot that’s featured in myriad TV shows and movies. Enjoy live performances under the beautiful arcade, often filling the air with music. Whether you’re capturing photos or simply enjoying the ambiance, this spot is a Central Park highlight. 

Alice in Wonderland Statue 

Alice in Wonderland Statue 

The Alice in Wonderland statue offers a whimsical escape for all ages. This playful sculpture invites climbing and exploration, featuring Alice, the Cheshire Cat, and other beloved characters. Located near Conservatory Water, it's a favorite with families and provides delightful photo opportunities. Children and adults alike enjoy its imaginative charm, making it an engaging and interactive spot. It’s a lovely tribute to literature’s whimsical side, nestled in an idyllic setting. 

Strawberry Fields 

Strawberry Fields stands as a living tribute to John Lennon, offering a peaceful spot for contemplation. Located near the Dakota Apartments, this area features the iconic "Imagine" mosaic, often adorned with flowers. Visitors from around the world gather here to honor Lennon’s legacy, creating a sense of global community. It’s a beautifully curated Garden of Peace that resonates with both music fans and those seeking solace in a bustling city, embodying a spirit of unity and hope. 

Belvedere Castle 

Perched atop Vista Rock, Belvedere Castle provides panoramic views of Central Park and beyond. This charming mini-castle is a beloved landmark, offering a unique vantage point for photography and birdwatching. The structure’s romantic design echoes European influences, enhancing its fairytale-esque aesthetic. Inside, interpretive displays offer insights into the park's natural world. Whether you’re admiring the architecture or soaking in the views, Belvedere Castle adds a touch of magic to your Central Park visit, making it a must-see stop for discovery and enjoyment. 

The Conservatory Garden 

The Conservatory Garden offers a serene escape with its meticulously designed landscapes. Divided into three sections, it features French, Italian, and English garden styles. Enter through the Vanderbilt Gate and immerse yourself in beauty. It’s a tranquil setting for enjoying seasonal blooms, elegant fountains, and diverse plantings. Each section provides a unique experience, inviting visitors to wander and appreciate artful horticulture.  

The Great Lawn

The Great Lawn

The Great Lawn, located in the park's heart, is a sprawling green space ideal for relaxation and recreation. This beloved spot hosts free events like the New York Philharmonic concerts and open-air theater performances. With expansive lawns, it encourages picnicking, sunbathing, and communal gatherings. Surrounded by footpaths and trees, it offers a welcoming escape where visitors can connect with nature and enjoy leisurely activities. The Great Lawn embodies Central Park’s communal spirit, providing a vibrant and inviting venue for locals and tourists alike. 

Turtle Pond 

Turtle Pond is a charming haven that lives up to its name. Home to various turtle species, this small body of water offers a peaceful setting for wildlife observation. Located near Belvedere Castle, the pond is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a soothing backdrop for relaxation. Families and nature lovers enjoy the serene surroundings, watching turtles basking on rocks or swimming gracefully. It’s a gentle reminder of the park’s, and our planet’s, biodiversity. 

Shakespeare Garden 

Shakespeare Garden covers a quaint hillside with plants mentioned in the Bard’s works. This beautifully arranged garden, near Belvedere Castle, offers charming paths and rustic benches. During the flowering season, it bursts with color, showcasing the delicate blooms of forgotten times. The garden’s enchanting ambiance transports you to another era, providing a quiet corner for contemplation.  

Cleopatra's Needle 

Cleopatra's Needle is an ancient Egyptian obelisk standing proudly in Central Park, making it the park's oldest human-made structure. Its hieroglyph-covered surface dates back to over 3,000 years ago. Set behind The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the obelisk provides a fascinating glimpse into history and culture. Visitors marvel at its journey from the banks of the Nile to this urban paradise. The surrounding area offers a quiet spot for reflection and learning, contributing an element of historical intrigue to your Central Park exploration. 

The Dairy Visitor Center 

The Dairy Visitor Center 

The Dairy Visitor Center, a charming Victorian structure, once served as a refreshment stand. Now, it acts as a visitor center providing information and educational resources about Central Park. Stop by for maps, exhibits, and park-related merchandise. The architecture and historical photographs offer a window into the park’s past. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a great starting point to plan your visit. Engaging staff members are ready to share insights and stories, ensuring you explore Central Park with newfound appreciation and understanding. 

Gapstow Bridge 

Gapstow Bridge offers a picturesque scene that many will recognize from movies. This stone arch bridge spans a tranquil pond, framed by sweeping views of the skyline and surrounding greenery. It’s a place where photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike gather. The bridge connects landscapes beautifully, enhancing the park’s enchanting allure. Whether you're capturing images or simply enjoying the view, Gapstow Bridge offers a peaceful retreat, inviting you to linger and soak in the beauty of this iconic park setting. 

Sheep Meadow 

Sheep Meadow is an expansive, open space perfect for relaxing, picnicking, and people-watching. It’s a favorite spot for locals to unwind under the sun, with plenty of room for sports and leisure. The meadow’s peaceful environment, with the skyline as a backdrop, offers a sense of openness rare in the city. Gather with friends, lay out a blanket, and enjoy the vibrant community spirit that thrives here. It’s a quintessential spot for embracing the laid-back side of New York City living. 

 

For more, see our 4-day NYC itinerary, and make the most of your evenings in the Big Apple. 

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®.  

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. 

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® - just choose a pass to get started! 

Powered by AI

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Continue reading

Afternoon tea
Blog

The ultimate guide to celebrating Mother’s Day in NYC

New York has the perfect Mother’s Day experience for every kind of mom, whether she loves art, afternoon tea or adventure.
Blog

A Guide to the High Line in New York City

The High Line is one of the world’s most unique public parks. The park in New York City is made from reclaimed elevated rail running above Manhattan’s West Side. It was originally slated for destruction after remaining unused for decades. But locals and the city decided to repurpose the stretch of rail for public benefit. They opened the High Line in 2009. Today, it’s one of the more unusual tourist attractions in NYC, but it’s also becoming increasingly popular with visitors. If you’re looking for a quick guide to the High Line NYC, we’ve got you covered. When is the High Line Open? As a public park, the High Line does have regular operating hours. These vary seasonally, with the longest hours in the summer months. Regardless of the time of year, the park is open at 7 am every day, including weekends. Gansevoort Street – 17th Street Tiffany & Co. Foundation Overlook (at Gansevoort St.). This dramatic overlook marks where the original rail line was taken apart in the 1980s to make way for construction. Whitney Museum of American Art: Located just east of the overlook, this popular museum features over 21,000 modern works of art. Donald Pels & Wendy Keys Gansevoort Woodland (between Gansevoort & 13th St.): A lush garden space filled with striking flora, this is a great spot for photos. 14th Street Passage (between 14th St. & 15th St.): A quasi-enclosed passageway, here you can find an original video series on display at dusk each evening. Diller-Von Furstenberg Sundeck & Water Feature (between 14th St. & 15th St.): This water feature marks the spot where water tended to gather during the days when the High Line was still a railroad track, drawing inspiration from life. Chelsea Market Passage (between 15th St. & 16th St.): Running right along the iconic Chelsea Market, this section of the park is the perfect place to descend if you’re looking for a snack or souvenir. Chelsea Market: This expansive complex is beloved for its food hall. It is brimming with vendors selling everything from cheese and wine to coffee and bread. There’s also a retail component with many popular and hyper-local options. Northern Spur Preserve (at 16th St.): This section of the park honors the indigenous plants that grew on and around the High Line before it was converted into cultivated parkland. 10th Avenue Square & Overlook (at 17th St.): Featuring a giant “window” down onto 10th Ave., this area also encompasses an amphitheater with public performances. 21st Street to 34th street Chelsea Thicket (between 21st St. & 22nd St.): Another piece of wilderness brought to downtown Manhattan, this section of the New York High Line boasts a variety of dense trees and shrubs indigenous to the region. 23rd Street Lawn & Seating Steps (at 23rd St.): A great spot for picnics, this elevated lawn area is also home to many local art installations like a massive mural that changes each year. Philip A. and Lisa Maria Falcone Flyover (between 25th St. & 27th St.): Designed specifically to allow visitors to encounter larger trees like magnolias and sassafras, the path elevates several feet above the rail line. 26th Street Viewing Spur (at 26th St.): A great place to get views of the city below, and gain perspective on your position relative to the bustle. Crossroads (at 30th St.): This is the widest section of the High Line Greenwich and therefore often the most accessible to those wanting to sit for a bit. It’s also where the High Line switches from a North-South orientation to an East-West one. Spur (at 30th St. & 10th Ave.): The final section of the original trail to be converted to park space, the public art here is spectacular—keep an eye out for the High Line Plinth! Pershing Square Beams (at 30th St.): A delightful place for the little ones to play, the exposed steel beams have been coated in a safe silicone surface, turning them into a playground. Interim Walkway (between 30th St. & 34th St.): Stop here for panoramic views of the Hudson River. Stay for the wildflowers and uncultivated plants. CSX Transportation Gate (at 34th St.): The only point at which the High Line New York hits street level. This is where you can most easily access it from downtown Manhattan. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity or use the hashtag #GoCity in your vacation photos and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination too!
Katie Sagal
Blog

Tips for Visiting the Statue of Liberty – Discount Tickets & More

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are among the most iconic landmarks in all of New York. Both represent an important period in the history of immigration in this country. They reflect the long-held ideal of America as a safe haven for all who seek liberty and freedom. The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Ellis Island was once the home of the primary immigration center in the United States. Today, it is a fascinating museum. Head to both of these top attractions on a fun ferry ride and spend an educational afternoon with the whole family. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the both the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. Looking for Discount Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferry Tickets? We’ve got you covered - ferry tickets for the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island are available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that's right for you: The below options include a ferry ticket, audio tours, and access to the grounds of both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. 1. Explorer Pass - Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 10 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass - Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note: tickets to access the Pedestal and Crown of the Statue of Liberty are not included with the Explorer Pass. If you wish add access to those parts of the statue, you will need book Crown Reserve tickets and/or Pedestal Reserve tickets separately. Make reservations as soon as possible as space is limited and tours often sell out months in advance. Top Statue of Liberty Facts Tips for Your Upcoming Visit You may use either two of the ferry departure points for your trip. Battery Park in New York - departs every 25 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) Liberty State Park in New Jersey - depearts every 40 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) If time is a concern, then we strongly encourage using the Liberty State Park, New Jersey location for faster processing, boarding, convenient access and ample parking. Save on Statue of Liberty Ferry Tickets with the New York City Explorer Pass®. If visiting using an Explorer Pass, you must pick up your ferry boarding pass before entering the security line. All visitors are required to pass through a mandatory airport grade security screening, so be prepared for a long wait. We suggest arriving early in the morning. Allow at least 2 hours to visit one island and 4 hours to visit both islands. Bring your camera. You'll want to take pictures of the Statue of Liberty from the shore, from the ferry, and from up close on Liberty Island. A limited number of wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis for no fee from the National Park Service. Visiting the Pedestal or Crown of the Statue of Liberty requires a reservation. Book well ahead to ensure availability the day you want to visit. When is the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty? What should I bring to The Statue of Liberty? There are a number of limitations on what is permitted on either island, so it’s best not to bring much if you want to avoid paying for a locker. You won't be permitted to bring large bags, and backpacks and strollers are not allowed at the Pedestal and Crown areas of the Statue. You'll have to put everything except your camera and medication inside a locker beforehand. Some things you you plan to bring include: Camera - You'll take a lot of photos trying to capture the statue from every angle. Don't forget to take photos of the NYC skyline, too. Money for souvenirs Comfortable shoes - Most of the visit will be on your feet. The boat deck can be slippery, so wear shoes with good traction. If you're visiting the pedestal or crown, you'll need shoes that are safe for climbing stairs. On Ellis Island, the Hard Hat Tour prohibits sandals or open-toed shoes. Dress for the weather - Much of the visit is outdoors, so come prepared with the layers you need to stay warm. Sunscreen - You will likely be waiting in long lines outside. What are things to do at Liberty Island? Self-Guided Audio Tours Self-guided audio tours are included with every ticket for both the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, with special tours for children and those with vision impairments. The Audio Tours are available in different languages including Arabic, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish. If you'd like to be able to ask questions while you explore, there are ranger-led tours at both islands as well. The Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty A Pedestal Tour includes access inside the Statue of Liberty Pedestal and the Statue of Liberty Museum. The lowest part of the Statue of Liberty, just above the lobby, the Pedestal forms the base of the Statue. Be sure to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum on the second floor to learn all about the history and heritage of the world’s most famous statue. The pedestal's observation deck offers panoramic views of the harbor. The pedestal is partially wheelchair accessible, with elevator access part of the way up. There are 215 steps to the top of the pedestal for those who choose to climb. The museum presents the history of how France and the United States cooperated to erect the statue and exhibits the original torch. Remember: Statue of Liberty Pedestal tickets are separately ticketed. The Crown of the Statue of Liberty The Torch Exhibit Featuring the original torch (which was actually replaced in the 1980s) and a number of drawings, and photographs depicting this iconic symbol of freedom, this exhibit is a good replacement for not being able to ascend to the torch itself. Things to Do at Ellis Island Ellis Island Immigration Museum With nearly 400,000 artifacts and over 1 million archival records, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is an expansive collection of historical records pertaining to the millions of immigrants who passed through this island on their way to a better life. Search the American Family Immigration History Center’s databases in person at Ellis Island or online before you go. The museum's exhibit "Journeys: The Peopling of America" presents the immigration experience before Ellis Island opened and after it closed, but the museum emphasizes the arrivals process experienced by immigrants to the United States at Ellis Island. Begin in the Baggage Room, where immigrants checked their bags after disembarking their ships. Upstairs, the Registry Room and the Hearing Room are where immigrants were examined before being granted entry to the United States. The Dormitory Rooms, where travelers who were briefly detained stayed overnight, host special exhibits. Peopling of America Center This is a must-see on your trip to Ellis Island. This exhibit space tells the story of immigration to America before the opening of Ellis Island in 1892. It explores the way immigration works today following the closure of the Island in 1954. These galleries follow the lives of real immigrants as they make their way into the United States and try to build a new life for themselves. American Family Immigration History Center For those of you with a particular interest in your family’s history, this Center is going to be a real treat. Get a chance to explore the entire archival collection of immigration arrival records at Ellis Island and search for your ancestors. Search by passenger record, ship manifest, and ship information. Have any family on the Wall of Honor? Search for the location of their name with the Foundation’s Search the Wall. Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour The Hard Hat Tour takes visitors on a 90-minute tour of the South Side of Ellis Island. The tour visits the Ellis Island Hospital facilities, including the contagious disease wards and autopsy rooms. The tour also includes the art exhibit "Unframed – Ellis Island" by JR, featuring full-size photographs of immigrants. No children under 13 are allowed on this tour. Nearby Attractions Liberty Island and Ellis Island stand apart from New York City in its harbor. However, there are many attractions near both the New York and New Jersey ferry landings. For a couple ideas, check out our things to do in lower Manhattan post. Here are a few others we suggest adding to your itinerary... See the famous Charging Bull statue and walk over to Wall Street, where you'll find Federal Hall, a National Memorial marking the spot where George Washington became president. Honor more of our nation’s important history with a visit to the poignant 9/11 Tribute Center & Memorial Museum. If you’d like to see the statue but don’t feel like waiting in lines at the actual island, try these fun options out on the water... Landmark Cruise by Circle Line Sightseeing Clipper City Tall Shop Sail Shearwater Classic Schooner Sail The Museum of Jewish Heritage is also right on the waterfront. New York City Hall is an interesting place to snap photos. Pedal across the Brooklyn Bridge on a bike tour. If you're departing from the Jersey City location, take time to appreciate the views of New York City's West Side skyline. Liberty State Park's greenery provides a respite from the concrete city and its trails can even take you through a salt marsh. The Liberty Science Center helps visitors understand science and technology through hands-on exhibits. Where to eat near the Statue of Liberty? What restaurants are near the Statue of Liberty? You are allowed to bring your own food for lunch. However, it needs to be sealed prior to entering the screening facility. Coolers are not allowed. The boat ride to the islands is brief. But if you get hungry on the way, you can purchase food on board. Evelyn Hill Inc. is the food concessionaire located on Liberty Island and Ellis Island. It offers a variety of high quality food options. Back in Manhattan, you'll find hot dog vendors and the Battery Gardens restaurant tucked as far south on the island as you can get. Dine with a view of Lady Liberty at Battery Gardens. Gigino at Wagner Park also features great Statue views alongside Italian fare. Are you a Seinfeld fan? Then head to the Original Soup Man. Beaubourg offers high-end French cuisine and a delicious raw bar. In the mood for Japanese fare? Check out Shinjuku Sushi. History buffs will enjoy Trinity Place, located in a converted bank. Kids will love Peanut Butter & Co. Sandwich Shop. Families can find a wide variety of affordable chain options from Shake Shack to Subway. Save on Admission with a New York Explorer Pass Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Statue of Liberty ferry tickets, plus admission to your choice of dozens more top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon