Join Tours by Foot on a walking tour through the lower section of Central Park as we explore winding paths, beautiful landscapes, iconic landmarks, and the fascinating stories that have made this urban oasis such an important part of New York City.
Explore the Lower Section of Central Park
With 843 acres to explore, Central Park can feel like a city within the city. On this 2-hour walking tour, we'll explore the lower section of the park, taking in its landscapes, architecture, history, and the stories that have made it one of New York City's most beloved places.
Starting at Grand Army Plaza, we'll leave the busy streets of Manhattan behind and enter the park, where winding paths quickly give way to peaceful scenery and unexpected views of the city.
Our walk takes us past the Pond and across Gapstow Bridge, one of Central Park's most picturesque spots, with the Manhattan skyline rising behind the trees. We'll meet Balto, the famous sled dog memorialized with a statue in the park, before continuing past the Central Park Zoo and Wollman Rink.
From there, we'll discover some of the places that have made Central Park a favorite destination for generations of New Yorkers. We'll pass the Carousel and Chess & Checkers House before reaching the Mall, a grand tree-lined promenade that leads toward some of the park's most spectacular architecture.
We'll continue through Sheep Meadow and make our way to Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, one of the great gathering places in Central Park. Here, we'll explore the beautiful architecture and discover the stories behind one of the park's most recognizable landmarks before continuing along the Lake.
As we walk toward the Upper West Side, we'll visit Strawberry Fields, the memorial to John Lennon, and finish our tour near the Dakota Apartments.
Central Park Lower Section Tour: What You'll See
Grand Army Plaza
Start your walk at one of Manhattan's grand entrances to Central Park, where the park opens up from Fifth Avenue. We'll begin by looking at the history and design of the park before heading onto its winding paths.
The Pond & Gapstow Bridge
One of the most picturesque corners of Central Park, the Pond offers beautiful views of the skyline and surrounding landscape. Gapstow Bridge is one of the park's most recognizable bridges and a favorite spot for photographs.
Balto Statue
Meet one of Central Park's most unexpected residents: Balto, the famous sled dog who became a hero after helping deliver medicine to Nome, Alaska. His statue has been a favorite stop for generations of visitors.
Central Park Zoo
The Central Park Zoo occupies a small but fascinating corner of the park. We'll talk about its place in Central Park's history and how this part of the park has changed over time.
Wollman Rink
Wollman Rink is one of Central Park's best-known recreational spaces, with spectacular views of the park and surrounding city. Depending on the season, it can look dramatically different — from an ice-skating rink in winter to an open recreation area in warmer months.
The Dairy
The Dairy is one of Central Park's charming surprises, a Victorian Gothic Revival building designed by Calvert Vaux. When it opened in 1870, it was intended to provide children with fresh milk and a cool place to enjoy the park. Today, the beautifully restored building serves as the Dairy Visitor Center & Gift Shop.
The Carousel
Central Park's Carousel has delighted generations of visitors and is one of the park's most charming attractions. We'll discover how this beloved attraction became part of the Central Park experience.
Chess & Checkers House
Tucked beside the Mall, the Chess & Checkers House is one of Central Park's more unusual landmarks. It has long provided a place for New Yorkers to gather, play games, and enjoy the park.
The Mall & Literary Walk
Walk beneath the towering American elm trees along the Mall, one of Central Park's most iconic promenades. Along the way, we'll see statues honoring famous writers and explore the history of this beautiful gathering place.
Sheep Meadow
Once home to a flock of sheep, this expansive meadow is now one of Central Park's favorite places to relax, gather, and take in views of the surrounding skyline. We'll learn how Sheep Meadow became part of Central Park's original design and how it has been used by New Yorkers over the years.
Bethesda Terrace & Fountain
One of Central Park's most spectacular landmarks, Bethesda Terrace was designed as a grand gathering place overlooking the Lake. We'll explore the terrace, its beautiful carvings, and the famous Angel of the Waters fountain while hearing the stories behind this remarkable part of the park.
The Lake
From Bethesda Terrace, we'll continue toward the Lake, where the scenery changes again. The water, bridges, trees, and surrounding landscapes create some of Central Park's most peaceful views.
Strawberry Fields
Our walk takes us to Strawberry Fields, the living memorial to John Lennon. We'll learn about the memorial, its connection to Lennon, and why this quiet corner of Central Park has become a destination for visitors from around the world.
The Dakota Apartments
We'll finish near the Dakota, the historic Upper West Side apartment building that has been home to numerous notable residents. Its connection to John Lennon makes it a particularly fitting final stop after visiting Strawberry Fields.
Tour Highlights
- Walk through the lower section of Central Park with a knowledgeable local guide
- Take in the skyline views from the Pond and Gapstow Bridge
- Discover the stories behind Central Park landmarks like Balto, the Carousel, and Chess & Checkers House
- Stroll beneath the elm trees along the MallExplore the magnificent Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
- Enjoy the landscapes and views around the Lake and Sheep Meadow
- Visit Strawberry Fields and learn about its connection to John Lennon
- Finish near the historic Dakota Apartments
- Experience Central Park's history, architecture, scenery, and unexpected stories in one 2-hour walking tour
Tour Information
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Meeting Point: Grand Army Plaza, by the gold statue of General William Tecumseh Sherman at 59th Street and Fifth Avenue (map)
End Point: Across the street from The Dakota Apartments, at Central Park West and 72nd Street.
Accessibility: This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for guests who cannot navigate stairs or walk for the duration of the tour. There are stairs along the route at some of Central Park's landmarks.
Walking: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Weather: Tours go out rain or shine. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
We also offer 2 audio tour options, which you can book in the above booking widget.
Here's a sample.