Secret Places of Central Park Walking Tour
Uncover the Best Central Park Walking Tour. Discover hidden gems, secret spots, and fascinating history only a New York City historian can show you!
Step away from the crowds and dive into the secret places of Central Park in the best Central Park walking tour. Discover the park’s most scenic and least-visited spots, steeped in history and natural beauty. It is led by a licensed guide and historian with over twenty-five years of experience who knows the secrets of this iconic space.
As Calvert Vaux, the co-creator of Central Park, stated, the goal of the park was to “translate democratic ideas into trees and dirt.” Today, with over 42 million visitors a year, this 843-acre man-made marvel still delivers on that vision—a park made for everyone. But while you may have strolled past famous landmarks like the Bethesda Fountain or rowed across the Lake, this Secret Places of Central Park tour will whisk you away to unique locations that few of those millions of visitors ever see. You’ll discover landscapes of the park that will transport you “out of the city.”
On this journey, you’ll . . .
- Wander through a breathtaking 40-acre forest filled with towering oak, hickory, maple, and ash trees.
- Venture off the beaten path as you “hike” through a stunning woodland, a hidden slice of the Adirondacks, right in the middle of New York City.
- Visit the Secret Garden of the Conservatory Garden, a serene oasis tucked away from the bustle of the city.
- Admire an intricate French iron gate that once stood at Cornelius Vanderbilt II’s grand mansion.
- Relive history on high ground, once used to watch for invaders during both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.
- Discover Central Park’s oldest original structure, standing strong for over 200 years.
- Take in a stunning view of the Harlem Meer from an elevated vantage point.
- Walk the path of General George Washington on his way to reclaiming New York City at the end of the Revolutionary War.
- Marvel at an engineering marvel: a rugged 1866 arch built from uncut Manhattan schist and without mortar.
- Find serenity walking beside the waters of the Loch and a picturesque waterfall.
You’ll learn the fascinating history of the park and gain an even greater appreciation for what the creators Frederick Law Olmstead, Calvert Vaux, and Board Commissioner Andrew Haswell Green accomplished more than 160 years ago. You’ll also learn about who and what was on the landscape before the park—including the African American and immigrant community known as Seneca Village. This tour is a must for lovers of New York City and Central Park. Sign up today!
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The tour is conducted in the rain, snow, or shine. Some locations may not be open or accessible depending on weather conditions and/or park closings.
The tour is approximately 3.5 miles and takes about 2.5 hours. You should be in good physical shape: there is uneven terrain, unpaved trails, rocks, some steep (but short) hills on dirt and mulch, uneven stairs, and potentially slippery areas. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear suitable shoes.
The tour meets around 100th Street & Central Park West. Tour details will be sent after you register.
