Charles A. Dana Discovery Center

Located on the north shore of the Harlem Meer is the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, a visitor center run by the Central Park Conservancy.

The Conservancy offers free educational and community programs, exhibits, tours, and holiday celebrations at the Dana Discovery Center. While the building looks historic, the Dana Center is Central Park’s newest building. It was constructed in 1993 as part of a major restoration of the Harlem Meer.

Things you can do here

  • Kids & Families

    Landforms: A History of Central Park's Fort Landscape

    At the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, learn how natural features in Central Park's north end played an important role in shaping the history of our City—and our nation.

    Tags: Exhibit

  • Kids & Families

    Discovery Kits

    Borrow a Discovery Kit filled with kid-friendly materials for a Park adventure.

  • Daily Activities

    Picnic Guide

    Central Park is home to lawns, benches, and picnic tables across its 843 acres, providing countless great picnic spots.

    Tags: Families / Tips for Visiting / All Ages / Nature Lovers

  • Daily Activities

    Lawn Games

    Borrow a variety of lawn games like bocce ball, horseshoes, kubb, cornhole and ring toss, for outdoor play in fair weather!

    Tags: Fitness

  • Daily Activities

    Catch-and-Release Fishing

    Borrow fishing poles for catch-and-release fishing in the Harlem Meer.

    • Read more

  • Programs and Events

    The Hair-Raising History of the Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla

    The Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla returns to the Harlem Meer in late October with crafts, storytelling, a costume parade, and more.

    Tags: Fall / Best for Kids

  • Park History

    Harlem Meer Performance Festival Nears 30 Years of Music and Dance

    Since 1993, the Harlem Meer Performance Festival has been a cultural cornerstone of the community surrounding the north end of Central Park.

    Tags: Summer