Dairy Visitor Center & Gift Shop

One of Central Park's five visitor centers, the Dairy Visitor Center & Gift Shop is a charming cottage near the Pond where wanderers can find their way.

Wanderers can find maps, guides, and gifts from the Central Park Conservancy all on offer at the Dairy.

The Dairy would look perfectly at home in the hills of the 19th century countryside. Calvert Vaux, Park co-designer, originally intended his Victorian cottage to be a rest area for children and their caregivers. When it opened in 1871, the cottage served children with milk and treats, as well as games they could borrow. Young Park-goers could escape the heat of the sun under the open-air porch, and feel a cool breeze coming from the Pond.

Today, the Dairy is a hub of information on the Conservancy’s varied programming and events, and provides visitors with maps and a wide array of gifts that support the Conservancy’s mission. Can't make it to the Dairy? Visit our online shop to browse our product selection and support the Park.

Things you can do here

  • Self-Guided Tours

    A Walk Through Vibrant Blooms and Secluded Trails

    Escape to the oasis within the City and enjoy newly restored landscapes full of blooming flowers.

  • Self-Guided Tours

    South End Tour

    Explore one of the most popular areas of Central Park — from the Children’s District to the smallest of the Park’s woodland landscapes.

  • Virtual Programs

    Southern Welcome

    Just steps from the bustling midtown streets are some of Central Park’s most serene and exquisite landmarks.

    Tags: Staff Picks

  • Kids & Families

    Discovery Kits

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

    • Read more

  • Park History

    The Children's District: Then and Now

    Not long after construction of Central Park began, the Park’s designers created the Children’s District in the lower end of the Park.

    Tags: Families / Best for Kids

  • Restoration and Maintenance

    Restoring the Dairy, Naumburg Bandshell, and Other Beloved Park Features

    Discover what Park features and destinations the Central Park Conservancy is improving this fall.

  • Things to See and Do

    Stories from Central Park

    We set out to capture some of their stories and create a picture of the Park on an average day, through our visitors' eyes.

    Tags: Families / Summer / Health and Fitness