The Pond

The Pond, the centerpiece of a serene landscape, is the first experience of Central Park for many visitors.

Surrounded by small lawns for sunbathing and picnicking, paths for strolling, and numerous benches, the Pond is a perfect place to relax. Rock outcrops and other spots along the shore offer views of the water and its resident waterfowl, which often includes egrets, black-crowned night herons, and several types of ducks. The u-shaped water body wraps around the Hallett Nature Sanctuary, a wooded, rocky hill traversed by rustic trails.

The Pond is just steps from the bustle of Fifth Avenue but set below the level of the street, so visitors literally descend into a landscape that provides an abrupt and immediate escape—the Park’s primary purpose. While visitors may feel transported out of the City, its skyline adds to the scenic drama of this section of the Park, with striking skyscrapers towering over the Park’s rocks, trees, and hills.

Stroll around the Pond

The landscape around this serene body of water offers scenic views and a chance to spot an array of wildlife at every turn.

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Things you can do here

  • Self-Guided Tours

    59th Street Tree Walk

    Rediscover one of the Park’s most popular areas through its beautiful tree population.

    Tags: Tree Walk / Plants and Trees

  • 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.

    Tags: History / Art & Architecture

  • Tours

    Woodlands and Pond Foliage Tour

    Discover one of Central Park’s best-kept secrets, home to many native plant species and wildlife, on this guided tour of the Hallett Nature Sanctuary and its surrounding landscapes.

    Tags: Wildlife / Plants and Trees

  • Guides

    Birding Guide

    Interested in birdwatching? Learn how to respectfully spot the more than 210 bird species that make an appearance in Central Park.

    Tags: Wildlife

  • 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.

    Tags: Art & Architecture / Plants and Trees

  • Guides

    A Guide to Summering Safely in Central Park

    Central Park provides New Yorkers a welcome escape from the intensity of NYC summers, but Park-goers should still take necessary precautions to stay cool, healthy, and hydrated during their visits.

    Tags: Kids and Families / Health & Fitness / Wildlife

    • Also in the area

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  • Wildlife

    Wintering in Central Park: How Urban Wildlife Survives Seasonal Change

    The mammals, birds, and reptiles that call Central Park home have adapted to survive the cold.

    Tags: Winter / Nature Lovers

  • Park Information

    10 New Year’s Resolutions for a Central Park-Lover

    Here are 10 ways to combine a desire for a new you in the new year with the joy of spending time in Central Park.

  • Things to See and Do

    Tips from Central Park's Volunteers

    With so much time spent in New York City’s backyard, volunteers quickly discover helpful tips and special spots.

    Tags: Tips for Visiting / First-Time Visitors

  • Restoration and Maintenance

    A Growing Challenge: Harmful Algal Blooms in Central Park

    Over the years, the Central Park Conservancy has been diligently monitoring the growth and location of harmful algal blooms in order to best inform the public and protect our visitors and wildlife.

    Tags: Summer / Conservancy Staff / Nature Lovers / Water Feature