What to Know Before You Go

Central Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 1:00 am.

While the Conservancy is not responsible for rule enforcement, we encourage you to follow some simple guidelines for everyone's safety and the wellbeing of the Park's wildlife and plant life. Head to our Help Center for a detailed breakdown of Park rules, resources, community partners, and regulations by subject, including guidelines for bikes, pets, events, grilling, wildlife, and more.

Central Park is located in the heart of Manhattan, from 59th Street to 110th Street and between Fifth Avenue on the east and Central Park West on the west. Explore our map for a comprehensive view.

Yes! Whether you’re looking for a sit-down dinner or an on-the-go soft pretzel, the Park offers a variety of dining options. You might even recognize historic eateries like the Central Park Boathouse or Tavern on the Green from your favorite films. Check out our dining map for a list of food vendors in the Park.

Don’t worry, we get this question a lot. And the answer is yes! There are public restrooms throughout the Park. Our handy restroom map features opening times, wheelchair accessibility, the availability of all-gender bathroom options, and other useful information.

From Grand Central Station
Central Park is a 19-minute walk from Grand Central Station. The M1, M2, and M3 buses travel up the length of the Park, a block away on Madison Avenue.

From Penn Station
Central Park is a 29-minute walk from Penn Station. The M34 and M2 buses are other good options.

Get Directions

Subways
B, C, 2, and 3 on the north side
1, 2, 3, B, and C trains along the west side
4, 5, 6 trains along the east side
A, B, C, D, 1, N, R, and Q trains on the south side

Buses
M1, M2, M3, M4 on the east side
M10, M72 on the west side

Official Central Park Tours offered by the Central Park Conservancy are the only organized tours that directly support the care of the flowers, trees, landscapes, water bodies, and historic structures that our visitors enjoy every day. Our tour guides wear official uniforms with a visible Central Park Conservancy logo, and you can browse our upcoming official tour offerings on our website. Click here to read our tour FAQs.

For a complete guide to the Park’s best picnic spots—complete with a detailed map—check out our Picnic Guide. You'll discover insider tips and the most ideal picnic tables, benches, and lawns for enjoying a bite with friends and family.

The Conservancy operates four gift shops, at the Dairy, Belvedere Castle, Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, and the Columbus Circle Information Kiosk. Stop by to browse our apparel, art from local New Yorkers, home goods, kid-friendly activities, and items for the perfect Park day, including picnic baskets, sunscreen, snacks, and more. All purchases directly support our care of Central Park.

Did you know the Park's charming lampposts were designed in 1907 with a secret way-finding tool? The base of every lamppost contains four numbers: The first two numbers indicate the nearest street. If the last two number are odd you're on the west side; if they're even, you're on the east. For example, 8005 would mean you're at 80th Street on the west side.

If maps are more your thing, you can find them digitally on our website or at one of our in-Park visitor centers.