Winter Guide
Evergreen trees are showing off their colors, turtles are brumating at the Lake, and the grounds are quiet and calm. It’s winter in Central Park, and we’re celebrating the season with an OFFICIAL Central Park Conservancy Winter Guide.
To many, winter in New York City is a season to be endured on the path to spring, summer, and fall. But in Central Park, it’s a season to be enjoyed. Winter’s bare branches, dormant wildlife, and resting lawns make room for more of the Park’s details to be noticed and treasured.
Looking for spots to exercise or meditate? Want to learn about the Park wildlife that brave winter’s cold? Need to get out of the house for an impromptu date night or sledding adventure with the kids? We’ve got you—and your New Year’s resolutions—covered.
Before we begin, don’t forget to bookmark our Alerts page for all the info you’ll need on scheduled or weather-related Park closures. Another great spot for Central Park updates? Our Twitter feed. Give us a follow, tag us from the Park, and keep up to date on all the goings-on in these 843 acres.
Reading in a Winter Wonderland
We could go on and on about why we love caring for Central Park—and we have! Check out our robust online magazine to learn about the Conservancy’s work, how we care for this space, and the history behind the creation of the Park.
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Plants and Trees
Thy Leaves Are So Unchanging
The ancient Druids revered the holly tree as a symbol of protection and beauty during the grueling winter months. Hebrew, Egyptian, Pagan, and Chinese cultures found symbolism in evergreens as well. These trees were especially important in celebrations of the winter solstice—the shortest day of the year—and are found throughout Central Park.Tags: Conservancy Staff / Winter / About the Conservancy / Trees / Nature Lovers
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Wildlife
Where Do Central Park’s Ducks Go in the Winter?
Holden Caufield wasn’t the only one wondering! When wildlife face freezing temperatures and icy conditions, there’s no need to worry—the mammals, birds, and reptiles that call Central Park home (either seasonally or year-round) are well-adapted to this environment.Tags: Winter / Nature Lovers
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Things to See and Do
Finding Beauty in the Fiercest Season
As a kid growing up on New York City’s Upper West Side, author Florence Williams rejoiced at the earliest sign of snow. Not just for the possibility of a school day off—remember those?—but because a snowy day was a day filled with laughter, delight, friends, snow-in-the-boots, and hot chocolate in Central Park.Tags: Winter / Nature Lovers
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Things to See and Do
Mindfulness Through Mindlessness
Hiking the Ramble’s twisting paths presents a different experience than walking in an undulating meadow or strolling along the Mall, the only deliberate straight line in the Park. These carefully designed landscapes offer our brains a holistic multisensory experience and predictable change—which is exactly what our nervous systems crave.Tags: Tips for Visiting / Nature Lovers
Add Some Whimsy to Your Winter
Pique Your Interest in the Park’s Plants
In the field of horticulture, many plants are lauded for their “winter interest”—the bright colors, textures, and even scents that stand in stark contrast to otherwise bare, wintry landscapes. Try your hand at tree and shrub identification this season with our comprehensive guide!
Get to Know the Park with a Conservancy Guide
Conservancy tours are back and better than ever! In celebration of Black History Month in February, join our expert guides to learn about Seneca Village—the largest community of free African-American property owners in pre–Civil War New York—and explore its current landscape.
Enjoy the Great Indoors This Season
While there’s nothing like experiencing Central Park in person, our Conservancy guides have curated the next best option. If you’re unable to join us this winter, check out our extensive catalog of virtual content to help you explore the Park from home. Register for a virtual tour or a Weekly Walk with our guides and be sure to follow us on social for new content!
The Park Needs Us—All of Us
As much as we each depend on the Park—for solace, community, and inspiration—the Park depends on us, too. Support our work to care for these 843 acres and share your Park story with our Conservancy staff. We’d love to learn how the Park has loved you back when you most needed it. #TheParkNeedUs