Winter Guide

It might be cold outside, but don’t let that stop you—winter is one of the most enchanting seasons to spend in Central Park!
Whether you’re visiting the Park in person (socially distanced, of course) or enjoying it from afar, our OFFICIAL Central Park Conservancy Winter Guide will help you make the most of this new season in the Park. Please remember to wear a face covering and keep at least six feet from others while enjoying your time in the Park.
There’s an array of outdoor activities to enjoy, from listening to the cheerful sounds of the Delacorte Clock to enjoying snowy-weather fun like sledding. Browse our Winter Guide then resist the urge to hibernate and come explore everything the Park has to offer.
Before you go, bookmark these handy resources: Our alerts page contains updates on major disruptions and scheduled closures in Central Park. You can also follow us on Twitter for the latest on Park news and happenings.
What to Know About the Park in Winter
Discover more about Central Park’s quietest, calmest season—or plan for your next cold-weather visit—by diving into these fun reads.
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Park Information
From the Mailbag: Visiting Central Park in the Winter
From the best ways to get around the Park to how we clear the Park of snow, we answer some of your most-asked questions about the Park in the winter.Tags: Playgrounds / Winter
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Park Information
Central Park’s Most Instagrammable Wintertime Spots
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an amateur wielding a phone, here are some of our favorite shutter-worthy spots in the winter.
Tags: Winter
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Wildlife
Winter Stories from Central Park's Wildlife
Learn how the animals that call Central Park home (either temporarily or year-round) have adapted to survive the cold.Tags: Winter
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Things to See and Do
20 Ways to Enjoy Winter in Central Park
Stumped about how to spend a winter day in the Park? We’ve got you covered.Tags: Tips for Visiting / Winter
Explore the Park Virtually
Get an insider’s look at the world’s greatest urban park from the people who know it best. These programs allow you to explore the Park from the comfort of your couch.
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Weekly Walks
We’re bringing the Park’s stunning vistas, sublime natural wonders, and thriving wildlife to you. Register just once for our Weekly Walks series and you’ll receive an update for each upcoming virtual stroll. -
Behind the Park: Conversations with the Conservancy
Hear from Conservancy experts for a peek behind the Park. Each Behind the Park conversation features a Q&A with a different member of the Conservancy staff and will provide insight into the countless ways the Conservancy restores, maintains, and enhances Central Park. -
Virtual Tours
From corner to corner, Central Park is filled with fascinating destinations and secrets. Get a behind-the-scenes perspective on the history, design, and ecology of the Park with our expert staff.
SAFETY TIPS
Enjoy Central Park safely this winter with these important tips and reminders.
- Before coming to Central Park during a snowstorm or blizzard, check our Twitter or alerts page for updates on the Park’s status.
- Never go out onto the ice of any Central Park water body—and don’t let your dog go out either! Falling into frigid water can cause life-threatening hypothermia within minutes. If you see someone in danger on, in, or near a Central Park water body, call 911.
- Most Park drinking fountains are turned off during the winter season—download our official running map or official biking map to learn which ones.
Explore Our Winter Recreation Guide
If you’re the outdoorsy type who loves to explore Central Park in all weather, discover the many ways to get active and enjoy the Park on a cold, snowy day.
Tell Your Story
How has the Park made a difference in your life during these unprecedented times? Join the conversation with #myCentralPark—share on social media or submit your story online.