2013 NYC by Train 10 - A Stroll in CP

As we came out of the Guggenheim, we could see Central Park (CP) right across the street. With no entrance in sight, we headed south along the high stone wall. If I didn't know better, it felt like we were strolling along the streets of Paris --classic old apartment buildings to the left, trees forming a green tunnel overhead, cobblestone walkway, people resting / eating / reading on benches to the side. So relaxing.

We entered the park at about 85th St. The first informational sign we spied was for a CP app. As the NY subway app had been so helpful, we downloaded this one, too, and were glad we did. Then we slowly meandered south, mostly on the east side of the park. It is lovely with numerous lakes, statuary, and amusements. Many of the plants, trees, and landmarks were labeled, so an educational experience as well. Something for everyone.

One thing so interesting about CP is the terrain. Many highs and lows in the middle of this seemingly flat and concrete city. Apparently at one time the entire island of Manhattan was very hilly, but the dreamer and schemer architects of the original town moved dirt from the tops of hills into the gullies of the terrain to pretty much flatten the living, working, and shopping areas. But they were wise enough to leave the park in its natural form to keep the landscape interesting and unique against the surrounding city environment. Lots of winding trails, hills and dales, and boulders big enough to rest or picnic on, landscape surprises in every direction.

It wasn't too long before we came across the back of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is quite modern looking. We detoured back onto Museum Mile to see its historical front. It was under renovation and quite packed. We decided to stick with our plan to get the "lay of the land" on this trip and visit here another time.

Continuing down The Mile to the next park entrance, we admired the lovely apartments on the east side of the street. Our mouth's literally watered with envy, as we oohed and aahed at each one, more spectacular than the last. We tried to decide which we might live in if we had followed our retirement plan and won the Mega Millions or Power Ball lottery!! OK, back to reality. We re-entered CP at 79th. 

This park is a huge (6.5 acres) and lush oasis in a land of skyscrapers. There are plenty of places to just relax or enjoy the lakes of varying sizes. You can rent bikes or row boats or paddle boats; ride a carousel; fish; dabble in chess or checkers; play various sports including croquet, tennis, bocce ball; and more and more.

There is no end to the points of interest, monuments, theme gardens (Shakespeare or "secret" butterfly gardens, for example), fountains, and sculpture. So many things for folks to admire or study, or for kids to play on.

There are many special areas kids (big and small) would enjoy. Although we did not visit today, there is a zoo (and children's zoo) which contains polar circle, rain forest, and temperate zone habitats. We saw the harbor seal (familiar to us from our California days) pool from the outside edge of the zoo. And there are fenced off play areas dedicated to kids, as well, with signs that say "No adults without kids." I loved it!

While in CP, we did not have to cross any streets. Bridges or those iconic arched tunnels help you avoid auto traffic for block after block. We saw only one street traversing north and south through the park, but vehicles journeyed at a slow pace and so there were many opportunities for pedestrians to cross safely. Numerous bicyclers and joggers enjoyed the space with us on this lovely day as well.

 We came across a jazz trio just having a good time. Their guitar case was open for donations, but I don't think they cared about how much they earned. They were just making music, enjoying the day and the greenery around them. Tips were a bonus.

Then we saw Conservatory Lake where one can rent model sailboats  and maneuver them by radio-controlled power from the water's edge. You can also buy a sailor or captain hat to enhance the experience. Very cute.

Next we saw a puppeteer entertaining a group of small kids. They were enthralled and couldn't wait for the show to begin.

Near the south end of the park was a bevy of street food vendors. Lots of ethnic options, but we were saving ourselves for another visit to Beer Culture for the hot caprese sandwich (which I had been thinking about all day).

At the southmost entrance gate were two huge and grotesque Samurai-like art pieces. They solemnly guarded the entrance to the park. Almost everyone walking about took a photo of their friends in front of these protectors of the park (including us).

As we exited onto 59th street, there was a line of pedicab vendors (only $3 per minute) and horse-and-carriage rides (starting at $165 for 45 minutes or $265 during holidays). Horses were dressed with silk flowers on their ears and tack gear. Carriage drivers were in top hats and tails. Pretty romantic if you were willing to chance the busy car traffic surrounding them, but maybe another time.

At every corner and turn in CP had been something new and surprising. You felt safe and glad to be there. It was a well-used and well-kept refuge of green and gorgeous nature. We had not seen near all the grandeur of this natural haven. It was a happy, happy place!

And in the words or Arnold Schwarzenegger, "We'll be back!"

For more info, go to:  www.centralparknyc.org