Out-of-town visitors are often astonished at the sight of horseback riders in Central Park. Horses, however, have been riding through the Park since it opened. (Most notably Jon Savage doing a series of tricks while trying to impress Beverly D’Angelo in the movie “Hair”.) Horseback riding is permitted year-round during regular park hours. The recently reconstructed Central Park bridle path is more than six miles long and encircles the Reservoir as well as the North Meadow. Riders can also make the round trip from the southwest corner of the reservoir to the Heckscher playground at the southern end of the park.

The Riverdale Equestrian Centre is now offering Riding Tours of Central Park - they are available through appointment only.  You can find out more information by clicking here.

Bridle Paths: Ride along Central Park's bridle paths and enjoy a unique vantage point from which to discover the Park's many treasures. There are three loops, each over a mile long.

It is possible to ride whenever the Park is open and as long as you remain on the bridle paths. Note that the Park is officially closed from 1:00 am – 7:00 am, and the Drives are open to traffic Monday through Friday, from 10:00 pm – 10:00 am, and from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm.

Permit Requirement: No permit required.