Discover these hidden gems in Central Park.
Central Park welcomes over 42 million visitors each year, and sometimes its popular spots can become crowded. For those seeking serenity or wanting to explore beyond the iconic landmarks, we've curated a list of 10 lesser-known gems to discover in Central Park.
1. Cop Cot - A grand rustic shelter with panoramic views.
Located at Central Park South and 6th Avenue, Cop Cot is the largest rustic structure in the park. Its name means "little house on the crest of the hill" in Scottish. This reproduction of 19th-century wooden shelters offers a shady, semi-private spot for viewing the park.
Best time to visit: Early morning for solitude.
Accessibility: Easy access from the entrance.
Nearest Restrooms: Bethesda Terrace (mid-park at 72nd Street) or Tavern on the Green (west side between 66th and 67th Streets).
2. Wagner Cove - A secluded lakeside retreat.
This hidden gem on The Lake's edge features a rustic shelter with wooden benches. Ideal for dates, quiet lunches, or contemplation, it's located west of Cherry Hill and east of the 72nd Street entrance.
Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons for tranquility.
Accessibility: Limited. The cove is reached via park pathways, which may include slopes and uneven terrain.
Nearest Restrooms: Bethesda Terrace (mid-park at 72nd Street)
3. The Charles B. Stover Bench - A unique bench in a literary setting.
Located in Shakespeare Garden (west side, 79th-80th Street), this 20-foot curved granite bench is known as the "Whisper Bench" because a whisper spoken into one end can be heard clearly at the other, similar to the Whisper Wall in Grand Central Terminal. It was dedicated in 1936 as a memorial for Charles Stover, former New York City Parks Commissioner. The bench is situated amidst the garden's floral beauty, making it a charming spot for reflection and quiet conversation.
Best time to visit: Spring, when the garden is in full bloom.
Accessibility: Paved paths suitable for wheelchairs.
Nearest Restrooms: The Ramble Shed (mid-park south of 79th Street Transverse) or the Central Park Boathouse (east side between 74th and 75th Streets)
4. Arthur Ross Pinetum - A pine tree haven with recreational areas.
Near 85th street on the west side, just south of the Reservoir, this small arboretum boasts the park's largest pine tree collection. It includes a playground and a workout area, plus tables and open lawns that are great for picnics.
Best time to visit: Year-round, especially nice in winter.
Amenities: Water fountains available.
Accessibility: Generally accessible with paved paths. The playground has some accessible features. Nearest accessible entrance is at Central Park West and 85th Street.
Nearest Restrooms: Ancient Playground (85th Street & Fifth Avenue) or North Meadow Recreation Center (mid-park at 97th Street).
5. Albert Bertel Thorvaldsen Sculpture - A serene spot for art appreciation.
Located near 97th Street and Fifth Avenue, this statue is surrounded by benches, offering a quick escape from city bustle.
Best time to visit: Midday for optimal lighting.
Map reference: Look for "Thorvaldsen Statue" on official park maps.
Accessibility: The area around the statue is accessible via paved paths. Nearest accessible entrance is at Fifth Avenue and 97th Street.
Nearest Restrooms: North Meadow Recreation Center (mid-park at 97th Street) or Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (inside the park at 110th Street between Fifth Avenue and Lenox Avenue).
6. Bank Rock Bay - A restored shoreline perfect for birdwatching.
Located west of the Ramble between 77th and 78th Streets, this popular bird-watching area features a rustic bridge and paths. It was recently restored as a part of a larger effort to secure the Lake's eroding shoreline.
Best time to visit: Early morning for birdwatching. Spring migration brings diverse species.
Accessibility: Limited. Some paths may be narrow or uneven. The rustic bridge may present challenges for wheelchair users.
Nearest Restrooms: Bethesda Terrace (mid-park at 72nd Street) or Loeb Boathouse (east side between 74th and 75th Streets).
7. The Pool - A picturesque pond teeming with wildlife.
The Pool
Located off Central Park West and 100th Street, this man-made lake is home to ducks, turtles, and weeping willows. There are also a number of man-made waterfalls in the area.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon for golden hour reflections.
Accessibility: The main path around The Pool is paved and generally accessible. Some viewing areas may have uneven terrain.
Nearest Restrooms: North Meadow Recreation Center (mid-park at 97th Street) or Robert Bendheim Playground (100th Street and Fifth Avenue).
8. Summit Rock - The park's highest natural point.
Between 82nd and 84th Street on the west side, Summit Rock (141.8 feet high) offers a rustic stone "amphitheater" with benches overlooking wooded slopes. It was also the former site of historic Seneca Village.
Best time to visit: Sunset for spectacular views.
Accessibility: Limited. The summit involves climbing stairs and uneven terrain, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Nearest Restrooms: Ancient Playground (85th Street and Fifth Avenue) or North Meadow Recreation Center (mid-park at 97th Street).
9. The Loch - A peaceful stream in the North Woods.
The Loch winds through Central Park's North Woods, creating a serene and immersive woodland experience. Framed by the historic Glen Span and Huddlestone Arches, this enchanting stream features cascading waterfalls and lush vegetation. Its calm environment is shielded from city noise and attracts nature lovers and birdwatchers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Best time to visit: Fall for colorful foliage.
Accessibility: Some uneven terrain, sturdy footwear recommended. Limited accessibility for wheelchair users.
Nearest Restrooms: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (inside the park at 110th Street between Fifth Avenue and Lenox Avenue) or Great Hill (west side from 103rd to 107th Streets).
10. Fort Clinton - A historic site with panoramic views.
Located on the east side between 106th and 107th Street, on a hill overlooking the Harlem Meer, this former fortification now offers scenic overlooks, benches, and historical artifacts like a flagpole and two cannons that were reinstalled after being in storage for 40 years.
Best time to visit: Clear days for best views of Harlem Meer.
Accessibility: Partially accessible. The main area can be reached via paved paths, but some viewpoints may involve steps or uneven terrain.
Nearest Restrooms: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (inside the park at 110th Street between Fifth Avenue and Lenox Avenue) or Great Hill (west side from 103rd to 107th Streets).