Bandshell by Wired New York
One of the reasons Central Park is one of the most visited landmarks in New York City is because this iconic attraction is featured in so many popular movie scenes. There's the lunch scene from "When Harry Met Sally" at the Central Park Boathouse restaurant, the ice-skating scene at Wollman Rink from the romantic film "Serendipity", and also the scene of precocious Kevin from "Home Alone 2" interacting with the homeless woman who feeds the birds.
Some Famous Movie Site Attractions in Central Park
Even if it's not likely that you’ll be found gallivanting through the autumn landscape like one of Twyla Tharp's dancers from the 1980s movie "Hair", there are countless other movie site attractions to experience during your time in Central Park. Here are just a few that played a part in popular movies filmed in New York City:
Bethesda Fountain
Overlooking the Lake in Central Park, the fountain is featured on the lower level of Bethesda Terrace. It was first unveiled in 1873 and was designed by Emma Stebbins, the first woman with the honor of receiving a public commission for a New York City major work of art. The angel atop the fountain is accompanied by a quartet of cherubs that represent Temperance, Purity, Peace, and Health and has been seen in movies like Stuart Little 2, Godspell, and Ransom; on television shows like Gossip Girl and Law & Order; and also in the video game Grand Theft Auto IV.
The Bandshell
Its official name is the Naumburg Bandshell, and it's been featured in movies such as Breakfast at Tiffany's and Hair. However, the Bandshell is actually used for concerts and other stage events featuring groups like the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, and the Washington Square Music Festival. Good Morning America and the Today Show have both used the Bandshell to feature popular music artists as a way to boost their television ratings. Most of the events that take place at the Bandshell are free, and appeal to people of all ages.
The Conservatory Garden
Of all the places in the 843 acres that make up Central Park, the Conservatory Garden is possibly the most earth-friendly. This attraction is actually made up of three smaller gardens, one each in the style of English, French, and Italian landscaping. The city has designated the Conservatory Garden as an official Quiet Zone. It is common to see couples having their wedding here, or children visiting the fountain that pays tribute to Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic tale, The Secret Garden.
Wollman Rink
While many film buffs know that iconic couples from the romantic movies Love Story and Serendipity both skated here, they'd be surprised to learn that in the summer the landmark actually transforms into the Victorian Gardens Amusement Park. The Trump organization currently operates the rink in conjunction with a company from Virginia. It is an entertaining place to visit during any season, and it also offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding New York City skyline both day and night.
Tavern on the Green
Most film buffs will associate this iconic Central Park landmark with movies like Ghostbusters, Edward Scissorhands, Beaches, Stella, and The Flintstones. Tavern on the Green has also been frequented by famous artists and celebrities such as Grace Kelly and Fay Wray. John Lennon celebrated several of his birthdays at Tavern on the Green in the late 70's, and it was the restaurant of choice for many opening night Broadway show festivities. In 2009 the restaurant closed down after filing for bankruptcy, reopening again in 2010 as an information center and gift shop. However, in 2012 it was closed once again, this time for renovations. After a long-anticipated wait, Tavern on the Green re-opened in April of 2014 as a restaurant. However, it closed again in 2020 during the Covid-19 Pandemic, but it is currently once again fully operational and accepting reservations.