Central Park in Summer — Your Ultimate Guide to NYC’s Greatest Outdoor Destination
Summer is when Central Park truly comes alive. Long, warm days, green lawns, free outdoor concerts and cool lakeside breezes make it the perfect escape from the city heat. Here are ten of the best things to do in Central Park in summer — and the easiest way to fit several into one relaxed day.
Top 10 Central Park Summer Activities You Can’t Miss
1. Take a pedicab tour through the park
Beat the heat and save your energy: a pedicab tour covers all the highlights in the shade of the trees, with a breeze as you ride and a local guide sharing the stories.
2. Picnic on Sheep Meadow
Spread a blanket on Sheep Meadow, the park’s great open lawn, and enjoy a lazy summer afternoon with the skyline as your backdrop.
3. Row a boat on the Lake
Rent a rowboat and glide across the Lake under Bow Bridge — one of summer’s most refreshing, romantic activities.
4. Visit the Central Park Zoo
Cool off with the sea lions and penguins at the Central Park Zoo — a family favourite.
5. Catch a free concert or Shakespeare in the Park
Summer brings world-class free performances to the park, from open-air concerts on the Great Lawn to Shakespeare at the Delacorte Theater.
6. Explore the Conservatory Garden
Wander the blooming beds of the Conservatory Garden, the park’s only formal garden and a peaceful summer escape.
7. Cool off at Bethesda Fountain
Relax by the water at Bethesda Terrace, where the fountain and shady arcade make a perfect midday break.
8. Walk or ride through The Mall
Stroll the shaded elm tunnel of The Mall — cool, elegant and full of summer performers.
9. Take in the view from Belvedere Castle
Climb Belvedere Castle for panoramic summer views over the Great Lawn and Turtle Pond.
10. Ride the Carousel
End the day with a spin on the historic Central Park Carousel — a classic summer treat for all ages.
The Easiest Way to Enjoy Central Park in Summer
With the heat and the crowds, walking the whole park in summer can be exhausting. A pedicab lets you glide from one highlight to the next in the shade, cool and comfortable, seeing far more in far less time. Book a Central Park pedicab tour from $30 and make the most of your summer day in the park.