easy
2.5 hours
Average physical fitness recommended; suitable for most visitors
Discover the rich history and hidden gems of Central Park on a captivating 2.5-hour walking tour led by a seasoned historian. Perfect for history buffs and outdoor lovers alike, this experience offers a fresh perspective on Manhattan’s iconic green space.
Starting at $33.95 l 2.5 Hours l All Ages
Embark on a captivating 2.5-hour walking tour of Central Park, guided by a seasoned historian. Discover hidden gems, breathtaking vistas, and the park's rich history, from its design by Olmsted and Vaux to the vibrant community that thrived before its creation. Experience the park like never before!
Adult (Ages 12+): $47.95 Child (Ages 11 & Under): 36.95
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Free cancellations made at least 48 hours before the tour's scheduled day and time.
Approximately 2.5 Hours
Experience the ultimate Central Park tour. Whether you are a first-time visitor or have visited the park numerous times, you’ll make discoveries and learn the intricacies of this urban artistic masterpiece.
Indulge in the spectacular scenery, hidden gems, history, and original motivations for creating the first large-scale public park in the United States. Experience the park with a New York City historian and Licensed New York City Tour Guide with over twenty years of experience in educating and entertaining.
This walking tour traverses Central Park from 59th Street through the Pool, Mall, Bethesda Terrace, Angel of the Waters statue, Lake, Bow Bridge, Ramble, Belvedere Castle, and Shakespeare Garden. You will overlook the majestic Great Lawn, the Delacorte Theater, and Turtle Pond. You’ll also discover the pre-park history, including an African American and immigrant community that thrived for thirty years before the park’s construction.
The tour is conducted by Bruce Racond, a historian and licensed New York City tour guide with over 20 years of experience. Please see the current TripAdvisor reviews.
You will be captivated as you . . .
Discover secrets of the park with a New York City historian and licensed tour guide with over twenty years of experience Encounter breathtaking vistas throughout the tour
- Learn about Central Park’s fascinating history, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux’s design and objectives, and the ambitious fifteen-year construction
- Walk through the exquisite Bethesda Terrace, Bethesda Arcade, and see the glorious Angel of the Waters statue and Jacob Wrey Mould’s delicate stonecutting designs
- See the Dairy, a wooden Victorian structure first built in the 1860s and the surrounding children’s “Kinderberg”
- Delight in the spacious fifteen-acre Sheep Meadow and learn about the Southdown sheep that once grazed there
- Traverse over the elegant cast iron Bow Bridge seen in numerous classic movies Depart the chaos of the city as you walk through the tranquil and mystical landscape of the Ramble
- Stand before the Gothic Revival Belvedere Castle and take in impressive views of the famous Great Lawn
- Stroll along the Mall surrounded by rows of magnificent American Elms and pay homage to “Women’s Rights Pioneers” in the recent monument
- Discover life before Central Park, including the remarkable African American and immigrant community named Seneca Village . . . and so much more! This tour is for first-time and experienced visitors and native New Yorkers alike. Rest assured, there’s much more to Central Park than meets the eye! Delights and surprises await you in the most famous and most visited urban park in the United States. Book Today!
NOTE: This tour does not visit Strawberry Fields, which is only nine blocks from where we finish.
Since the tour involves a lot of walking, make sure to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear.
Capture stunning views of the city skyline and historic features during stops.
Get a good spot at the start and enjoy the park’s early morning tranquility.
Bring water to stay refreshed throughout the walk.
Central Park was designed in 1858 by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, shaping the green heart of Manhattan as a refuge for all New Yorkers.
Ongoing efforts in maintenance and restoration ensure the park remains an accessible, sustainable haven amidst urban growth.
Necessary for extended walking over varied terrain.
Perfect for capturing scenic views and historic details.
Protect against sun during outdoor parts of the tour.
summer specific
Stay hydrated during the walk.