Category Archives: Central Park

How to Stay Safe When Visiting Central Park

June 15, 2019 Peter Pen Adventures Leave a comment

In many respects, a visit to Central Park is like a vacation inside a vacation. You get away from the hustle and bustle on the sidewalks, the traffic in the streets, and all the asphalt and concrete which dominate so much of New York City’s landscape.

But you are still in the heart of the most populous city in the United States. That means that, unfortunately, you may not get away from crime.

There are also other safety considerations from visiting the park. While cycling, jogging, rollerblading, or taking part in other activities, injuries are possible.

Following are some tips which will help you to stay safe as you are enjoying all that Central Park has to offer.

1. Know the location of call boxes.

There are a few call boxes scattered throughout the park. Here are the locations of some of the most prominent ones:

Bernard Family Playground
Conservatory Garden
East 96^th Street Playground
Lasker Pool
Mariner’s Playground
Mineral Springs
East Drive at 102nd, 92nd, 90th, 84th, 79th, and 63rd Streets
West Drive at 110th, 102nd, 100th, 93rd, 90th, 83rd, 68th, and 60th Streets

Call box locations may change with time.

Using any of these call boxes, you can contact the Central Park Precinct or the Central Park Medical Unit.

2. Carry the resources you need.

One way that you can make it a lot less likely you’ll need to use a call box is to make sure that you bring the right supplies with you to enjoy a day at the park.

That means bringing plenty of water so that you can stay hydrated. If you have asthma, or another member of your family does, be sure to bring your inhaler.

You also might want to consider bringing a small first aid kit, especially if you will be in the park with young children.

3. Consider visiting during the daytime.

Central Park can be lovely to visit at any time of day, but if you want to reduce your risk of being the victim of a crime, one of the easiest ways to do so is simply to avoid being in the park after dark.

You especially should consider staying away from the more secluded areas of Central Park late at night. You are a lot less likely to be mugged if you are in a well-lighted area where many other people are present than if you are alone on a path in the woods.

4. Think about visiting with a friend.

Another recommendation for staying safe while you are visiting Central Park, particularly at night or in secluded areas, is to do so with a friend.

A mugger will be less inclined to attack two victims than one. And if you are injured, your friend can help you with first aid or get to a call box on your behalf

5. Take a Central Park pedicab tour.

Finally, one of the best safety tips in Central Park is to explore the park with a guide. You can do this by booking a Central Park pedicab tour.

Your guide knows which parts of the park are safest at which hours, and is familiar with the locations of all call boxes.

Ready to schedule a Central Park pedicab tour and experience all there is to see and do in the park while staying safe? Click above to book now.

Central Park

Restrooms in Central Park

April 10, 2019 Peter Pen Adventures 2 Comments

Central Park in New York City spans an area of 843 acres. You can set aside your entire day to explore it, and still not see all there is to see. During the hours you spend discovering all that the park has to offer, you’re probably going to need to use the restroom at least a few times, especially since it’s important to stay hydrated during your outing.

In this article, we’ll give you a guide to all the restrooms in Central Park. But first, let’s talk about a few things which are helpful to know about Central Park restrooms.

What You Should Know About Restrooms in Central Park

The vast majority of the restrooms in Central Park open at 7:00 am. The Delacorte Theater Restrooms are an exception. They open at 6:00 am.

Restrooms in Central Park close earlier in the fall and winter than they do in the spring and summer. In all cases, they close around dusk. That means they can close at any time between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm in the fall and winter, or 8:00 pm and 9:00 pm in the spring and summer.

Many of the bathrooms in Central Park are maintained directly by the Central Park Conservancy. But quite a few are maintained by private organizations. Each of these restrooms may open and close at different hours.

Many of the restrooms in Central Park have no accessibility features, but there are quite a few which are accessible by wheelchair.

Central Park restrooms are distributed fairly evenly throughout the park. Most of them are located close to attractions. So wherever you are in the park and whatever you are doing, chances are good that you are not far from a convenient restroom.

Now that you know what to expect regarding Central Park’s restrooms, let’s go over a list of all the restrooms throughout the park.

Seasonal Central Park Bathrooms

These restrooms are open beginning in late March. They remain open until early November.

Bethesda Terrace: Mid-Park at 72nd Street
Great Hill: West Side and 106th Street
Merchants’ Gate: West 61st Street by Columbus Circle
Robert Bendheim Playground: 100th Street and Fifth Ave

Year-Round Central Park Restrooms

Ancient Playground: 85th St. & 5th Ave
Charles A. Dana Discovery Center: 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues
Conservatory Garden: 5th Avenue, 103rd Street to 106th Street
Delacorte Theater Restrooms: Mid-Park at 80th Street
Heckscher Playground: West 62 Street and 7th Avenue
North Meadow Recreation: Mid-park at 97^th Street

Privately Run Bathrooms in Central Park

The Arsenal: 5^th Avenue & E. 64^th Street
Le Pain Quotidien: mid-park at 69th Street
Loeb Boathouse: East Side between 74th and 75th Streets
Model Boathouse (Kerbs) Cafe at Conservatory Water: East Side at 74^th Street
Tavern on the Green: West Side between 66th and 67th Streets
Tennis Center: 94th Street near the West Drive

Restrooms in Fee Areas in Central Park

You need to pay a fee to enter the following attractions. Without paying that fee, there is no restroom access.

Central Park Zoo: East Side and 63rd Street
Lasker Skating Rink: Mid-Park and 106th Street
Wollman Skating Rink: 6th Avenue and 63rd Street

Restrooms Which Are Wheelchair Accessible

The following restrooms are accessible by wheelchair:

Robert Bendheim Playground: 100th Street and Fifth Ave
Charles A. Dana Discovery Center: Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues
North Meadow Recreation: Mid-park at 97^th Street
Delacorte Theater Restrooms: Mid-Park at 80th Street
Heckscher Playground: West 62 Street and 7th Avenue
The Arsenal: 5^th Avenue & E. 64^th Street
Ancient Playground: 85th St. & 5th Ave

There Are Many Other Restrooms Near Central Park As Well

Can’t find a restroom in your location, or cannot use one because it is closed for maintenance? Do not forget that the restaurants and museums near Central Park have restrooms as well. There are plenty of options besides those listed above.

A Pedicab Tour is the Most Convenient and Comfortable Way to Explore Central Park.

A pedicab tour guide always knows the shortest and most direct route to any restroom in the park, and can get you there in a hurry when you need it during the tour.

That means you can spend less time hunting for a restroom, and more time enjoying the sights and activities of the Park. Book your Central Park pedicab tour now!

8 Best Secluded Places in Central Park

March 8, 2019 Peter Pen Adventures Leave a comment

Spanning 843 acres, Central Park might seem like it offers more than enough space for crowds to thin out and for you to find a quiet, secluded spot to yourself. But depending on the season, many of the most popular areas of the park can get to be quite packed.

Thankfully, with all that acreage, the park offers a lot of hidden nooks and corners to explore. If you are willing to seek them out, you can find some off-the-beaten-path spots which are perfect for a quiet picnic with your family or just to relax on your own and enjoy some fresh air and the boundless delights of nature.

Not sure where to start? Check out the list below to discover some of Central Park’s most secluded places.

1. Bank Rock Bay

You’ll discover Bank Rock Bay between 77^th Street and 78^th Street, west of The Ramble. The “bay” is actually a northern inlet of Central Park Lake. While it is a spectacular spot for bird-watching, surrounded by colorful foliage (it is particularly breathtaking during the fall), a lot of people miss out on it entirely.

2. Conservatory Garden

The Conservatory Garden is actually one of the best known destinations in Central Park. Because of that, it can get crowded during peak season. But it is worth a mention in this list for a couple of reasons. First of all, it is a designated quiet zone.

Secondly, the French, Italian and English-style gardens feature a number of small, quite paths to explore. You may very well be able to find some seclusion on a hidden bench among the trees and flowers.

3. East Green

If you are looking for more of a cultivated park atmosphere rather than the wild woodland ambiance of Bank Rock Bay and The Ramble, you can head to East Green. Located north of the Dene, this is another of Central Park’s designated quiet zones.

East Green tends to be less crowded than some of Central Park’s other lawns. The lush green grass offers many spots to read, picnic, exercise, or do any other quiet activity under the shade of magnolia, cherry, and crabapple trees.

4. Shakespeare Garden

If you enjoyed the Conservatory Garden, but you are still looking for something even more secluded, consider the Shakespeare Garden, which you’ll find near the Belvedere Castle and Swedish Cottage. With its narrow walkways and tall, dense bushes and trees, it is a wonderful setting for screening out both noise and crowds.

Tourists often miss the Shakespeare Garden altogether. They visit the more famous Conservatory Garden, and don’t even realize that there are other beautiful gardens in the park as well. That is something to take advantage of, whether you are a visitor or a local yourself.

5. Hallett Nature Sanctuary

You will discover this four-acre preserve at Central Park South and 5^th Avenue. It has been a haven for birds and small mammals in the park since 1934. They are able to find some solitude and tranquillity in the preserve, and so can you.

6. The Blockhouse

The oldest building in the park is known as the Blockhouse. It is located at 108^th Street and Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd. The history of the Blockhouse is interesting; it was a fortification constructed clear back in the early 19^th century. You cannot get inside, but you can enjoy a nice view of Harlem from the Blockhouse in relative solitude.

7. Turtle Pond

Between 79^th Street and 80^th Street, you will find Turtle Pond, another designated quiet zone in Central Park. Watch dragonflies buzzing by you and keep an eye on the water to spot fish, frogs and (of course) turtles. This is a great place for any nature-lover to visit, but should go over especially well with children.

8. The Ravine

One more Central Park destination to add to your list to escape the hustle and bustle of the city is The Ravine. Located near 103^rd Street in the North Woods, it is a manmade sanctuary which was constructed with care to resemble a wilderness environment. The trees grow densely here, hiding the skyscrapers from view, and the peaceful sound of the waterfall blocks out other noises from nearby.E

Because the spots we’ve shared above are so secluded, many of them tend to be a little bit out of the way. While this is the exact reason for their charm, it does mean that you may not have time to walk to each of them while you are visiting the park.

How can you visit more of these serene destinations? Consider taking a Central Park pedicab tour. A pedicab tour allows you to relax and get off your feet, touring more of the park within a shorter period of time. You’ll also have a friendly guide who can tell you more about each of these locations and share additional ideas for secluded spots to visit.

Central Park

10 Best Things For Couples To Do In Central Park

May 8, 2018 Peter Pen Adventures Leave a comment

Whether you’re visiting New York City with your beloved or you’re a local simply trying to plan the perfect date, Central Park is a romantic destination offering an abundance of activities which are perfect for couples. If you really want to sweep your loved one off their feet, here are 10 activities which are sure to get the sparks flying.

1. Row a Boat

Drop by the Loeb Boathouse and you can rent a small rowboat for an hour. Head on out on the water together with your date, and you can enjoy a romantic time together with one of the park’s most iconic buildings in the backdrop. Afterwards, stay for a meal at the boathouse restaurant.

2. Picnic in Central Park

While there are a lot of great restaurants around Central Park, sometimes the best meal is the one that you pack yourself. With spots like the Great Lawn, Sheep Meadow, Great Hill, Strawberry Fields, and Belvedere Castle to choose from, you’ll find plenty of lovely spots to enjoy the scenery while sharing a delicious meal with your loved one. Remember, you can also grab takeout nearby instead of packing lunch yourself.

3. Go Ice Skating

If it’s too cold for a picnic, it might be just the right weather for ice skating. Head with your special someone down to Wollman Rink, one of Central Park’s most recognizable landmarks. Featured in films like Serendipity and Love Story, it is one of the most romantic spots in all of NYC.

4. Visit the Central Park Zoo

Most people think of the Central Park Zoo as a family destination, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t also a perfect spot for a date with an animal lover! At the zoo, you can see cool animals like snow leopards, penguins, sea lions and red pandas—more than 130 species in all. With the skyscrapers of the city in the backdrop, it is also undeniably one of the most scenic zoos in the world.

5. Admire the Belvedere Castle

This folly is one of the first sites that a lot of people think of when they picture Central Park. The name Belvedere translates to “Beautiful View,” and it certainly is one. Additionally, it offers more than a few. Climb to either of its two balconies and you can look out across the landscape of the park.

Inside, there is more to do. The Belvedere Castle contains a museum with a selection of artifacts and also loans out field packs which you can take with you around the park. These contain binoculars, maps and other useful materials—great if the pair of you are birdwatchers or naturalists.

6. Walk the Bow Bridge

Arcing gracefully across the lake, this delicate bridge is an unabashedly romantic spot featured in movies like Autumn in New York, Keeping the Faith, and Manhattan. It dates all the way back to 1862, when its construction was completed. In all, it spans 87 feet and features a set of bas-relief panels topped with eight planters. The banisters are a set of circles interlinked—not unlike interlocking rings. This would be a great place to propose.

7. Explore the Conservatory Garden

One of the best reasons to visit Central Park on a date is to get away from the noise of the city. You can do this by heading to the Conservatory Garden, which is designated as an official quiet zone. Take a stroll through English, French and Italian-style gardens and enjoy a moment of quiet and serenity with your beloved. With the fragrance of flowers and the beautiful cultivated greenery all around, you will have the perfect backdrop for romance.

8. Hike in the Woods

If you really want to get a moment all to yourself with your beloved, you can go on a hike together through the park’s forested areas. There are a number of lovely shaded trails which take you out of sight of Central Park’s wide open lawns and get you away from the crowds. Visit the Ramble or the Hallett Nature Sanctuary or the North Woods to surround yourself with natural beauty. With its small waterfall, the North Woods is an especially romantic destination.

9. Attend a Performance of Shakespeare in the Park.

Shakespeare in the Park is a Public Theater service formerly known as the New York Shakespeare Festival. Taking place on an open-air stage, these performances are free. To get tickets, you need to wait at the Delacorte theatre on the same day as the performance. You can get up to two, so this is a perfect activity for a couple.

10. Check out Cleopatra’s Needle

Enjoy the mystique and romance of the past with someone special by paying a visit to the famous “Cleopatra’s Needle.” This Egyptian obelisk has been standing in its location before the Metropolitan Museum of Art since 1881. Archaeologists have estimated its year of construction to be around 1450 BC. After you’ve checked out the obelisk, head inside the museum to spend a day touring the exhibits.

Now you have 10 ideas for planning a romantic visit to Central Park. What’s the best way to get around? While you can walk or ride a bicycle, a Central Park pedicab tour is a much easier way to get around. Your pedicab guide can point out more great destinations for you and your loved one to explore as well. That way you don’t miss a single moment of romance in Central Park!

Central Park Food

Top 12 Places for Brunch Near Central Park

November 24, 2017 Peter Pen Adventures Leave a comment

There is so much to see in the 843 acres comprising Central Park. Chances are good that you will spend at least several hours here, if not a full day. While you are exploring the park’s natural splendour, be sure to also take a tour of some of its culinary delights. Here are 12 delicious restaurants which are perfect for brunch in and around Central Park.

12. Le Pain Quotidien

Address: Above Sheep Meadow, near 69th Street in the park; Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-8pm; Price: $7-20 per person

Not far from the famous Bethesda Fountain is Le Pain Quotidien, a bakery and coffee shop serving up delicious fresh-baked bread and desserts along with lighter fare such as smoked salmon and seasonal frittata and salad. Pop inside for a muffin or waffle and watch people walking through Sheep Meadow, or grab a latte to go and head out for a stroll yourself.

11. Marea

Address: 240 Central Park South, 59th Str b/t 5th & 6th Avenue; Hours: Mon-Sun 11:45am-11pm; Price: $60-110 per person

Right near the Columbus Circle, you will find Marea, a paradise for seafood lovers. At this restaurant, you can enjoy delicious Italian dishes like lobster with burrata and octopus fusilli. Not only is the food here a delight, but the entire dining experience is one which you will find unforgettable. Marea is renowned for its friendly, accommodating staff and its classy ambiance.

10. Brooklyn Diner

Address: 212 W 57th St, b/t 7th Ave & Broadway; Hours: Mon-Sun 7:30am-11pm; Price: $20-40 per person

Looking for a classic diner near Central Park? On W 57^th Street, you will find the famous Brooklyn Diner. This is the place to come for comfort food like chicken pot pie, macaroni and cheese, sandwiches and fries. The restaurant serves huge portions, so this is where you should eat if you are famished and looking for a big meal that will keep you satisfied through the rest of the day.

9. Petrossian Boutique & Cafe

Address: 911 7th Ave, b/t 57th St & 58th St; Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30am-8pm, Sat 8am-8pm, Sun 9am-6pm; Price: $20-35 per person

If you are near the Wollman Rink, consider dropping by the Petrossian Boutique & Café on 7^th Avenue for a quick bite to eat. Here you can enjoy Eggs Benedict, croissants, French toast, fruit tarts, caviar, cheese plates, and more. It’s also a coffee shop, so be sure to enjoy a cup of Café Au Lait. Save room for desserts—the cookies and the pastries are nothing short of divine.

8. Jams

Address: 1414 Ave Of The Americas, 6th Avenue b/t 57th St & 58th St, inside of 1 Hotel; Hours: brunch hours Sat-Sun 10am-2:45pm; Price: $25-40 per person

On Avenue of the Americas, you will find a lovely restaurant called Jams. Variety is the name of the game here. If you’re in the mood for a big, juicy burger, Jams has you covered. But you also can opt for tuna poke or pork ragu. With such a diverse menu, this makes Jams the perfect family choice. No matter what each of you are in the mood for, every member of your family will leave fully satisfied.

7. Norma’s

Address: 119 W 56th St, b/t 7th Ave & 6th Ave, inside Le Parker Meridien Hotel, Hours: Mon-Thu 6:30am-11am, Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm; Price: $45-70 per person.

“Elegance” is the word that springs to mind when you step inside Norma’s. The beautiful open design of this restaurant and the polished wood will etch a brunch here in your mind for years to come. Even the way the plates are presented is thoughtful and imaginative.

Norma’s isn’t cheap—you can expect to spend around $60 per person. But how many chances do you get to dine at a restaurant in this class? For many people, a trip to New York City happens only once in a lifetime. You should enjoy a once in a lifetime meal to go with it.

6. A.Cafe

Address: 42 W 58th St, b/t 5th Ave & 6th Ave; Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm; Price: $12-25 per person

If you like sleek modern design, cool mood lighting, and a vibrant contemporary vibe, you cannot beat brunch at a.cafe. Come here to enjoy a hot cup of coffee along with lemon ricotta pancakes, omelettes, and other delicious brunch delicacies. The French toast is particularly delicious, and you can’t go wrong with the egg sandwiches.

5. Robert

Address: 2 Columbus Circle, b/t Broadway & 8th Ave, inside of The Museum of Art and Design; Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-10pm, Sat-Sun 10:30am-10pm; Price: $30-45 per person

Another place to dine close to the Columbus Circle is Robert. This restaurant has trendy mood lighting and an awesome view; if you grab a window seat (it is worth calling in advance just to reserve one), you will be able to look out on Columbus Circle and Central Park. Lobster Egg Benedict, mushroom omelettes, and other scrumptious brunch items await you. Every dish is presented with visual artistry matched only by the culinary delight of each bite.

4. Sarabeth’s

Address: 40 Central Park South, 59th St b/t 5th & 6th Ave; Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-11pm; Price: $30-45 per person

Right near The Pond, you will find Sarabeth’s. Picture pumpkin waffles, lemon ricotta pancakes, salmon eggs Benedict, and jalapeno omelettes, and you will know some of the fare which graces Sarabeth’s menu. This is an upscale restaurant, but it is well worth it—these may just be the best pancakes and waffles you ever eat.

3. Tavern On The Green

Address: 65th Street & Central Park West, inside of Central Park; Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-11pm, Sat-Sun 9am-11pm; Price: $35-50 per person

Near Sheep Meadow is the famous Tavern On The Green, another upscale dining option in Central Park. Indeed, this location is something of a local landmark, with reservations available up to two months in advance. So if you do plan to eat brunch here, you may want to call ahead when you are planning your trip.

While you can enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner here, many visitors report that the brunch here is arguably the best meal the restaurant serves. At Tavern On The Green, you can enjoy delicacies such as butternut squash toast and scrambled eggs with lox. You cannot beat either of the seating options either. Whether you dine in the light-flooded glass room or outside on the patio, you will be surrounded by the magic of Central Park.

2. Maison Kayser

Address: 1800 Broadway, b/t 58th St & 59th St; Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-10pm; Price: $18-30 per person

A third brunch option right near the Columbus Circle is Maison Kayser. This cafe is a good mid-price option if you are looking for something light. It is certainly not as upscale as some of the other restaurants on this list. The location is great, and the selection of breads and pastries is huge. Here you can enjoy a taste of gourmet without going broke.

1. The Loeb Boathouse

Address: 74th St and East Drive, in Central Park; Hours: Closed; Price: $30-50 per person

One of the most famous landmarks anywhere in Central Park is the Loeb Boathouse. At the boathouse, you can rent a boat or head out on a gondola ride. Afterwards, you can sit down for a meal under the green copper roof. The building itself dates back to 1954 when it was constructed to replace the Victorian structure which used to exist on the site.

The location is of course one of the main draws. Imagine being seated right on the waterfront, watching the boats drifting by as you indulge in the omelette of the day or a warm quiche. The food itself is scrumptious, and considering the iconic setting, it is very reasonably priced.

Conclusion: Central Park is a Culinary Cloud Nine

Now you have more than a few brunch ideas to entice your taste buds while you are planning your visit to Central Park. If you book a Central Park Pedicab Tour, we can start a tour from any of these places to eat or your driver can drop you off after the tour is complete at any of these restaurants or cafes. Bon appétit!

You might also interested in Breakfast Places Near Central Park

All content is © Peter Pen Tours of Central Park

Central Park

11 Reasons Central Park Will Be the Best Part of Your Trip to NYC

October 24, 2017 Peter Pen Adventures 3 Comments

Covering an impressive 843 acres, Central Park in Manhattan is one of the most iconic urban parks in the world. In fact, if you are planning a trip to New York City, it is probably on your bucket list.

If it isn’t, take out your itinerary and rearrange your schedule. Seriously—do it. You don’t want to miss out on Central Park. It could very well end up being the most exciting part of your entire trip. Here are just a few reasons why.

1. Get away from the crowds.

For starters, this vast park is your best chance at taking a breather from the crowds of New York City. While some parts of the park can get pretty packed at certain times of the year, other areas are surprisingly secluded.

For example, visit the Hallett Nature Sanctuary, and you’ll find yourself with four acres of tranquil woodlands to explore. You can also try the 36-acre zone called The Ramble, or the famous North Woods, which includes a small scenic waterfall.

2. Enjoy a different view of the city.

Where else can you get such a dramatic view of the New York City skyline without even leaving the city? Be sure to bring your camera to capture some epic panoramic shots.

3. Relax in a quiet zone.

Central Park not only allows you to escape the crowds of NYC; it also lets you get away from the noise and chaos. The park has eight special areas which are called “quiet zones.” In these zones, you cannot play music without headphones, and dogs have to be on leashes. Running, cycling, and sports are not allowed—but relaxation is. Grab a book, recline on a bench, and enjoy solitude and serenity you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

4. Discover more about the history of NYC.

There is so much to learn about the history of Central Park. Everywhere you go, you will discover surprising and fascinating facts about the past. For example, did you know that Central Park’s creators needed 3 million cubic yards of soil to complete the job? They also had to clear away swamps and construct a reservoir along with the manmade lakes.

5. Share in fun activities for the entire family.

If you are traveling with children, there is no better place to bring them than Central Park. The park boasts so many kid-friendly activities: the Woods and Water Exhibit at Belvedere Castle, the Tisch Children’s Zoo, the Central Park Carousel, and so much more.

6. There are seasonal activities year-round.

During spring or summer, take a rowboat out on the lake and look for ducks and swans. During the wintertime, go ice skating at the famous Wollman Rink. No matter what time of year you visit Central Park, you will find fun seasonal activities await you.

7. Take in culture through live performances.

Enjoy theatre or music? Watch Free Shakespeare in the Park at Delacorte Theater, or take your children to the Marionette Theatre or the summer storytelling at the Hans Christian Anderson Statue. It is also common to stumble across musicians and artists giving impromptu performances in the park. Every day is an adventure offering special moments in time that will never be repeated!

8. Surround yourself in natural beauty.

Did you know there are more than 25,000 trees in Central Park, with around 174 species in all? Additionally, you can see snapping turtles, carp and squirrels, as well as more than 270 different species of birds. So be sure to bring your binoculars and a bird guide.

9. Get some exercise during your trip.

While you will probably do a lot of walking in NYC, you may end up using the cab or subway to get around town. In Central Park, you can put on your tennis shoes and get a great workout on your trip. In fact, you will be so busy exploring and taking in the sights that you will hardly notice how many calories you are burning.

10. Explore the world far beyond NYC.

Central Park has ties to places and times that span far outside the city’s perimeter. One astonishing example is “Cleopatra’s Needle,” an Egyptian obelisk in front of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While the obelisk was placed here in 1881, it is authentic, dating back to 1450 BC when it was originally constructed for a pharaoh in Egypt.

11. You can take a pedicab tour.

Finally, one more great reason to visit Central Park is that you can explore it at your own pace. You can walk if you want, but if you are looking to give your feet a break, you can hire a pedicab driver to show you around. This is the perfect way to pick up cool facts about the park while seeing more than you possibly could on foot.

Now you know some of the reasons why so many tourists in New York say that touring Central Park was the best part of their whole trip. If you add it to your itinerary, it will undoubtedly be yours as well!

Central Park

Is Central Park Safe?

August 4, 2017 Peter Pen Adventures Leave a comment

Is Central Park Safe?

Central Park is safer during the day. In the evening, the risk factors will go up, as they will in any park. This gorgeous park is an oasis in the middle of one of the world’s most impressive and bustling cities. As such, it attracts people from all over the world.

The park covers 3.41 kilometers. It’s a big park with lots of attractions and areas, from the Reservoir that Jackie Kennedy Onassis used to jog past regularly to the winding woodland pathways of the Ramble. The Ramble has been the scene of some violent crime in the past. Of course, there have also been problems with crime in other parts of the park (and outside the park, on Big Apple city streets).

How to Stay Safe

We know that there is crime in NYC. However, according to statistics, crime rates in New York have dropped dramatically. At this point in time, it’s actually the safest big city in the nation. When it comes to staying safe in beautiful Central Park, which was modeled after some of the world’s premier green spaces, including Paris’ Bois de Boulogne.

Central Park safe — Central Park Pedicab Tour

You can boost the odds of being safe by choosing an activity, such as a pedicab tour in Central Park, which allows you to tour the park with a pedicab driver. He will operate the pedicab by cycling. Traveling in a pedicab will give you an extra layer of security, as you won’t be alone. Even if you’re with a friend of family members (three people fit in the back of a pedicab), you’ll find that touring the park with a pedicab driver who is familiar with the park (when you are not) gives you a greater sense of security. As well, pedicab tours of Central Park run during the day, so you’ll be able to visit the park when it’s safest.

Central Park Food

5 Amazing Places for Breakfast near Central Park South

July 5, 2017 Peter Pen Adventures Leave a comment

If you have been searching for a place to enjoy a top-notch breakfast near Central Park South, you want to check out as many of these five hotspots as possible!

5. Le Pain Quotidien

A truly European-style café with some of the freshest food available in the kind of baked goods that draw people from throughout the tri-state area on a regular basis, this restaurant can get a little bit crowded on weekend mornings but is a very accessible spot for those looking to eat breakfast during the week. Address: 922 7th Avenue (corner of 58th Street & 7th Avenue); Hours: 7am-9pm.

4. Petrossian Boutique & Cafe

A French style café well-known for its incredibly decadent menu, if you’re looking to upgrade significantly from the traditional “bacon and eggs” kind of breakfast available throughout NYC this is going to become a favorite spot of yours. Address: 911 7th Avenue (7th Avenue btw 58th & 57th Street; Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30am-8pm, Sat/Sun 8/9am-8/6pm.

3. Sarabeth’s

Many consider this restaurant to be the very genesis of a New York style breakfast, and it’s easy to see why. Serving New Yorkers everything they could ever want for breakfast and brunch on a weekend morning since 1983, this is a New York institution you’ll have to visit at least once – but don’t be surprised if you continue to come back time and time again! Address: 40 Central Park South (59th Street btw 5th & 6th Avenue); Hours: 8am-11pm.

2.Maison Kayser

Another of the French style cafés that have become so popular in Central Park South, this breakfast spot is part of a chain of bakeries and cafés that are based in Paris but have spread all over the world and can now be found in pretty much every major city of note. The baked goods available from this breakfast spot are as close to the truly authentic and legendary baked goods you’d only find in Paris as you’re going to be able to enjoy in the US today. Address: 1800 Broadway (Broadway btw 59th & 58th Street): Hours: 7am-10pm.

1. A.Cafe

Perhaps one of the most quintessentially New York breakfast spots around, this cafe is exactly what people from all over the world expect when they think about NYC breakfast cafes. The coffee here is exceptional, the breakfast dishes perfectly prepared, and the offerings uniquely American in their sensibilities. Location like whole in the wall @ 42 West 58th Street (58th Street btw 5th & 6th Avenue): Hours: 8am-4pm.

And what it is good that all this cozy places to eat near to our Central Park Rickshaw Tour departure location or we can pick you from any of this cafes. Just give us a call or book online!

By the way if you like this page you might also like our sister page: Central Park Coffee Shops

Places for Breakfast near Central Park South Map

Infographic: Breakfast Near Central Park

Best Breakfast Near Central Park

Central Park

Discover the Best Central Park Restaurants and Places to Eat

April 7, 2017 Peter Pen Adventures Leave a comment

Central Park is one of the Big Apple’s shining jewels. It’s a huge New York City, USA park which covers eight hundred and forty-three acres and it’s located right in the heart of beautiful Manhattan!

Central Park was established way back in 1857, so it has a rich, colorful and meaningful heritage. It’s an oasis in the midst of one of the world’s most bustling and fast-paced cities! The park was designed to rival the most stunning parks in Europe, such as the Bois de Boulogne in Paris and London’s Hyde Park…and it definitely does!

Within Central Park, there are so many great things to see and do. For example, the park is home to ice rinks, fountains, theaters, lakes, baseball fields, playgrounds and tennis courts. As well, it’s the home to the Central Park Zoo (a great place to see Snow Leopards and Sea Lions!) and the wonderful Metropolitan Museum of Art, which is the biggest art museum in the USA.

Also, you should know that plenty of wonderful eateries are found within Central Park…or very close by!

Today, we’d like to share information about these impressive eateries. We want you to find the best Central Park restaurants.

We know that you’ll love these special restaurants and their food, ambiance and service.

The Loeb Boathouse Restaurant is So Special

When you choose this sophisticated eatery, your meal will become yet another unforgettable memory of your time in New York City. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a special meal which is a gourmet delight, as well as a unique and enjoyable experience (reservations are recommended, so plan ahead). During summer season reservations are not excepted on the weekends. You have to come there and wait. Average time wait around 30 min, but it depends.

Now, let’s talk about the background of The Boathouse. It’s a little touch of Central Park heritage!

At The Loeb Boathouse, it’s possible to rent a boat or go on a group gondola ride. There is a fleet of one hundred rowboats available for rental and gondola tours are run by Boathouse staff on a regular basis. The Boathouse also features The Lakeside Restaurant, which is truly exquisite. The whole Boathouse structure is very attractive. Its decorative elements make it a great setting for a fine dining experience.

Naturally, The Boathouse has a nautical theme. It’s actually the second boathouse constructed at this location in Central Park. The first boathouse was designed in the Victorian style, by architect, Calvert Vaux, way back in 1872.

The initial boathouse did not provide exceptional fine dining. It was a working boathouse which measured only 12 feet in width and 20 feet in length.

During 1924, the boathouse was replaced by another structure with a rustic look. By the 50s, this replacement building was in dire need of refurbishment.

Luckily, a philanthropist named Carl M. Loeb (along with his wife, Adeline) stepped in and donated funds for repairs and refurbishment. The end result of the costly refurbishment is the same Loeb Boathouse that tourists and Big Apple residents enjoy today…

Now, let’s talk about the food!

The Loeb Boathouse features three dining options, which are The Lakeside Restaurant, The Outside Bar and the Express Cafe. The Lakeside Restaurant is our pick for a superb (and refined!) brunch or lunch in the park (this eatery doesn’t serve dinner). The other options at The Loeb Boathouse are more casual.

It’s absolutely the poshest option at the boathouse location and well worth it if you want a treat!

The restaurant is lovely, with a serene lakeside view, starched white tablecloths, plenty of pretty, pale columns between tables and lots of comfortable latticework chairs.

Examples of appetizers offered include Passion Fruit Salmon Ceviche, Seasonal Oysters and Macaroni Au Gratin.

Lunch entrees to consider include Seafood Pasta and Chili-rubbed Pork Loin. For dessert, why not indulge by choosing the decadent Sour Cream Cheesecake with masticated cherries? For brunch, you may want to enjoy classic Eggs Benedict, which always features a heavenly dollop of creamy Hollandaise Sauce!

You’ll have plenty of menu options for brunch and lunch. This restaurant is licensed and offers some brilliant cocktails (including a truly inspired Elderflower Cosmopolitan), along with great wines and beers.

Entrees for brunch range in price between sixteen and twenty-six dollars, while entrees for lunch range between twenty-seven and thirty-eight dollars. Prices may be subject to change. We’re only mentioning them to give you a sense of what you’ll need to spend.

Address: East 74th St and East Drive Tel: +1 212 517 2233

Now, let’s move on to another famous and beloved restaurant in Central Park…

Tavern on the Green is Truly Legendary

Tavern on the Green features the very best in American-style cuisine and its situated within Central Park. You’ll find it close to the West 66th Street and Central Park West intersection. This restaurant was open from the mid 1930s to 2009. During this time frame, it had a range of different owners.

In 2010, until 2014, it was utilized as a public space for park visitors. Then, the space was renovated and the refurbished Tavern on the Green was re-opened, during spring of 2014.

This restaurant sees a lot of tourist traffic. For example, during 2007, half a million visitors dropped by for a bite! These big visitor numbers mean that Tavern on the Green is the second-most profitable restaurant in the country.

Weekend brunch and daily lunch and dinner are offered at this modern eatery, which is nestled in a lovely and serene, pastoral setting. If you make a reservation for brunch, consider Roasted Figs as a delectable appetizer and the move onto Steak and Eggs as a Main Course.

If you prefer to enjoy lunch at Tavern on the Green, consider an appetizer of Maple Grilled Smoked Bacon, followed by Organic Chicken Paillard.

For dinner, you’ll have so many amazing choices, such as Hand Cut Steak Tartare as an appetizer (it’s served on a grilled baguette) and Caramelized Diver Sea Scallops for a main course.

This restaurant isn’t cheap. Entrees for dinner range in price between twenty-four dollars (for a vegetarian option) to fifty-four dollars. This is a modern and elegant eatery with all of the bells and whistles. It’s a place to savor everything that is special about American cuisine and everything that is special about Central Park!

Address: 66th St & Central Park West Tel: +1 212 877 8684 Website

LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN is classic Belgian bakery chain. Located above Sheep’s Meadow.

KERBS BOATHOUSE SNACK BAR – name speaks for itself (snacks and drinks). You can rent remote control sailboats there. Located on eastern side of Conservatory Water (74th Street and 5th Ave)

WAFELS & DINGES the best waffles in the city! Located at 5th Ave & 60th Street

Ballfields Cafe is self-serve snack shop with tables serving tasty hot dogs & burgers with great beer. Located at Heckscher Softball Fields and close to Carousel, around 65th Street Transverse.

In the “city that never sleeps”, there’s no shortage of dining options! However, everything that we’ve recommended today is located within Central Park. We want you to know where to grab the best grub while you’re touring the park and its plethora of diverting attractions, including Strawberry Fields, which is a tribute to the late Beatle, John Lennon, Bethesda Fountain and the Reservoir.

Take a Bite Out of the Big Apple

Start your love affair with the Big Apple by taking a bite out of it at one of the best places to eat in Central Park Restaurants.

When you combine a fabulous meal with a jaunt in the park, you’ll be having the ultimate New York City experience.

Lots of tourists take Fun Central Park Pedicab Tours which end at The Boathouse Restaurant or at Tavern on the Green. This may be something that you wish to consider. Pedicab tours will allow you to ride in comfort and avoid a ton of walking, before or after enjoying a world-class meal! These tours will allow you to hit all of the most interesting and beautiful park highlights.

Map of Central Park Restaurants

If you looking for a great cup of coffee near Central Park check out our article about Central Park Coffee Shops. Buon appetite!!!

Central Park Restaurants

Central Park

8 Things You Didn’t Know About Central Park

September 17, 2016 Peter Pen Adventures 7 Comments

8 Interesting Facts About Central Park

When planning a trip to the ever bustling New York City, one place you should not miss visiting is the Central Park. Frequented by tourists and locals alike, this urbanized park is home to a myriad of natural scenic spots and fun-filled activities.

But to further prove how great Central Park is, here are some of the best fun facts you probably need to know.

8. Interesting Facts About Central Park – CONCERTS

Central Park was one of those best outdoor venues for huge concerts. But not only that, it is even one of the venue for the largest concerts ever in terms of estimated attendance. That seems quite a feat but the huge space that the park offers was able to accommodate around 980,000 attendees during Garth Brooks’ concert in 1997.

7. Interesting Facts About Central Park – BEDROCK

Thousands of years ago, the area where Central Park now stands is covered and surrounded by glaciers. But about 12,000 years ago, the last of them known as the Wisconsin Glacier finally melted away.

But if you’re still in doubt, the large boulders (bedrock) you can see around the park are in fact left there when the glaciers receded and serves as the strongest geological evidence of their existence then.

6. Interesting Facts About Central Park – IT’S BIGGER THAN COUNTRIES

Found in the midst of Manhattan island, Central Park covers around 3.5 square miles and stretches across 843 acres of land.

Such dimensions make the park larger than Vatican city and almost six times larger than Monaco.

If that isn’t huge, then we don’t know what is.

5. Interesting Facts About Central Park – NEW YORK’S SUPERSTAR

Just like the rest of New York City, Central Park has been featured in over 350 films and counting over the years.

That’s why it holds the title of most filmed public park in the world. Awesome!

4. Interesting Facts About Central Park – HOME SWEET HOME

While it doesn’t really provide the real comforts of a home, Central Park is considered a real home by quite a few. Based on the U.S. 2010 census, 25 people claim the park to be their home.

But just to be clear, the park’s officials cleared there are no permanent residents in Central Park. Good.

3. Interesting Facts About Central Park – OUTDOOR MUSEUM

If you want to experience both nature and arts, then New York’s Central Park is the place to be. Do you know that a total of 29 amazing and unique sculptures are found around the area? Yes, and most of these are even donated privately.

Most of the popular ones are that of Alice and Wonderland, sled dog, and Duke Ellington. While a lot of famous authors and poets have sculptures located in the Literary Walk.

2. Interesting Facts About Central Park – CONSTRUCTION TOOK A LOT OF HARD WORK

To ensure that strolling around the park will be as seamless as possible, transverse roads were built. But it sure was not easy. To make this possible, gun powder had to be used to blast a solid bedrock.

It is even claimed that more gun powder was used in this effort than during the Civil War’s Battle of Gettysburg.

1. Interesting Facts About Central Park – EVERYTHING IS INTERACTIVE

What sets this park apart from others out there is that it can now be navigated through an app. Yes, Central Park has its own app which can ensure you won’t get lost anymore. It uses 40 celebrity voices to help recommended around 40 areas of interest.

But if you really want to maximize the experience, taking the Central Park pedicab tours with experienced drivers as your very own tour guides is the best way to go.

So are you convinced now? Well, hopefully you are. Make new memories with your families and friends. And enjoy the heat of the sun inside New York City’s very own Central Park.