Explore Central Park’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks with a self-guided audio tour. Discover history, nature, and design in this urban oasis.
Explore Central Park’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks with a self-guided audio tour. Discover history, nature, and design in this urban oasis.
- Bethesda Terrace - This beautifully designed terrace leads to one of Central Park’s most cherished landmarks—the Angel of the Waters fountain, adorned with decorative tiles and offering expansive views. Bethesda Terrace serves as both a meeting point and a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle.
- The Mall - The Mall and Literary Walk is a…
- Bethesda Terrace - This beautifully designed terrace leads to one of Central Park’s most cherished landmarks—the Angel of the Waters fountain, adorned with decorative tiles and offering expansive views. Bethesda Terrace serves as both a meeting point and a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle.
- The Mall - The Mall and Literary Walk is a majestic, tree-lined avenue where elm trees form a canopy overhead and statues of literary figures stand guard. It is one of the few formal, planned areas in the Park, intended for leisurely walks, reading, and enjoying the surroundings.
- Bow Bridge - A stunning cast-iron bridge with Gothic features that spans serene waters, often surrounded by willows and reflective surfaces. Bow Bridge is a popular spot for photographers and couples seeking panoramic views of the city in its natural setting.
- Belvedere Castle - Situated atop Vista Rock, this small castle provides views high above the treetops, with towers, terraces, and an observatory. Belvedere Castle offers a sense of stepping into another world within the Park.
- Strawberry Fields, John Lennon Memorial - Strawberry Fields is a tranquil tribute to John Lennon. The shaded garden area attracts visitors with its Imagine mosaic centerpiece and message of peace, creating a space for remembrance and quiet gathering.
- Alice in Wonderland Statue - A delightful bronze sculpture where Alice, the Mad Hatter, and friends captivate both children and adults. The statue highlights the playful aspect of Central Park in vivid detail.
- Conservatory Garden Center Fountain - Divided into three themed gardens, this formal area is filled with blooms, fountains, and tranquility. The Conservatory Garden & Fountain is one of the Park’s best retreats for those seeking beauty without crowds.
- The Ramble - A densely wooded, winding landscape designed to feel wild and untamed in the heart of Manhattan. Ideal for birdwatching, exploring hidden trails, and escaping the city’s structured environment.
- The Great Lawn - A vast, open meadow that has hosted concerts, picnics, sports, and free expression for generations. The Great Lawn is a dynamic space—grass, skyline, and sky all contribute to the experience.
- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir - The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is a large water body surrounded by running paths and framed by skyline views on all sides. It is particularly striking at sunrise or sunset, with water, light, and sky in gentle harmony.
- Shakespeare Garden - Nestled just off the paths, Shakespeare Garden honors the Bard with flowers mentioned in his works and a romantic design—a green oasis of poetry in bloom.
- Gapstow Bridge - A rustic stone arch that spans a gently flowing inlet, with the city reflected in water and trees in all directions. It’s a short walk, but one that offers enchanting views.
- Central Park Zoo - Compact and delightful, Central Park Zoo offers close encounters with penguins, snow leopards, sea lions, and more. It is an ideal destination for families or anyone interested in urban wildlife.
- The Obelisk - The Obelisk is an ancient Egyptian monument standing tall among trees and pathways—it is one of New York’s oldest public monuments. The stone, inscriptions, and surrounding plaza provide a profound sense of history.
- Delacorte Theater - An open-air theater where Shakespeare in the Park and other free performances have delighted audiences. Delacorte Theater is especially enchanting at twilight, when sound, stars, and stage merge.
- Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre - A charming cottage that hosts performances of small scale but grand imagination. Puppetry, artistry, and whimsy come together in a beautifully preserved setting.
- Harlem Meer - This serene lake is surrounded by greenery and activity in the Park’s northern area—rowboats, fishing, and picnics. It feels secluded yet connected to the city’s energy.
- North Woods - One of Central Park’s most rugged areas, the North Woods is filled with rock ledges, dense forest, and flowing streams. It is designed to feel like a miniature wilderness.
- Hallett Nature Sanctuary - A wild, protected area hidden behind dramatic cliffs and city sidewalks—ideal for observing native plants, birds, and finding quiet green solitude.
- Ladies Pavilion - A delicate, elevated pavilion set on a slope, offering lovely views and poetic design elements. The Ladies Pavilion is elegant, quietly beautiful, and often overlooked.
- The Pond - At the southeastern edge, this calm water body reflects the trees and buildings. Geese and wildlife often appear on this easy walk, providing a moment to feel distant from the city.
- Balto Statue - A bronze tribute to the sled dog hero of Alaska, this statue is small but full of character. The Balto Statue reminds visitors that even in the heart of New York, other landscapes and stories are present.

- Unlimited access
- Audio guide
- App and tour download
- Unlimited access
- Audio guide
- App and tour download
- Smartphone (bring your own)
- Smartphone (bring your own)
Experience Central Park in a whole new way with a self-guided audio tour that unveils its serene beauty and fascinating history.
This engaging journey is crafted to embody the vision of its designers, inviting exploration of peaceful areas like Hallett Nature Sanctuary and renowned landmarks such as Bethesda Fountain and Bow Bridge.
Uncover the tales…
Experience Central Park in a whole new way with a self-guided audio tour that unveils its serene beauty and fascinating history.
This engaging journey is crafted to embody the vision of its designers, inviting exploration of peaceful areas like Hallett Nature Sanctuary and renowned landmarks such as Bethesda Fountain and Bow Bridge.
Uncover the tales behind secret treasures like Shakespeare Garden and Belvedere Castle, all while reconnecting with nature in this urban haven.
— Self-guided audio tour highlighting Central Park’s design and history
— Explore iconic locations such as Bethesda Fountain and Bow Bridge
— Discover hidden narratives in the park’s peaceful areas and gardens
— Experience the park as imagined by its creators, Olmsted and Vaux
- Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required
- GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location
- Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires
- Get the Drives & Detours app download the tour ahead of time
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.