Even Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted would be astonished at the staying power of their 1860s creation, which is arguably the most beloved tourist attraction in New York City. A historic carousel, a small zoo with a separate, excellent petting zoo, and a beautiful ice-skating rink–cum–amusement park alone make Central Park worth a visit, and that’s just in its southernmost six blocks. Even for families on a strict budget, Central Park is a boon, sporting a fairy tale castle where kids can borrow a field kit, a nature center where they can practice catch-and-release fishing, treasured spots like Bethesda Fountain and the Egyptian obelisk, and some of the best playgrounds in the city, including one with a 45-foot marble slide that teaches kids that good things are worth waiting for. Best of all, though, Central Park offers city children a taste of the country, oxygenated air, countless trees and expansive grass lawns included.
RECOMMENDED: 50 best family attractions in NYC
How to support Central Park: You can help maintain the urban oasis by visiting centralparknyc.org.
