Central Park isn’t just a place to walk through on your way to something else. It’s where New Yorkers go to unwind, play, and connect with the city in a different way. While visitors often stick to the main paths and landmarks, there’s so much more to discover beyond the obvious. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, hidden spots, or just want a more local experience, these unique activities will show you a different side of the park. One that feels a little more lived-in and a lot more fun.
1. Central Park Zoo
No matter how you choose to see Central Park (by carriage, by bike, or by foot) you’ll likely pass by the Central Park Zoo. The zoo covers 6.5 acres of the park and holds over 130 species. It’s not a huge zoo, but it’s a great activity for an hour or so to see the snow leopards and penguins. Try to go during off-peak times though or you’ll be competing for space with dozens of strollers. You do need to buy a timed ticket in advance.
2. Row Boat Rentals
One of my favorite sunny day activities in Central Park is to rent a row boat at The Loeb Boathouse. It’s an iconic activity when visiting the park, especially for a special occasion. It might feel touristy, but believe me it’s something you’ll never forget. Boats are available for rent from April to November. Each boat holds up to 4 people. You can row as far as you like within your time frame. The lake is bigger than you might think it is.
3. Central Park PediCab Tour
While a carriage ride in Central Park is often depicted as a romantic activity you do with your love, who might pull out a ring and propose on the ride, it’s not one that we would recommend due to the treatment of the animals. Instead, why not go on a pedicab tour. A pedicab is a carriage pulled by a bike rider. There are dozens of Pedicab Tours available that will take you through Central Park in 1 hour or more. See the park’s famous bridges, fountains, and statues and ride past popular movie scenes, all with a fun and informative driver/guide.
4. Go On a Bike Ride or Tour
You’ll notice right away that Central Park is mostly a pedestrian and bike-friendly zone. There are places where cars can drive, but traffic is very regulated in the park, so it’s safe for a runner or biker to get around without having to dodge cars. You can rent bikes for the whole family at Central Park Sightseeing. They will supply you with a map of things to see in the park and send you off on your way to explore. Or you can take a guided tour and the guide will show you all around to the top sights. The guided tour lasts about 2 hours.
5. Discover the Statues, Monuments & Buildings
Taking a stroll around the park will allow you to stop off at all of the things you see along the way, including numerous statues, monuments, and buildings. You can do this at your own pace with a map, or you can take a guided walking tour with Central Park Sightseeing. Unless you look at a map of the park and look intently for these landmarks, you might not even know they’re hidden in there. But there are actually dozens of statues and such in the park. Some of the most popular are listed below.
6. Central Park Ice Skating
During the winter, there’s nothing more fun than ice skating in Central Park. There are two main ice-skating rinks in Central Park, Wollman Rink and Lasker Rink. You can rent skates and lockers for your things at both rinks. For the Wollman Rink, enter the Park at 59th Street and 6th Avenue, or 59th Street and 5th Avenue.
7. Explore the Ramble’s Wooded Trails
Lose yourself (just a little) in the Ramble, a 36-acre woodland area with twisting paths, rustic bridges, and quiet birdwatching spots. It feels completely different from the rest of the park—more like a mini forest in the middle of Manhattan. Great for a peaceful solo walk or a nature escape without leaving the city.
8. Take a Photo Walk at Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace
Bring your camera or phone and head to two of the park’s most photogenic spots—Bow Bridge with its sweeping curves and Bethesda Terrace with its iconic fountain and tiled arcade. Early morning or golden hour is best for fewer crowds and better light. You’ll leave with frame-worthy shots and maybe a new favorite photo of the city.
9. Visit the Conservatory Garden
Tucked in the park’s northeast, this formal garden divides into three distinct styles—English, Italian, and French—offering a peaceful escape amid floral arrangements and winding walkways. It’s quieter, classically beautiful, and perfect for a moment of calm.
10. Picnic by Sheep Meadow or The Great Lawn
Grab a spot on one of the park’s famous lawns—Sheep Meadow or The Great Lawn—and set out your spread. Locals bring everything from takeout to gourmet cheese boards; you’ll join in the easy-chill energy and maybe stay for the live music or skyline views as the sun sets.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.