Blog

Central Park isn't just a green space for the summertime. It offers something unique every season, from Japanese cherry blossoms in the Spring to open-air ice skating in the winter. Make the most of your visit by checking out the park's seasonal attractions.

Spring

Cherry blossoms mark the coming of spring, with Cherry trees turning parts of Central Park pink during April and May. Bethesda Terrace is usually all abloom! Make sure to read our cherry blossom guide before you set out to make the most of your excursion.

The weather in the Spring can be a bit chilly, so consider a trip to the Swedish Cottage to take in a marionette show by the resident troupe of puppeteers – the last of its kind in the US.

Summer

Sunny days and green fields make summer the busiest season in Central Park. If you want to relax and restore, plan a picnic. Local delis will make this effortless.

The park plays host to an endless stream of summer programming, from the free Summerstage Festival to the Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital Series. There's also live jazz, Shakespeare in the Park, and the list goes on.

Traveling with kids? Head to the park's Heckscher Playground. Little ones can kick off their shoes and enjoy a popular water feature. The Heckscher Playground is located at the South End of Central Park near 61st and 63rd Streets.

Fall

Fall in Central Park is welcomed with German beer as part of the annual Oktoberfest festivities in late September. Wash down your favorite German foodfare with a hefty beer at this annual event, complete with live music. General admission is $35, and you'll want to purchase tickets ahead of time. You can also head to Fifth Avenue to check out the annual German-American Steuben Parade ahead of the celebrations.

The Fall season is also time for the annual pumpkin flotilla, which happens around Halloween on the Harlem Meer. Watch as a string of jack-o-lanterns take to the water during this neighborhood tradition.

If you're visiting from out of town, you'll be delighted to take in the bright colors of fall foliage in the park. The park's diverse trees make for a pleasant palette of yellows, oranges, and reds. Refer to our Central Park Fall Foliage guide to find all the best spots.

Winter

Bring the winter gear to make the most of the park during the colder months! You'll warm up if you get moving. Central Park is home to two outside ice skating rinks: Wollman Rink, and the lesser-known Lasker Rink. Rentals are affordable, and rinks are open from late October to mid-March. See hours, prices and more on our outdoor ice skating guide.

Sledding is another winter pastime in Central Park – and you don't need to buy a sled to get in on the action! Read where to go and what to bring using our handy NYC sledding guide for visitors.

Hotel Beacon on the Upper West Side is ideal for families. Apartment-style rooms with fully-equipped kitchenettes and spacious closets offer you and your little ones space to unwind. Plus, it’s located in the Upper West Side, a laid-back, picturesque neighborhood in Manhattan.