Summer is here at last! From live music to sports to family-friendly adventures, there are so many ways to enjoy the busiest months in Central Park. Plan ahead with our Summer Guide and find the best spots for some fun in the sun.

The mission of the Central Park Conservancy is to restore, manage, and enhance Central Park in partnership with the public. The Central Park Conservancy raises 75% of the Park’s annual budget from private sources and is responsible for all of the essential work that keeps Central Park beautiful.

IN THIS GUIDE 2 Get Active in

Central Park

4 Public Programs and Events

6 Family Programs

7 Youth Programs and Member Events

8 Central Park Map

CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY SUMMER GUIDE 2018

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HarlemMeer

The Pool

Reservoir

Turtle Pond

ConservatoryWaterThe

Lake

The Pond

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CENTRAL PARK NORTH (110TH ST)

CENTRAL PARK SOUTH (59TH ST)

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Heckscher Ballfields

GET ACTIVE IN CENTRAL PARK

1. TAKE A DIP AT LASKER POOLOperated by NYC Parks, Lasker Pool is an Olympic-sized pool that is open daily during the summer. This year’s season runs from June 27 to September 9. Free sunscreen is also available. To secure your belongings, please bring a combination lock. Visit the NYC Parks website for more details. LOCATION: Mid-Park between 106th and 108th Streets

2. ORGANIZE SOFTBALL OR BASEBALL GAMESCentral Park is home to 26 ballfields. Heckscher Ballfields, the Great Lawn, and the North Meadow host softball games each summer (the North Meadow is the only one also open to baseball). Don’t forget: use of any athletic field requires a permit from NYC Parks. LOCATION: North Meadow: Mid-Park from 97th to 102nd Street; Great Lawn: Mid-Park from

79th to 85th Street; Heckscher Ballfields: West Side from 63rd to 65th Street

3. PLAY BASKETBALL OR HANDBALLBasketball and handball courts can be found at the North Meadow Recreation Center and northeast of the Great Lawn. Basketballs and handballs are free to borrow at the Recreation Center. No permit is required, and courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Kids can also enhance their skills at our Youth Basketball Clinic. LOCATION: North Meadow Recreation Center: Mid-Park at 97th Street;

Great Lawn: Mid-Park at 85th Street

With warmer days upon us, it’s the perfect time to get active in Central Park! Want to take advantage of the Park’s lush green lawns, dozens of ballfields and courts, and more than 50 miles of paths? We’ve got you covered.

CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY SUMMER GUIDE 2018

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GET ACTIVE IN CENTRAL PARK continued

4. CREATE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE WITH A FIELD DAY KITBorrow a kit with a wiffle ball and bat, footballs, a soccer ball, a Frisbee, jump ropes, cones, and a playground ball for free at the North Meadow Recreation Center — then find some open space at the North Meadow or the nearby East Meadow. LOCATION: Mid-Park at 97th Street

5. PLAY TENNISThe Central Park Tennis Center offers 30 courts and private lessons for players of all ages and levels. LOCATION: West Side between 94th and 96th Streets

6. GO BOATING ON THE LAKERenting a row boat on Central Park’s second largest water body is a great way to spend a lazy afternoon in the Park. Boats can be rented at the Loeb Boathouse daily from April through October, weather permitting. Prefer if someone else does the work? Venetian gondola tours are also available. Visit the Loeb Boathouse website for more details. LOCATION: East Side between 74th and 75th Streets

7. GO LAWN BOWLING OR PLAY CROQUETTwo fields northwest of Sheep Meadow are used for lawn bowling and croquet — visit the New York Lawn Bowling Club and New York Croquet Club to learn more. LOCATION: Mid-Park at 69th Street

8. PLAY VOLLEYBALLPick-up volleyball games can be played year-round, and courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are two asphalt courts and two sand courts just east of Sheep Meadow, and two additional asphalt courts northeast of the Great Lawn. Don’t forget to bring your own ball! For play on asphalt courts, you’ll also need to bring your own net. Permits are required only for tournaments and special events. LOCATION: Mid-Park at 67th Street and at 85th Street

EXPLORE THE PARK BY BIKEThere are many routes for bicyclists (see our official bicycling map) and you can rent bikes through BikeRent NYC, which operates at Grand Army Plaza and Columbus Circle on a seasonal basis. Rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit our bicycling page for more details. LOCATION: Throughout the Park

GO FOR A RUN OR A WALKCentral Park offers a variety of loops and trails. There’s the popular Reservoir running track, which offers some of the best views of New York City. There’s also the loop — totaling just over 6 miles — and the bridle path, which offers a soft, dirt surface throughout the Park. Before hitting the pavement, be sure to download our official running map. LOCATION: Throughout the Park

CENTRAL PARK IS GOING CAR-FREE!Beginning June 27, all of Central Park’s drives will be

permanently off limits to public vehicular traffic.

Learn more

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PUBLIC PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Official Central Park ToursGet an insider’s perspective on the history, design, and landscapes of Central Park on an official tour. Visit centralparknyc.org/tours to purchase tickets and see our full schedule of tours.

DON’T FORGETMembers receive discounted tickets on all Official Central Park Tours.

Not a member?

Join Today

HALLETT NATURE SANCTUARY AND THE POND TOUR | Tickets: $15 (Members $10)Wednesday, June 27 | 2:00 – 3:30 pm Sunday, July 1 | 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm Sunday, July 29 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am Meet at the Dairy Visitor Center & Gift Shop (Mid-Park between 64th and 65th Streets)

Preserved for decades as a bird sanctuary, the Hallett Nature Sanctuary provides space for diverse wildlife and serves as a peaceful haven for visitors.

EAST SIDE EVENING STROLL | FreeThursdays, July 5, 19 & August 2, 16, 30 | 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Meet inside the Park at Fifth Avenue and 61st Street

Join us for a casual evening stroll as the sun sets over Central Park. Highlights include the Zoo, a native meadow, and the Mall and Bethesda Terrace. Learn the secrets of these beloved sites and see the Park in a new light.

THE NORTH WOODS TOUR | Tickets: $15 (Members $10)*Wednesdays, July 11, 25 & August 8, 22 | 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm Sundays, July 15 & August 12, 26 | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm Friday, August 17 | 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm (in Español) Meet at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (110th Street between Lenox and Fifth Avenues)

The largest of the Park’s woodlands, the newly restored North Woods offers people and wildlife a 40-acre forest retreat in the middle of New York City. Admire the tumbling waterfalls, rustic bridges, and picturesque pools.

*The last tour of the month is free.

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PUBLIC PROGRAMS AND EVENTS continued

Join us for these free, outdoor concerts happening throughout the season — and don’t forget your dancing shoes!

HARLEM MEER PERFORMANCE FESTIVAL | FreeSundays, June 17 – September 2 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues)

This annual festival, in its 25th year, brings the best local talent to Central Park! Enjoy a variety of performances featuring multicultural music and dance, family-friendly entertainment, and more while admiring the lakeside views. All ages are welcome. Visit centralparknyc.org/hmpf for details.

Sponsored by

GREAT JAZZ ON THE GREAT HILL | FreeSaturday, August 4 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm Great Hill (Enter at West 106th Street)

Bring a blanket, picnic food, and dancing shoes for this fun event! Co-presented with Jazzmobile, Great Jazz on the Great Hill features live music and swing dancing in a beautiful setting. Visit centralparknyc.org/greatjazz for more details closer to the event.

CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY FILM FESTIVAL

Tuesday, August 14 – Friday, August 17 Gates open at 6:30 pm | Movies start at dusk Landscape between Sheep Meadow and 72nd Street Cross Drive

The Central Park Conservancy Film Festival is a beloved summer tradition that showcases great films in a great urban park. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the magic of the movies under the stars. Visit centralparknyc.org/filmfest for details.

Presented by

In partnership with With additional support from

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CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY SUMMER GUIDE 2018

FAMILY PROGRAMS

Discovery Programs are generously supported by The Dr. Mortimer and Theresa Sackler Foundation.

TOWERING TREES | FreeTake a hike and learn how to tell a maple from an oak! Discover how trees — from seeds to leaves — contribute to the health of an urban woodland community.

THE NORTH WOODS Saturdays, July 7, 21 & August 4, 18 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm Meet at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (110th Street between Lenox and Fifth Avenues)

Along with beautiful arches and peaceful waterfalls, the North Woods provides a taste of the Adirondack Mountains in the middle of New York City.

THE RAMBLE Saturdays, July 14, 28 & August 11, 25 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm Meet in front of the entrance to the Loeb Boathouse Express Cafe (East Drive and 75th Street)

In the words of Central Park co-designer Frederick Law Olmsted, the Ramble is a 36-acre “wild garden.” Explore the landscape at the heart of the Park’s historic design.

GARDENS | FreeSaturday, June 30 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Meet at the Vanderbilt Gate at Conservatory Garden (Fifth Avenue and 105th Street)

Explore the various plants and landscapes in Central Park’s only formal garden. Learn about Conservatory Garden’s history and design from the people who know it best.

Discovery Walks for FamiliesBring your family for a guided walk and discover why Central Park is a sanctuary for plants, animals, and humans alike. Learn about the architecture, landscapes, and ecosystems of the Park through hands-on exploration using Discovery Kits — rugged backpacks filled with kid-friendly binoculars, field guides, and hand lenses. Visit centralparknyc.org/discoverywalks for more information and to register.

SHOW OFF YOUR CUTE CANINE IN CENTRAL PARKWe’re releasing a 2019 calendar showcasing the dogs of Central Park — and your pet has the chance to make an appearance inside! Now through July 16, you can submit photos for Central Bark, our 2019 calendar showcasing the dogs of Central Park. Does your furry friend love strolling down the Mall? How about jogging around the Great Hill? Submit a photo of your dog at an iconic Central Park location, and your pup may be featured in our calendar. We’ll narrow down the submissions and then voting starts on July 23. Visit centralparknyc.org/centralbark for more information.

Central Bark

2019 CALENDAR

CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY SUMMER GUIDE 2018

YOUTH PROGRAMS MEMBER EVENTSShow your support for Central Park with a Conservancy membership. Our members help keep Central Park beautiful throughout the summer season. Benefits include reduced ticket prices, discounts in Central Park, and access to exclusive members-only events and programs. Visit centralparknyc.org/membership to join today.

Drawing Class with Jessica Daryl Winer: Harlem Meer | Free for membersSaturday, July 21 | 10:30 am – 12:00 pm Meet at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (110th Street between Lenox and Fifth Avenues)

Members will learn how to capture the beauty of the Park on paper in this drawing class, led by Centennial Trees of Central Park artist, Jessica Daryl Winer. Attendees should bring a large sketchpad and pencil. No drawing experience is necessary.

Visit centralparknyc.org/mp to register and view our full schedule of member programs.

Not a member?

Join Today

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CHESS LECTURE AND SIMUL SERIES | FreeSaturdays, July 21 & August 18 | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Chess & Checkers House (Mid-Park at 64th Street)

Learn techniques from some of the best names in chess, and then put your new skills to the test with fellow players at our chess lecture and simul series. Ages 6+; prior experience required. Attendees must be present for the entire program to play. Registration begins at 10:00 am. Visit centralparknyc.org/chesslecture for more details.

YOUTH BASKETBALL CLINIC | FreeSaturdays, April 7 – October 27 Ages 5 – 8 (co-ed): 10:30 am – 11:30 am Ages 9 – 17 (co-ed): 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm North Meadow Recreation Center (Mid-Park at 97th Street)

Young athletes can enhance their basketball skills through small group instruction and competitive games in this high-energy, interactive clinic. This program is designed to help players of all levels develop their skills both on the court and off, by focusing on team play and sportsmanship. Ages 5 to 17; open to players of all abilities. Visit centralparknyc.org/basketballclinic to register.

ROOTS (RESTORATION OF THE OUTDOORS ORGANIZED BY TEEN STUDENTS)Saturdays, October – November | 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Application Deadline: August 31

The ROOTS program gives high school students the opportunity to complete a semester-long ecological restoration and management project in the woodlands, and then use those skills to contribute to a restoration project outside of Central Park. Projects include maintaining rustic trails, removing invasive plants, and cultivating new plantings.

Participants build their network of environmentally minded teens while contributing to larger urban stewardship efforts. Acceptance is through a competitive application process. Grades 9 to 12. Visit centralparknyc.org/roots to apply.

Youth Education and Service Programs are supported in part by The Barker Welfare Foundation; Doris Duke Charitable Foundation; Epstein Teicher Philanthropies; Abraham Perlman Foundation; The Pinkerton Foundation; and William E. Weiss Foundation, Inc./Daryl Brown Uber.

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CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY SUMMER GUIDE 2018

CENTRAL PARK MAPHoursCentral Park opens at 6:00 am and closes at 1:00 am, 365 days a year.

Visitor Centers and Facilities Start your trip at a visitor center.

Look for this icon on the map.

Charles A. Dana Discovery Center 110th Street between Fifth & Lenox Avenues

Dairy Visitor Center & Gift Shop Mid-Park at 65th Street

Chess & Checkers House Mid-Park at 64th Street

Columbus Circle Information Kiosk Central Park West at 59th Street

Belvedere Castle Mid-Park at 79th Street Note: Belvedere Castle is closed for restoration and will reopen in 2019.

Connect with us @centralparknyc

centralparknyc.org

Park Drive (shared by pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles)

Transverse Road (vehicles only)

Pedestrian Path (pedestrians only)

Bridle Path (no bicyclists)

Emergency Call Box or Dial 911

Visitor Center

Playground

Information Kiosk

Food / Closed in Winter

Restrooms / Closed in Winter

Wheelchair Accessible

Map Key

Points of Interest

W WEST

W 103 The Ravine / The Loch

W 101 The Pool

W 79 Shakespeare Garden

W 74 Bow Bridge

W 72 Strawberry Fields /

Imagine Mosaic

W 72 Cherry Hill

E EAST

E 107 Harlem Meer

E 105 Conservatory Garden

Open year-round, 8:00 am to dusk.

Tours offered Saturdays, 11:00 am,

April through October

E 90 Reservoir

From 86th to 96th Street

E 81 Obelisk (Cleopatra’s Needle)

E 75 Alice in Wonderland

E 74 Conservatory Water

E 72 Bethesda Terrace /

Bethesda Fountain

E 68 The Mall (Literary Walk)

From 66th to 72nd Street

E 67 Balto

E 62 Gapstow Bridge