The lungs of NYC is perhaps one of the most visited and well known public areas in the world. It felt so familiar as I strolled through the seemingly endless urban park, probably because its been a popular filming location for many decades. I suppose the best time to visit is Spring through the Fall, but I had to make due with late Winter, Early Spring during my first visit in 2015. Luckily, the sun was out. Central Park is 843 acres and I quickly recognized my visit was going to be a work out! I walked from the South heading North. I enjoyed the arched bridges, many from the original design. The statues, fountains, ponds, and carrousel were all pleasant sites along the way. One of the highlights is surely the lakes, ponds, and massive reservoir. The later (looking South) provides stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum are conveniently located to make Central Park a day well spent, albeit a full one!
I have since visited two more times, Summer 2018 and Spring 2023. Each time I visit, I tend to search for different areas of the park and the hidden nooks that make Central Park so special. During my last visit, I made an effort to see the newly renovated 'Belvedere Castle' (a folly castle) built in 1867, which was pleasant and offered scenic views. Another highlight is the Bethesda Terrace, which is probably the most monumental piece of architecture in Central Park. The wonderful tilework is on full display and was nearly lost as described here.
I can imagine one day soon, where New York City will have 4 or 5 World Heritage Sites:
Statue of Liberty (1984)
Guggenheim - The 20th Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright (2019)