Central Park Photo Spots: A Complete Guide
When it comes to taking photos in New York City, Central Park is an absolute dream for photographers – all year round!
The park’s 843 acres feature picturesque bridges, beautiful architecture, lakes, and streams, that will serve as perfect backdrops for photos.
Photographing the park is one of my favorite things to do, so here are 12 of the best Central Park Photo Spots so you can also capture the park’s beauty.
Here is a NYC Helicopter Tour that soars over the park, and the city’s highlights:
Or hop aboard one of Central Park’s Pedicab guided tours, discover Central Park by bike with this bicycle rental, or explore Central Park with a small group on this walking tour.
Best Central Park Photo Locations
I’ve done dozens of photoshoots in NYC and Central Park over the years! There are a few spots in Central Park that are an absolute must for photography! This park is perfection!
Best Things to Do in Central Park
1. Bethesda Terrace
First up on my list of Central Park Photo Spots is the stunning Bethesda Terrace.
Bethesda Terrace is located in the heart of Central Park. It is flanked by two grand stairways that lead down to a beautiful fountain. You likely remember this spot from Home Alone 2, The Avengers, Enchanted, One Fine Day, and Mr. Deeds!
The Mintons’ encaustic tiles, the New Brunswick sandstone, and the arches take my breath away! Taking photos at this location is not the easiest because of how busy it gets. I recommend arriving as early as possible, right after sunrise!
How to get there: Entry to the Terrace is by way of the drive at 72nd Street.
2. Gapstow Bridge
Everyone loves this location because it highlights The Plaza Hotel, New York City’s skyline, and the park all in one shot!
How to get there: Enter the park via E 62nd Street.
3. Bow Bridge
This Victorian-era bridge spans 60 feet across Central Park Lake and connects Cherry Hill and the Ramble. The graceful arc-shaped bridge provided a backdrop for Spiderman 3, Manhattan, Night At The Museum, Autumn in New York, Uptown Girls, The Way We Were, and Keeping the Faith.
This is the “Most Romantic Bridge in Central Park” and a popular location for proposals and engagement/wedding photos, so keep that in mind (it will get crowded!).
How to get there: Enter by 72nd Street, the bridge is a 3-min. walk from Bethesda Terrace.
4. The Bethesda Fountain
Next up on my list of Central Park photo spots is Bethesda Fountain.
The “Angel of the Waters” neoclassical sculpture is one of the main attractions at Bethesda Terrace. I love this area of the park!
The statue was designed by Emma Stebbins in 1868, and it measures twenty-six feet high by ninety-six feet wide.
How to get there: Find the statue mid-park at 72nd Street.
5. The Lake Viewing Area
At this location, you will get a scenic view of the lake, The San Remo Building, and Manhattan’s East Side.
While this location is pretty hidden, it is totally worth it for a stunning Central Park Instagram shot. Hundreds of proposals take place in this exact spot every year!
How to get there: The easiest way to find this location is to stay to the left after crossing the bow bridge, and then a dirt path will lead you to this spot.
6. Belvedere Castle
Belvedere Castle is a miniature castle located atop the huge rock outcrop known as Vista Rock, the second-highest natural point in Central Park.
Construction of the castle was completed in 1872, and it originally had no windows or doors, as it was intended as an open-air lookout tower.
In 1919 the U.S. Weather Bureau converted the building into a weather station, adding windows and doors, and creating offices inside the structure.
In 1983 the Central Park Conservancy renovated the building and reopened it as a visitor center.
How to get there: Belvedere Castle is just off of the 79th Street Transverse near the Turtle Pond in Central Park.
7 Great Lawn
This is a 55-acre area that is one of the most well-known lawns in the world. Many choose this spot for a picnic, sunbathe, play recreational sports, or simply enjoy the scenery.
How to get there: Mid-Park between 79th and 85th.
8 Bridle Path
The Bridle Path is 4.2 miles long and consists mainly of a softer dirt and gravel surface. The path is highly visited during April and May, also known as cherry blossom season.
If you will be visiting New York City during April or May, see my guide to finding the best cherry blossoms in Central Park!
9 Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir spans 106 acres and at 40 feet deep holds more than one billion gallons of water. At this spot, you will also find a super-popular jogging track that looks lovely during cherry blossom season!
How to get there: 86th to 96th Streets.
10 The Mall & Literary Walk
This is Central Park’s only formal promenade, a wide straight path lined by stands of American elms. It’s a gorgeous area and the spot where our engagement photos took place many years ago!
The southern section is known as the “Literary Walk” because it is surrounded by statues of Shakespeare, Robert Burns & other well-known literary writers.
How to get there: Mid-Park at 66th.
11 The Rock Lookout
Umpire Rock is one of Central Park’s largest and most impressive rock outcrops! The rock is a destination for climbing, exploring, and picnicking as well as enjoying views of the surrounding scenery.
How to get there: West Side at 63rd Street.
12 Oak Bridge
Oak Bridge was designed as one of the major entrances to the Ramble and a focal point in the landscape. It’s also a popular destination for birdwatchers.
The original bridge was built almost entirely in white oak and was prone to deterioration as a result. In the early 20th century, it was replaced with a simpler footbridge.
How to get there: West Side at 77th.
Best Time To Take Pictures in Central Park
Because Central Park is one of the most visited spots in New York City, I suggest you arrive at sunrise to avoid the crows.
The photos that I shared on today’s guide were taken by me immediately after sunrise, or in the early morning.
I hope this list helps you capture beautiful photos during your visit to Central Park!
Central Park Photography Map
Book: Central Park from above on this Helicopter Tour.
Most Popular Things To Do
Add these popular NYC activities to your itinerary!
Best Hotels near Central Park
New York City offers some of the best hotels in the world! The hotels listed below are located near Central Park. Click on any hotel below to view their availability:
Tours mentioned in this article:
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