Central Park is one of the must-see attraction in New York City. The park’s 843 acres feature numerous picturesque bridges, beautiful architecture, lakes and streams, so it is understandable that it is one of the most filmed locations in the world.
There is so much to see at Central Park, so to make it easier for you, I am sharing six iconic Central Park locations that you will love to see during your visit to New York City.
The Best Central Park Photo locations for Instagram
First up on my list of Central Park photo spots, my favorite, The Bethesda Terrace.
1. The 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 may have seen this spot featured in movies like Home Alone 2, The Avengers, Enchanted, One Fine Day, and Mr. Deeds. It was also the location of Ralph Lauren’s 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2018, when he transformed the terrace into the backdrop for an epic runway show and an elegant seated dinner for 500 guests.
The Mintons encaustic tiles, the New Brunswick sandstone and the arches take my breath away! Taking photos at this location can be a bit challenging because of how busy it gets. I recommend arriving as early as possible!
How to get to The Bethesda Terrace: Entry to the Terrace is by way of the drive at 72nd Street.
2. The 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 to The Gapstow Bridge: Enter the park via E 62nd Street.
3. The Bow Bridge
This Victorian-era bridge spans 60 feet across the 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!
How to get to The Bow Bridge: Enter by 72nd Street, the bridge is a 3 minute walk from Bethesda Terrace.
4. The Bethesda Fountain
Next up on my list of Central Park photo spots, The Bethesda Fountain! The “Angel of the Waters” neoclassical sculpture is one of the main attractions at The Bethesda Terrace. The statue was designed by Emma Stebbins in 1868, and it measures twenty-six feet high by ninety-six feet wide.
How to get to The Bethesda Fountain: 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, and Manhattan’s East Side. While this location is pretty hidden, it is totally worth it for a stunning Central Park Instagram shot!
How to get to the Lake Viewing Area: The easiest way to find this location is stay to the left after crossing the bow bridge, and then a dirt path will lead you to this spot.
6. Belvedere Castle
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 to Belvedere Castle in Central Park: Belvedere Castle is just off of the 79th Street Transverse near the Turtle Pond in Central Park.
I hope this list helps you capture beautiful images during your visit to Central Park.
Enjoy!! Talk soon! Xx
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- SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
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- Rockefeller Center
- The High Line
- Empire State Building
- American Museum of Natural History
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- The Peninsula
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NEW YORK CITY
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