Central Park
59th Street to 110th Street, between Fifth Avenue and Central Park West
Central Park, arguably Manhattan's most famous park is a 843 acre “man made wonder”, as described by the New York City Office of Parks and recreation. Prominently featured in movies, television, and the media, it has become central to the identity of New York City in pop culture. It is the first public park built in the United States, hosting over 25 million people a year. For its visitors it provides recreation space for athletes, artists, families, tourists, and citizens of the area.
At sunrise it is party to the early rising bird watchers, joggers, cycling clubs, and dog walkers. The dew is fresh, the air is clean, and the clear sounds of nature and serenity seem out of place on the always bustling island. Crossing the quiet city streets into roving lawns, glacier remnants, stretching lakes, and blooming cherry blossoms, the park acts as a portal away from the concrete jungle. Yet, the cityscape is crucial to the makeup and appeal of the park. Surrounding skyscrapers trace the skyline above arching trees, leaving the early riser to ponder the grandeur of the city.