A local’s guide to autumn foliage in Central Park, with 21 scenic places to walk, photograph, and slow down during the season’s brief peak-color window.

Last Updated: September 10, 2026 | Originally published: September 23, 2024

The Best Places to See Autumn Foliage in Central Park: A Local’s Guide.

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their annual shift, Central Park becomes a slow-moving painting in red, orange, and burnished gold. There is something quietly magical about walking these paths as summer lets go. Each turn seems to whisper the season, drawing locals and visitors into a shared ritual of looking.

I remember my first autumn in Central Park in 1993. Sunbeams filtered through the leaves, casting playful shadows on the ground. I had wandered from the bustling streets of Manhattan into a quieter world where the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot was matched by the laughter of children nearby. It was in that moment, among the shifting colors, that the season fully arrived for me.

From the iconic tree-lined Mall [where the American elms form a canopy of gold that seems to embrace you] to the quieter arc of Oak Bridge, each corner of the park presents its own slice of autumn wonder. These are the moments that keep drawing us back to this urban sanctuary.

Overview

This curated guide covers 21 of the best spots in Central Park for savoring the season’s autumn foliage. Each location includes a description, the best time to visit, and a tip to help you get more from the experience.

Whether you have walked the park for decades or are visiting for the first time, use this as your roadmap through Central Park’s most cinematic weeks. The colors typically reach their fullest expression from late October through early November.

Top Spots for Autumn Foliage in Central Park

1. The Mall and Literary Walk

One of Central Park’s most iconic corridors, The Mall is a grand promenade where towering American elms form a canopy of gold as autumn takes hold. Walking beneath them, you feel the season fully. Sunlight filters through the yellow leaves, casting a warm glow across the pathway and giving the scene a cinematic quality.

Photographers gather here to capture the play of light and shadow, the saturated color, and the quiet drama that defines this moment. It is a place where every step invites a pause. From mid-October to early November, when the leaves peak, The Mall becomes a slow-moving tunnel of amber and gold.

• Best Time: Mid-October to early November.
• Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to catch the light at its best, and continue the walk down to Bethesda Terrace.

2. Bethesda Terrace and Fountain

Bethesda Terrace is one of Central Park’s most celebrated landmarks, and in autumn it becomes a natural viewing platform for the changing colors surrounding The Lake. From the terrace’s elevated position, the intricate stonework [designed by Calvert Vaux with his assistant, Jacob Wrey Mould] frames the warm hues of the season. Mould created the terrace’s intricate architectural carvings.

Look out across the shore, and the trees turn to reds, oranges, and yellows that reflect on the water below. The scene is quietly hypnotic. The soft movement of the water and the occasional call of a bird overhead form the season’s soundtrack. Late October is when the foliage reaches its fullest, and golden afternoon light amplifies the colors.

Do Not Miss the Fountain

Take the stairs down to Bethesda Fountain itself. The fountain is currently turned off for a yearlong restoration that began in August 2026, but Bethesda Terrace remains open to visitors. Standing 26 feet tall, the fountain features the Angel of the Waters statue, a symbol of the healing power of water. The angel’s outstretched arms and graceful wings remain striking against the backdrop of autumn leaves.

• Best Time: Late October.

• Tips: Arrive at sunrise or sunset for soft light on the terrace, then continue toward Bow Bridge for more foliage views.

3. The Ramble

Tucked into a quieter corner of Central Park, The Ramble is a nature lover’s retreat that feels worlds away from the surrounding city. Its 36 acres of densely wooded terrain invite you to meander through winding paths, past rocky outcrops and towering trees. In autumn, The Ramble becomes a vivid display of red, orange, and yellow.

Walk here, and it is easy to forget you are in the heart of Manhattan. The rustle of leaves and the soft babble of the stream create a stillness that encourages exploration. Described by Frederick Law Olmsted as a “wild garden,” The Ramble is a testament to landscape architecture at its most immersive. Rustic bridges and hilly terrain lead you toward Azalea Pond and the Ramble Stone Arch, both worth finding. Plan for mid to late October, when the autumn colors typically peak.

• Best Time: Mid to late October
• Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for the rugged paths, and bring binoculars for birdwatching.

4. Bow Bridge

Beloved by romantics and photographers, Bow Bridge is one of Central Park’s most graceful landmarks. The elegant cast-iron bridge, with its arch shaped like an archer’s bow, spans 60 feet over The Lake, connecting Cherry Hill to The Ramble. Built in 1862, it has become a symbol of classic New York, drawing visitors from around the world.

In autumn, Bow Bridge takes on a dreamlike quality. The reds, oranges, and golds from the trees along the shore reflect on the water and mirror the canopy above. Stand on the bridge, and Manhattan’s skyline peeks through the colored leaves, providing a striking contrast between the city and nature. This is one of the most photographed spots in Central Park, and during peak foliage it is easy to see why.

A Little Bow Bridge History

Designed by Calvert Vaux, Bow Bridge is considered a masterpiece of Victorian-era design. Its low, graceful curve resembles the bow of an archer or violinist, giving the bridge both its distinctive shape and its name.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: Sunset is the best window for photography. Afterward, continue toward the Ramble for more autumn color.

5. The Pond [Southeast Corner]

Tucked just inside Central Park’s southern entrance at 59th Street and 5th Avenue, The Pond feels like a small oasis in the heart of the city. Steps from the urban rush, this quiet spot lets the autumn leaves reflect on still water while the surrounding skyscrapers frame the scene, creating a striking contrast between nature and the city.

Meandering paths, benches, and sun-drenched lawns invite you to slow down. The rocky outcrops along the shore provide views of the water and its birdlife, including egrets, herons, and several varieties of ducks. The area feels like its own small sanctuary within the park, with the U-shaped pond wrapping around the Hallett Nature Sanctuary. Rugged trails cross the sanctuary’s wooded hillside for a touch of wilderness.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: Come early in the morning for fewer crowds and clean light. Continue to Gapstow Bridge for another view of the foliage.

6. Gapstow Bridge

Gapstow Bridge is one of Central Park’s most photographed spots, offering a sweeping view of The Pond framed by autumn foliage. Its rustic stone arch blends seamlessly into the landscape, giving the bridge its quietly romantic character. Among the park’s many bridges, Gapstow stands out for its timeless charm.

In autumn, the area comes alive with oranges, reds, and yellows as the oaks, tupelo, and birch trees around the bridge take on their seasonal colors. Cross Gapstow at the narrowest point of The Pond and you are treated to a view that reads like a postcard. Excellent for photographs, better still for slowing down and looking.

Standing on Gapstow, you catch one of Central Park’s most striking contrasts. To the south, the towers of Central Park South rise dramatically above the park’s greenery. Look west, and you see the untamed landscape of the Hallett Nature Sanctuary. To the north, Wollman Rink comes into view.

The Gapstow Story

Originally built as a more intricate cast-iron structure, the bridge was redesigned in 1896 into the stone version we see today. Its simpler, more natural aesthetic feels like an extension of the surrounding landscape. It captures the essence of Central Park, where the city’s noise softens into the quiet of nature, especially in fall.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: Stand on the bridge for a classic Central Park shot of the trees reflecting in the pond with the skyline behind.

7. Oak Bridge

Tucked near The Lake and leading into The Ramble, Oak Bridge is a quieter stop with rustic charm. Its white-oak railings and decking give it an almost storybook quality, and the views become particularly striking in autumn. Framed by turning leaves, the bridge gives a fine vantage point on the park’s natural beauty.

Lesser-known than Bow Bridge, Oak Bridge holds its own as a peaceful retreat and a fine spot for birdwatchers. The original bridge was built almost entirely from white oak but deteriorated and was replaced with a simpler footbridge in the early 20th century.

The Central Park Conservancy reconstructed Oak Bridge in 2009 using steel and cast aluminum for durability, with white-oak railings and decking that preserve the character of the original design.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: Walk across Oak Bridge for a quieter view of the autumn colors over The Lake.

8. The Great Lawn

The Great Lawn is a 55-acre landscape in the heart of Central Park, framed by towering American elms and red oaks that shift color each autumn. This is a spot where time seems to slow. Roll out a picnic, toss a ball, or sit and take in the changing colors. There is something quintessentially New York about watching the leaves turn gold and red against the skyline, with the city’s distant hum blending into the rustle of trees.

Noted for its summer concerts [including the annual New York Philharmonic performance], the Great Lawn is much more than a recreation space. Six softball fields spread across its 12-acre main lawn, and quieter corners draw sunbathers and nature lovers. Nearby, the Arthur Ross Pinetum and Turtle Pond extend the scenery beyond the main lawn.

Though it feels timeless, the Great Lawn is a relatively new addition to Central Park. In the 1930s, it replaced a large reservoir that had long served as part of New York City’s water distribution system. Today, it stands as a reminder of the park’s evolution and a place where history, nature, and city life converge in autumn light.

• Best Time: Early November.
• Tips: Bring a blanket and a picnic. This is the kind of place to make an afternoon of.

9. Sheep Meadow

Sheep Meadow is one of Central Park’s most beloved green spaces, and in autumn it becomes a canvas for the season’s shifting palette. Framed by a ring of towering trees that burn into deep reds, golds, and oranges, this 15-acre stretch is where locals and visitors settle in for the season. Lounge with a book, share a picnic, or gaze up at the autumn canopy set against Manhattan’s skyline.

Originally designed to evoke the pastoral charm of the countryside, Sheep Meadow was built as a broad, quiet oasis in the heart of the park. In its early days, the meadow was true to its name. A flock of sheep grazed here, keeping the grass trimmed. The sheep were housed nearby in the Sheepfold, a structure that now serves as the famous Tavern on the Green.

Though it feels like a natural escape from the city, Sheep Meadow, like much of Central Park, was entirely built by hand. Rock had to be blasted, terrain leveled, and fresh soil layered to create the lush lawn that so many New Yorkers now enjoy. Stretch out under the autumn canopy, and it is easy to forget the meticulous planning that shaped this retreat. The result is quietly breathtaking, especially in the crisp air.

• Best Time: Late October to early November.
• Tips: Visit on a sunny afternoon for the colors against a clear blue sky, or arrive when the meadow opens at 11 AM for a quieter experience. Access is weather-dependent.

10. North Meadow

The North Meadow is one of Central Park’s most expansive and quietest areas, transforming into a tapestry of gold, red, and orange each autumn. Enclosed by a diverse array of trees, it provides a welcome setting for a leisurely walk or moments of reflection. Spanning 23 acres, the North Meadow is one of three designated sports areas in the park, alongside the Great Lawn and Heckscher Ballfields.

Originally envisioned as a grand space for games like baseball and cricket in the 19th century, the North Meadow was instead sculpted into a pastoral landscape reminiscent of the countryside. Its purpose was to provide a sense of openness and tranquility, a contrast to the bustling city just beyond the park.

The meadow’s rolling fields still provide a refuge from the surrounding city. During autumn, brilliant foliage frames the open landscape, making it an inviting place for a quiet walk or an unhurried afternoon away from the park’s busier landmarks.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: The meadow provides space to enjoy the foliage without the crowds of more central locations.

11. The Pool [West 100th Street]

Tucked into one of Central Park’s quieter corners, The Pool provides a peaceful escape framed by the reflections of maple and tupelo trees in its still waters. This spot is often overlooked by the crowds, which makes it a fine choice for a quiet picnic or an unhurried walk. In autumn, the surrounding red maples, sweetgums, and willows put on one of the park’s best foliage displays.

The Pool is more than a scenic retreat. It is part of a connected water system that weaves through Central Park’s northern landscapes. At its eastern edge, the water flows beneath a rustic bridge and tumbles down a 20-foot cascade, becoming a meandering stream known as the Loch.

The Loch continues through the woodlands of the Ravine before eventually flowing into the Harlem Meer. The surrounding water and woodlands also make this a strong spot for birdwatching and observing other wildlife.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: A quiet walk in the early morning is when The Pool feels most itself.

12. Bridge No. 28

Located on the west side at 94th Street, just north of the Reservoir, Bridge No. 28 is the best-known of three cast-iron bridges that carry pedestrians over the bridle path to the Reservoir running track. Its ornate curves and Gothic-inspired details stand out beautifully against the surrounding autumn foliage.

Designed by Calvert Vaux and constructed in the 1860s, the bridge retains substantial portions of its original cast iron despite several restorations. Its position within the landscape and fanciful ironwork have made it one of the most photographed features around the Reservoir.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: Photograph the bridge from the bridle path below to capture its curved ironwork framed by autumn leaves.

13. Conservatory Water

Famous for its model boat sailing, Conservatory Water is a picturesque pond ringed by trees that turn deep red, orange, and yellow each autumn. Benches lining the water’s edge provide a fine spot to unwind and take in the seasonal color.

This beloved destination is a small treasure for families, centered around its ornamental pond [affectionately known as the Model Boat Pond]. Children and enthusiasts launch and race miniature sailboats and yachts, with walk-up rentals operated by the Bronx-based nonprofit Rocking the Boat at the nearby Kerbs Boathouse. The boathouse also contains a small café. The surrounding area draws visitors to sit, watch the boats glide, and slow down.

Conservatory Water is also home to two iconic statues: the whimsical Alice in Wonderland and the beloved monument to Hans Christian Andersen, both drawing visitors into a world of literary magic. The tradition of model boating traces back to the elegant parks of Paris, like the Jardin du Luxembourg. Fans of E.B. White’s Stuart Little will recognize the spot from the book and film.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: This area is especially lovely in the afternoon when the sun illuminates the trees and reflects off the water.

14. The Reservoir [Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir]

The 1.58-mile loop encircling the Reservoir is a premier stretch for taking in Central Park’s autumn foliage. As the seasons shift, the cherry and maple trees lining the path turn shades of red and orange, creating a striking contrast against the city skyline. This is the largest water body in Central Park and a favorite destination for joggers seeking scenery with their miles.

Beyond running, many visitors come here for birdwatching. The still waters attract aquatic birds and turn the loop into a small haven for nature enthusiasts. The landscape springs to life in spring with blooming Yoshino and Kwanzan cherry trees, along with rhododendrons along the eastern stretch known as Rhododendron Mile.

Constructed between 1858 and 1862 to expand the city’s water-supply system, the Reservoir spans 106 acres and holds more than a billion gallons of water. It was decommissioned in 1993 and named for Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis the following year. Today, it remains one of the park’s defining landscapes, especially as the autumn colors turn.

• Best Time: Late October to early November.
• Tips: Walk the loop in the early morning or at sunset for the best views and fewer crowds.

15. The North Woods

Tucked into the northern reaches of Central Park, the North Woods provides a serene sanctuary for the season’s foliage. This 40-acre woodland holds an impressive collection of sugar maples, hickories, and oaks that turn fiery red and warm orange as autumn unfolds.

The North Woods is the largest of the park’s three woodland areas. It displays a diverse array of landscapes, including the tranquil Ravine and the historic Blockhouse [a fortification dating back to the War of 1812 and the oldest structure within the park]. This lush environment invites visitors to wander winding paths that provide a break from the city’s pace. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts come here to observe wildlife and immerse themselves in the surroundings.

Inspired by the forests of the Catskills and Adirondacks, the North Woods was designed to give New Yorkers an immersive encounter with nature closer to home. Its hills, rocky outcrops, cascades, rustic bridges, and winding paths create the impression of wilderness within the city.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: Explore the trails around The Loch and the Ravine for a quieter woodland experience away from the crowds.

16. Belvedere Castle and Turtle Pond

Standing atop Vista Rock, Belvedere Castle provides panoramic views of Central Park’s autumn foliage. By late October, the colors surrounding Turtle Pond and The Ramble come alive, framing one of the park’s most iconic landmarks. From the shores of the pond, visitors can catch the full picture of Belvedere Castle, its silhouette rising against the colored landscape.

Turtle Pond is home to a mix of turtles, including red-eared sliders, snapping turtles, painted turtles, musk turtles, and box turtles. Red-eared sliders are the most prevalent, easily recognizable by the striking red markings around their ears. They are often seen basking on the rocks of Vista Rock before sliding into the water. Many are former pets, and their presence has raised concerns as they are now considered an invasive species that disrupts the local ecosystem.

Created in 1937 during the development of the Great Lawn, Turtle Pond was originally known as Belvedere Lake. In 1987, Parks Commissioner Henry J. Stern renamed it to honor its turtle residents. The pond enhances the park’s landscape and gives a glimpse into the diverse wildlife that thrives inside Central Park.

• Best Time: Late October to early November.
• Tips: Climb to the upper terraces of Belvedere Castle for a sweeping view of Turtle Pond and a wide-angle photograph of the park’s autumn landscape.

17. The Loch

Set within the quiet North Woods, The Loch is a stream that meanders through a wooded landscape. As autumn unfolds, the trees along the water turn red, orange, and gold. Paths flank the Loch [whose name means “lake” in Scottish], with several leading directly to the water’s edge.

This is one of the most peaceful corners of Central Park. Towering trees form a natural canopy that shields you from the noise of the city, and the sound of small waterfalls adds to the calm. It is a strong spot for birdwatching or simply immersing yourself in nature within Manhattan.

Though the Ravine appears untouched, it was skillfully crafted by designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. They took inspiration from the natural contours of the land, sculpting The Loch and its surroundings from an existing valley shaped by Montayne’s Rivulet. This blend of nature and design creates one of the park’s most restorative pockets, especially during the brief peak-foliage window.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: Follow the path along The Loch to find small waterfalls and stone bridges that add to the charm of this area.

18. The Shakespeare Garden

Tucked beside Belvedere Castle, the Shakespeare Garden is a small four-acre oasis brimming with diverse flora that turns into a tapestry of color each autumn. Meandering pathways make it an excellent choice for a stroll among the season’s foliage. Set along a gently sloping hillside, the garden resembles an English cottage garden, filled with trees, shrubs, flowers, and herbs mentioned in William Shakespeare’s plays and poems. Bronze plaques with quotes from the Bard sit alongside the very plants they describe.

The garden sits near the Delacorte Theater, celebrated for its annual Shakespeare in the Park productions. However, this small space has its own history, dating back to 1912, when it was first established by Dr. Edmond Bronk Southwick, an entomologist for NYC Parks. Originally called ‘The Garden of the Heart,’ it was designed as a living classroom for public school children to learn botany and natural history.

A passionate admirer of Shakespeare, Southwick incorporated four large planting beds featuring flowers from the playwright’s works. The garden adopted its Shakespearean focus in 1916, coinciding with commemorations of the tricentennial of Shakespeare’s death. It was dedicated on April 23 of that year, becoming a lasting tribute to the literary giant.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: Visit during the golden hour to see the garden bathed in soft autumn light. Benches nearby provide a place to sit.

19. Strawberry Fields

Dedicated to the legacy of John Lennon, Strawberry Fields becomes a serene canvas of deep orange and yellow each autumn. This quiet space invites visitors to pause and reflect, making it a fine choice to sit with the season. Spanning five acres near the West 72nd Street entrance, the memorial displays the iconic Imagine mosaic, drawing fans and admirers who come to honor Lennon’s memory. The name ‘Strawberry Fields’ pays homage to the 1967 Beatles song ‘Strawberry Fields Forever,’ capturing the spirit of peace that Lennon championed.

Plans for this tribute began shortly after Lennon’s death, when the city designated the area across from the Dakota [where he lived with his wife, Yoko Ono] as Strawberry Fields. Ono envisioned a living memorial, inviting contributions of plants and stones from countries around the globe to create an international garden of peace. Her vision drew on her background as a conceptual artist and a desire to move away from traditional statuary, reflecting Lennon’s own ideals.

Working with the Central Park Conservancy and landscape architect Bruce Kelly, Ono crafted a design that harmonized the memorial with the surrounding parkland. The project revitalized a previously neglected section of Central Park and ensured the space remained a sanctuary for anyone seeking a quiet moment amid the city’s pace.

• Best Time: Mid to late October.
• Tips: Bring a blanket and sit with the leaves and the Imagine mosaic for a quiet moment.

20. The Wildflower Garden

Near the 102nd Street Cross Drive, Central Park’s native wildflower meadow provides a quieter counterpoint to the park’s formal gardens and open lawns. By autumn, late-season blooms sit against the changing trees, creating a layered display of wildflowers and foliage. canvas of color, with the surrounding trees showcasing their fall foliage against the wildflowers. The mix of reds, oranges, and yellows creates a scene that rewards a slow walk and rewards nature enthusiasts.

The meadow supports bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while adding greater biodiversity to the surrounding landscape. It is one of the park’s less obvious destinations, best appreciated from the paths without picking flowers or stepping into the planted areas.

• Best Time: Early to mid-October.
• Tips: Pair the meadow with a walk through the nearby North Meadow, The Pool, or the North Woods.

21. The Conservatory Garden

The Conservatory Garden is a small oasis in Central Park, with three distinct sections: the Italian Garden, the French Garden, and the English Garden. Each area holds a curated collection of flowers and trees that shift beautifully with the seasons, especially in autumn, when brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold create a striking backdrop.

Spanning six acres, this formal garden is a favorite retreat for locals and visitors alike, celebrated for its displays of tulips, lilacs, crabapple trees, summer perennials, and chrysanthemums. Its curated design makes it a fine choice for small weddings and quiet celebrations.

Opened in 1937, the Conservatory Garden takes its name from the glass conservatory built on the site in 1899 to showcase seasonal blooms. Before that, the area was home to a greenhouse designed by Calvert Vaux, one of the park’s co-creators, that nurtured plants for the park’s landscapes.

Each section has its own character. The French-style North Garden surrounds the Untermyer Fountain and displays Korean chrysanthemums in autumn. The Italianate Center Garden features a central lawn, fountain, and wisteria-covered pergola, while the English-style South Garden layers perennial beds around the Burnett Fountain and waterlily pool.

• Best Time: Late October.
• Tips: Visit during the week for a quieter experience, and take time for the fountains and sculptures.

READ MORE FROM BKLS

• 10 Best Picnic Spots in New York City for Autumn 2026
• Experience the Magic of New York City’s Autumn Foliage

Top Ten Questions & Answers About Autumn Foliage in Central Park

1. When is the best time to see autumn foliage in Central Park?

The best window to see autumn foliage in Central Park runs from mid-October to early November. Peak colors normally arrive in the last two weeks of October, though exact timing shifts slightly year to year based on weather conditions.

2. What types of trees produce the best autumn colors?

Several tree species in Central Park are known for their strong autumn color:

• Sugar Maples: bright yellow to orange
• Red Maples: deep red hues
• Sweetgums: a mix of yellow, orange, and red
• Oaks: rich reds and browns

3. Are there guided tours that focus on autumn foliage?

Yes. The Central Park Conservancy offers seasonal walking tours covering the park’s foliage, history, and ecology. Check its current events calendar for available dates. These tours provide insights into the park’s history, ecology, and the best spots for viewing seasonal color.

4. What areas of Central Park are less crowded during autumn?

The Mall and Bethesda Terrace draw the largest crowds. For a quieter experience, consider the North Woods, The Pool, North Meadow, or Oak Bridge.

5. What activities can we do while enjoying the autumn colors?

Beyond walking and taking photographs, visitors can picnic, bike along the park’s designated paths, rent a rowboat at the Central Park Boathouse, or sit on a bench with a book. Rowboats cost $25 per hour Monday–Thursday and $30 per hour Friday–Sunday, weather permitting.

6. Is there public transportation access to the best foliage spots?

Yes. The A, B, C, D, 1, 2, and 3 trains provide access along the park’s west side and southwest corner, while the N, R, and W serve the southeast corner. Buses run along Fifth Avenue and Central Park West.

7. What should I wear to comfortably enjoy a day in the park during autumn?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light sweater or jacket, plus a scarf or hat for cooler mornings and evenings.

8. Are there any events or festivals happening in Central Park during the autumn season?

Central Park hosts seasonal events throughout autumn through the Central Park Conservancy and its cultural partners. Check the Conservancy’s events calendar for current programming.

9. What are the best times of day for photography during the autumn?

Early morning and late afternoon [golden hour] are the strongest times for photography. Soft lighting enhances the colors of the leaves and creates striking reflections, especially near water highlights.

10. Can I bring food and drink to enjoy while viewing the foliage?

Yes. Food and nonalcoholic drinks are welcome in Central Park, and visitors can picnic on designated lawns or use benches throughout the park. Alcohol is prohibited, and all trash should be removed or placed in the appropriate bins.

Plan Your Autumn Foliage Walk in Central Park

Central Park reaches its most colorful stretch from mid-October through early November, when its woodlands, bridges, gardens, and waterfront paths shift into shades of red, orange, and gold. Choose an iconic route through Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace or head north for the quieter paths around The Pool, the Loch, and the North Woods.

Check the foliage conditions before visiting, dress in layers, and give yourself time to stop along the way. If you are planning a longer stay, our guide to visiting New York City covers more of what to know before exploring the city.