Local Guides World
Top Nature preserves in New York, United States
Top Rated Nature preserves in New York
Top Reviewed Nature preserves in New York
The Pond at Central Park
Stonewall National Monument
Hallett Nature Sanctuary
The Ravine
Mill Rock Park
Harlem Meer
Reviews
I love this place. I love it even more when it is quiet, though it is rarely quiet because it is so beautiful, and so many people want to go there and there is construction, but that's New York. You can see turtles sunning themselves on the rocks, and fish gurgling in the water. If you are lucky you can catch live salsa dancing like I did on Sunday in the circle near the water. There is a rare public bathroom for people's use, though I didn't enter it. You can sometimes find grass to sit and enjoy a picnic, but it is crowded.
Great place to walk/run!
Pretty waterfall but no grassy areas to sit near it. Better for walking along than a picnic
Great slice of nature in the middle of the big city. Lots of unique paths that make it possible to find a quiet spot to enjoy even on a busy Sunday in July.
QR code wasn’t specific for each photo board, but the site was easy to find, and locals were very friendly. Site was well maintained and clean
I loved sightseeing NY, and more specifically Cenree Central Park by getting a free ride with the New York Daily City pass. I think it is the best way to enjoy the park, that is enormous. It allows you to separate the intense and frantic city life and stay in peace surrounded by green
Great site that will be even better when the park gets its visitor center.
I love this park! It’s a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city and lovely to see everyone strolling, relaxing, having picnics, listening to music… We even witnessed a wedding proposal! Just a beautiful way to spend the afternoon!
Harlem Meer is a man-made lake located in the northeast corner of Central Park at 110 Street. Lake has plenty of turtles who come close to shore in anticipation of food. There are many ducks, geese, and different species of fish in this lake. You can either stand at the edge of the lake or sit on the surrounding benches and enjoy the view and enjoy the birds so close to you. There is some renovation going at the moment, but after it is over, I am sure the area will be more appealing than before.
The word “Meer” is Dutch for “small sea,” and the name reflects the Park designers’ interest in unique names for the Park’s water bodies. It also connects to the area’s past, once part of the Dutch village of Harlem.
This artificial lake was created on the location of a tidal marsh that was fed by a creek that extended south to the Harlem River. The Meer is particularly popular for catch-and-release fishing.
The word “Meer” is Dutch for “small sea,” and the name reflects the Park designers’ interest in unique names for the Park’s water bodies. It also connects to the area’s past, once part of the Dutch village of Harlem.
This artificial lake was created on the location of a tidal marsh that was fed by a creek that extended south to the Harlem River. The Meer is particularly popular for catch-and-release fishing.
Toxic algae blooms mean do not touch water and do not feed wildlife, which helps fuel the algae blooms even though turtles are expecting to be fed. I think people should not eat the fish, though people were fishing. It was worth a walk past on the way to the Conservatory garden.
I found out they have been over charging a family member for an entire year, the rate she’s been paying is for an upgraded unit, and they haven’t as much as gave her a new carpet… and heard they pay ppl to give good reviews.
Simply amazing! A short and quiet walk !!
Came in April and the weather and scenery was beautiful. Could have spent many more hours. Iconic place. Highly recommend!
This area is gradually waking up from winter. Not much plants but the wooden landscaping structure gives it natural vibe, contrasting with city life.
Beautiful view of buildings (modern and old) as backdrop of the pond. The walk around the pond takes less than 30 minutes. Many benches to sit down, to enjoy the sunshine and the views.
Freezing cold and tired, had to take a stroll through the park off the bucket list. Good to have a wander around, peaceful place amongst the hustle and bustle of the city surrounds.
Fabulous monument and park. The light is always beautiful here. Such a great place to visit to honor those who fought for LGBTQIA+ rights. Usually a few queens are hanging out too which adds to the vibe. :)
It’s right off fifth avenue and 59th street. One of the popular sites in Central Park. Busy but harmonious place to enjoy the city views and nature. Nice walk around the pond, great place for pictures.
Situated in the north end of Central Park in North Woods. Difficult to find...area not currently at it's best due to redevelopment of Lasker pool and Rink
Was very excited to see this place, 53 years after Stonewall Riots. Was very moved, tears came to my eyes and I loved this place to be there and see this lovely little garden around. Thx 🙏
This is a great area within Central Park. We loved the cute benches and railings made of repurposed branches. The pathway was comfortable and soft under foot, made with compressed wood chips. The views and lookout points all offer different beautiful views and perspectives. The paths are well maintained and we did see some wildlife. (Birds, squirrels) The native landscaping and flowers were lovely. We will definitely be back!
✨ Absolutely lovely ✨
A really peaceful break from the sidewalk. I went on a weekday afternoon and only came across two couples, so you can actually get away mentally. The birds seemed happy over here.
A really peaceful break from the sidewalk. I went on a weekday afternoon and only came across two couples, so you can actually get away mentally. The birds seemed happy over here.
Small park with an impressive history. A few benches to sit and rest in the middle of a vibrant city.
Right in the heart of Central Park is this small wonderful nature trail! Heavy wooded, giving a break from the sun. Hi
One of the essential places to visit in Central Park.
You can possibly take the best photos of the entire park, especially in winter.
You will see an amazing mix of nature with skyscrapers in the background.
You can possibly take the best photos of the entire park, especially in winter.
You will see an amazing mix of nature with skyscrapers in the background.
Smaller national monument highlighting historic movement. Near the actual stonewall inn. I tried to use the app and it didn’t work, but it was a cool experience to see. You probably will on spend 10 min tops at the park, but I’m glad it’s here.
This is at the north end of the Central Park. It's so beautiful and relaxing to walk around. There was a festival there. People there are friendly. Many people do pleasure fishing. You have to put fish back to the lake.
Super cool . 🤟🏼😎
I love this place is where I go when I need to regroup
Great area to relax, there are benches along the park and the lake. Lots of turtles, ducks, schools of fish and some geese. Nice view , great place to take some pictures also.
Almost always a pleasant meandering through The Ravine
nice cove on north side for landing kayaks.
During the War of 1812, the War Department built a blockhouse with two cannons on Great Mill Rock. This fortification was part of a chain of blockhouses that was intended to defend New York Harbor and protect the passage into Long Island Sound against the British Navy
A very underrated city park that is often overshadowed by the other more well-known parks. You'll find very few tourists and no cyclists. The beaches are never crowded. The best time to visit is probably in the dead of night.
I Mill Rock on any block!
Harlem Meer has a path around it that is about three quarters of a mile. It is a beautiful place for a jog whether you are a person or a dog. If you are a dog you can be off leash before 9 am and after 9 pm. If you are a person you can visit between 6 am and 1 am.
Mill Rock Park is a unique, gross (unless seagull poop is your thing), cramped and hard to get to little pile of rocks in the East River. Ew. As I slipped back into my kayak after walking around, I couldn’t shake the feeling that flesh eating bacteria were now a part of my day.
On the flip side, the views of Manhattan, Queens and Randall’s Island are second to none. Truly stellar. So, 3 stars instead of 1.
Bring your camera, some nose plugs and a few gallons of bactine for the paddle bavk.
On the flip side, the views of Manhattan, Queens and Randall’s Island are second to none. Truly stellar. So, 3 stars instead of 1.
Bring your camera, some nose plugs and a few gallons of bactine for the paddle bavk.
Love circumnavigating this island. There's an inlet on north end to rest from river currents. Island is a protected bird sanctuary, so there's absolutely no going ashore. Beautiful when green.
Excellent for birders! Children too will love exploring this space in Central Park. Really cool area for romantics or lovers to find a semi-private shady area in the park but keep in mind & be aware that sometimes you'll run into a creep or two so be ready to stare them away
This is the most quaint national memorial/park I have ever visited. It four life-size statues: a gay couple & a lesbian couple. It was my number 2 site to visit on my trip to New York city.
Its absolutely beautiful n the park the kids love it n the pool we love it there big n so much to do
This park is well maintained and obviously gets a lot of love! It's a nice little quiet spot compared to the rest of New York City, and, unlike some other parks, is very clean. The rangers are helpful and informative, and whoever runs the park changes things up occasionally. Well worth the visit, and it's surrounded by history!
A hidden cove within Central Park, of many small winding forested trails.
Also secluded nooks, some of which, have artistically carved benches and railings.
And the the pond, actually have large golden/yellowish fish. Yes, most likely, released goldfish and koi.
However, still, magically magnificent, for the young-minded.
Not recommended for the mentally-old, worn out individuals.
Absolutely Love 😎🤙💜💙💜
Do Like 👍👍👍If you too.
Also secluded nooks, some of which, have artistically carved benches and railings.
And the the pond, actually have large golden/yellowish fish. Yes, most likely, released goldfish and koi.
However, still, magically magnificent, for the young-minded.
Not recommended for the mentally-old, worn out individuals.
Absolutely Love 😎🤙💜💙💜
Do Like 👍👍👍If you too.
One of my favorite Central Park spots. It’s hidden and quiet so you feel like you are out in the woods and not in the middle of one of the world’s busiest cities. Also, it’s one of the best locations in the park to view wildlife, and especially birds. There are a few observations decks along the trail, they are gorgeous. You can find a live video of this beautiful location on my Facebook page.
I grew up near here and it was always my hidden place to go for a little quiet. Not many knew of it but the Internet changed all that. Still a peaceful, tranquil place to relax, one of the best spots in Central Park.
One of my favorite parts of Central Park 🏞, Hallett was just reopened to the public two years ago, since the 1920s. One of the few quiet and calm refuges in the area, and the birdies and squirrels know it. Great place for bird watching.
🐿️🦗🐦🐞🐝🦎🦋🦆🐢
🐿️🦗🐦🐞🐝🦎🦋🦆🐢
Beautiful place summer or winter is nice to be there
A nice recently redone with nice paths and lots of new plants. There are quite a few places to get close to the stream and take nice pictures.