New York City (Fodor's, 2012) - Fodor's [73]
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir.
This 106-acre body of water was built in 1862 to provide fresh water to Manhattan residents. Although it still contains 1 billion gallons, it’s no longer used for drinking water—the city’s main reservoirs are upstate. A 1.58-mi cinder path circling the lake is popular with runners year-round. Please observe local traffic rules and travel counterclockwise. Even if you’re not training for the New York City Marathon, it’s worth visiting the reservoir for a 360-degree view of surrounding high-rises, which makes for stirring sunsets. In spring and fall the hundreds of trees around the reservoir burst into color, and migrant waterfowl are plentiful. Just remember to look out for the athletes, as they have the right of way. The reservoir was officially named the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir in 1994 for the former first lady, who frequently jogged in the area and lived nearby. | Midpark from 85th to 96th Sts., Central Park.
The Mall.
Around the turn of the 20th century, fashionable ladies and gentlemen used to gather to see and be seen on this broad, formal walkway. Today the Mall looks as grand as ever. The south end of its main path, the Literary Walk, is covered by the majestic canopy of the largest collection of American elms in North America and lined by statues of authors and artists such as Robert Burns, Shakespeare, and Sir Walter Scott. East of the Mall, behind the Naumburg Bandshell, is the site of SummerStage, a free summertime concert series. | Midpark between 66th and 72nd Sts., Central Park | Subway: 6 to 68th St./Hunter College.
Naturalists’ Walk.
Starting at the West 79th Street entrance to the park, this landscaped nature walk (through which you can wend your way toward the Swedish Cottage, the Shakespeare Garden, and Belvedere Castle) has spectacular rock outcrops; a stream that attracts birdlife; a woodland area with various native trees; stepping-stone trails; and, thankfully, benches. | Off Central Park W between W. 77th and W. 81st Sts., Central Park | Subway: B, C to 81st St.
The Pond.
Swans and ducks can sometimes be spotted on the calm waters of the Pond. For an unbeatable view of the city skyline, walk along the shore to Gapstow Bridge. From left to right you can see the brown peak-roof Sherry-Netherland Hotel; the black-and-white CBS Building; the rose-color Chippendale-style top of the Sony Building; the black-glass shaft of Trump Tower; and, in front, the green gables of the Plaza Hotel. | Central Park S and 5th Ave., Central Park | Subway: N, R, W to 5th Ave.
The Ramble.
Designed to resemble upstate New York’s Adirondack Mountain region, the Ramble is a heavily wooded, 37-acre area laced with twisting, climbing paths. This is prime bird-watching territory since it’s a rest stop along a major migratory route and shelters many of the more than 270 species of birds that have been sighted in the park. The Central Park Conservancy leads walking tours here. Because the Ramble is so dense and isolated, however, it’s not a good place to wander alone or at night. | Midpark between E. 74th St. and 79th St. Transverse, Central Park | 212/360–2727 tours.
Shakespeare Garden.
Inspired by the flora mentioned in the playwright’s work, this somewhat hidden garden (between Belvedere Castle and the Swedish Cottage) is well worth a stop. Under the dedicated care of the gardener, something is almost always blooming on the terraced hillside of lush beds. The fantastic spring bulb display beginning in March and June’s peak bloom of antique roses are particularly stunning times to visit. The curving paths are furnished with handsome rustic benches, making this park-designated quiet zone a superb spot for a good read or contemplative thought. | W. Park Dr. and 79th St. Transverse, Central Park | Subway: B, C to 81st