There is nothing quite like winter in New York City. The air is frigid, but the world-renowned restaurants and designer boutiques are very warm. Rural locations may be calm and quiet, with most folks remaining indoors, but this is “the city that never sleeps.”
When you’re lucky enough to spend your winter trip in a stylish luxury hotel less than fifteen minutes from Central Park, you get to experience the best of both worlds. Enjoy the magic of the busy city streets and holiday window displays, but don’t forget to stop by Central Park to bask in the beauty of nature. Here are some of our favorite winter activities in Central Park;
1. Arthur Ross Pinetum
The Arthur Ross Pinetum offers four acres of gorgeous evergreen trees. You’ll find picnic tables and a playground, as well as a scenic view—especially if it snows! Arthur Ross had two goals when he designed and funded this part of the park: to get closer to the original park architects’ view of the space and to block the unsightly buildings of 86th Street Transverse Road.
2. Sledding
When more than six inches of snow falls in Central Park, Pilgrim Hill and Cedar Hill open for sledding. There are ideal spots for beginners as well as those who might be a little more adventurous. Places near the park to buy sleds include Target and ACE Hardware.
Alternatively, just ask our concierge for assistance in obtaining one.
3. Columbus Circle Holiday Market
This enchanting, European-inspired pop-up market offers the opportunity to do a little holiday shopping and enjoy the festive season. Be sure to stop by the shops for some excellent food and one-of-a-kind gifts.
4. Swedish Cottage
Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted spotted this picturesque cottage in Philadelphia in 1876 and brought it to Central Park in 1877. In 1947, it became home to a marionette company. Keep an eye out for performance dates, or just take a walk to the cottage for a serene, fairytale experience.
6. Cross Country Skiing/Snow Shoeing
The Central Park Conservancy recommends visiting Sheep Meadow and The Great Lawn for the best snowshoeing and cross-country skiing experiences. Bridle Path also offers an excellent option for snow travel and a gorgeous view of the Jaqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. It’s a 2.5-mile loop (although you can choose a shorter loop) that is never plowed due to the soft dirt surface.
Just be sure to watch out for horses that may be on a winter ride!
Ice skating is always an excellent choice when you’re visiting the park. However, we wanted to take a moment to highlight some of the winter activities that are more “off the beaten track.”
If you’d like more information on any of these winter activities in Central Park, our 24-hour concierge is always happy to make recommendations and help you get there. Not every hotel offers the service, luxury, and comfort we pride ourselves on.
Be sure to spend your winter trip to NYC in style by booking your room at The Marmara Park Avenue.