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Park & Garden

Great Lawn

📍 Mid-park, from 79th to 85th St, Central Park, New York, NY, USA
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3.5/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Introduction

The Great Lawn is a 55-acre open green at the center of Central Park, between Belvedere Castle and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, Manhattan's quintessential picnic and open-air space. Built in the 1930s on a former reservoir site and restored in 1997 at a cost of about $18 million, it holds eight ball fields and is ringed by the Arthur Ross Pinetum and Turtle Pond. It is the park's grandest concert venue, hosting the annual New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks and the Global Citizen Festival, and likewise memorable reunion-area shows by Simon & Garfunkel (1981, about 500,000 fans), Diana Ross (1983) and Paul Simon (1991).

Highlights

1
55-acre open lawn with 8 ball fields, Arthur Ross Pinetum and Turtle Pond
At Great Lawn, 55-acre open lawn with 8 ball fields, Arthur Ross Pinetum and Turtle Pond is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.
2
Venue for the NY Philharmonic's Concerts in the Parks and the Global Citizen Festival
At Great Lawn, Venue for the NY Philharmonic's Concerts in the Parks and the Global Citizen Festival is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.
3
Legendary shows by Simon & Garfunkel, Diana Ross and others
At Great Lawn, Legendary shows by Simon & Garfunkel, Diana Ross and others is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.
4
Walking routes near Belvedere Castle and the Reservoir
At Great Lawn, Walking routes near Belvedere Castle and the Reservoir is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.

🛈 Practical Info

Best time to visitAvoid the midday heat; mornings or late afternoons are more comfortable and better for photos.
TransportArrange via local public transport, driving or a chartered transfer; check latest local transport info.
Climate & clothingPrepare for the local climate with sun protection, water and suitable footwear; some outdoor spots can be sunny.
On-site notesFollow on-site signs and rules, protect the heritage/environment, and do not climb or touch exhibits.
AccessibilitySome areas have natural or uneven ground and may be physically demanding.

💡 Tips

Ticket prices, opening hours and tours may change; confirm on official channels on site. Queried opening hours: The park is open 24 hours; the Great Lawn itself is open roughly mid-April to mid-November; admission: Free entry (ticketed for special events).
Prepare for the local climate (sun, hydration) and pace your visit accordingly.
Respect local culture, customs and any religious norms; dress and behave accordingly.
Combine with nearby sights and plan around local transport and accommodation.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Great Lawn?

Ticket prices, opening hours and tours may change; confirm on official channels on site. Queried opening hours: The park is open 24 hours; the Great Lawn itself is open roughly mid-April to mid-November; admission: Free entry (ticketed for special events). Prepare for the local climate (sun, hydration) and pace your visit accordingly.

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.