The Great Lawn

Welcome to The Great Lawn, an iconic and expansive 55-acre green space nestled in the very heart of Central Park, New York City. Located between 79th and 85th Streets, this magnificent area is a renowned scenic spot, offering a diverse range of environments, services, and features that cater to every visitor, from the active sports enthusiast to those seeking peaceful relaxation and breathtaking city views.

The Great Lawn is a true testament to urban planning and natural beauty. Its vast expanse of lush Kentucky bluegrass provides a striking contrast to the surrounding concrete jungle of Manhattan. Visitors consistently praise its beauty, noting the "beautiful open space, perfect to enjoy the scenery and colour of the blooming spring flowers." During spring, the areas bordering The Great Lawn burst with the vibrant hues of cherry blossoms, attracting crowds and adding a spectacular "burst of natural colour to the city." The entire 55-acre area, which includes the main oval lawn of approximately 12 to 14 acres, offers ample room to breathe and connect with nature. Surrounding the main lawn, visitors will discover a diverse collection of trees, making for pleasant walks and providing shade on warmer days. The presence of the serene Turtle Pond to its south, adjacent to Belvedere Castle and the Delacorte Theater, further enhances the natural charm, providing a habitat for various turtles and fish and adding to the picturesque landscape.

As a premier scenic spot, The Great Lawn provides a wide array of services and opportunities for recreation. It's a hub for active pursuits, with numerous dedicated fields for various sports. The main oval lawn area alone includes six fields for softball, and the broader 55-acre space features eight baseball fields (some within and some just north of the oval), a soccer field, and four basketball courts. This makes it an ideal destination for "playing sports with some friends" or simply enjoying a game as a spectator. For those preferring a more leisurely pace, there's "plenty of room to play sports with some friends or go for a walk around the edges while enjoying some fresh air." The expansive lawns are perfect for picnicking, sunbathing, or simply relaxing on a blanket. The park encourages activities like kite flying on breezy days, utilizing the large, open landscapes. Bike rentals are available nearby for those who wish to explore the entire park, and self-guided tours, such as the "Great Lawn Tree Walk," allow visitors to learn about the various tree species in the area. While restrooms are not directly on the Great Lawn, facilities are available within Central Park.

The Great Lawn is far more than just a large patch of grass; it's a dynamic cultural and recreational hub. It is famously known as a venue for significant concerts and performances, hosting annual events like the New York Philharmonic's Concerts in the Parks and the Global Citizen Festival. Historically, it has been the stage for legendary performances by artists such as Simon and Garfunkel, Diana Ross, and Elton John, and has even welcomed events like open-air Masses by Pope John Paul II. This vibrant atmosphere ensures there's "always something going on," as one satisfied visitor noted, also mentioning "football games, guided tours" that enrich the experience. The proximity to important scenic destinations like the Arthur Ross Pinetum, home to 17 species of pine trees, and Turtle Pond, with its diverse turtle population, adds to the allure. The King Jagiello Monument stands proudly at Turtle Pond's east end, and the Delacorte Theater, home to free Shakespeare in the Park performances, is on its west end. For those who enjoy a moment of contemplation, there are benches where one can "look at the Manhattan skyline, watching people go by, and enjoying the greenery around me." The Great Lawn's role as a photo backdrop is also noteworthy; its impressive landscape provides a natural and iconic setting for everything from casual selfies to wedding photos.

The Great Lawn is open to the public from mid-April through mid-November, providing ample opportunity to enjoy its splendor. It’s always recommended to check the Central Park Conservancy's website for the most current information on events and any specific regulations. Admission to The Great Lawn itself is free, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for all. For inquiries, you can reach Central Park general information at (212) 310-6600. When planning your visit, consider arriving early, especially on weekends or during special events, to secure a good spot. Bringing a picnic is highly encouraged to fully enjoy the ambiance. Comfortable shoes are a must, as there is much to explore both on the lawn and in the surrounding areas of Central Park. The Great Lawn truly serves as "the perfect place to take a break, breathe in some fresh air, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere in the middle of the city," making it a must-visit destination within New York City's unparalleled Central Park.

The Great Lawn

79th Street & 85th Street, New York, NY 10024, USA