Car Rental New York City and Central Park

If you’re aching to see a little green during your upcoming New York City car rental vacation, look no further than the stunning oasis that is Central Park! Located between 59th Street and 110th Street, Central Park stretches over 51 blocks, providing local New Yorkers and visiting travelers with some 843 acres of environmental escape. Located smack in the middle of the Big Apple, Central Park is more than you’re average city green-space; a part of the city since 1859, Central Park is an icon of relaxation in a city of constant stress. Famous for its historical monuments and winding paths, Central Park is a definite must-see for any one planning to visit Manhattan in their upcoming New York City car rental, so be sure to stop by!

Getting to Central Park

Getting to Central Park in your upcoming New York City car rental really shouldn’t be that difficult - just grab a map and look for the empty green patch in the center of the city! Built like a long rectangle, Central Park’s boundary’s run from 59th street (which is also known as Central Park South) to 110th Street, and from Fifth Avenue to Central Park West (a.k.a. Eight Avenue). The park is serviced by a winding 6 mile road, Central Park Drive, which circles the park, providing visitors with a scenic view of the areas natural splendor. Many cross-town roads also intersect the park, including 65th, 79th and 97th Streets, but they’re all constructed on a lower level than the park, minimizing noise and intrusion. If you’re looking for the quickest way in and out of Central Park, Prestige Car Rental recommends utilizing the 72nd or 79th Street entrances. These lanes will give you maximum exposure to the park, along with easy access to park information at Belvedere Castle.

Things to do in Central Park

Central Park is the king of all New York parks, providing visitors with a slew of exciting activities. From jogging and biking to sunbathing and soccer, Central Park is the place to be for outdoor entertainment. To get the most of your Central Park excursion, you’ll have to park your New York car rental and head out on foot, traveling across the park’s more than 58 miles of pedestrian path. Three park information centers are located throughout the park including Belvedere Castle, inside the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center and the official visitors Center inside the park’s original Dairy. Listed below are a few of the park’s more prominent attractions, so be sure to check them out during your upcoming New York car rental vacation.

The Central Park Carousel and the Park’s South End
A favorite attraction for children of all ages, the Central Park Carousel is located in the southern part of the park. Not far from the Dairy information center, the Central Park Carousel features 58 hand-carved horses and tons of bright lights! Rides cost just one dollar on the Carousel, which is open from April until November. Other exciting South end attractions also include the Central Park Zoo, and the Wollman Rink, which is used for either roller skating or ice-skating (depending on the season).
The Mall and Bethesda Fountain
The Mall is a long and formal walkway through Central Park which leads directly to the park’s focal point - Bethesda Fountain. Around the fountain you’ll find a lovely terrace and lake, along with more pathways and greenery. The Bethesda Terrace and neighboring lake are two of the most popular park locations, attracting joggers, boaters, dog walkers and sunbathers, creating an atmosphere of relaxed enjoyment. Fishing is also a popular past time at the Bethesda Terrace and lake, so be sure to pack your fishing pole into the truck of your upcoming New York City car rental!
Sheep Meadow and other Quiet Spots
If you’re looking for an area that isn’t quite so crowded, Prestige car rental suggests visiting Sheep Meadow, which is located along the southwestern side of the park. This designated quiet area is a great place to relax and catch up on some reading, so don’t forget to pack a book! Strawberry Fields, a memorial to the late John Lennon, is another wonderful respite located inside the park’s northwest corner.

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