A great way to learn about Central Park is to take one of the tours offered by the folks responsible for maintaining the park, the Central Park Conservancy.

The Conservancy offers both paid and free tours. We’re going to focus on the free tours here, but the paid tours, priced at just $15, are also a good deal and you can find out all about them at the Conservancy’s website.

Free Central Park Conservancy Tours:

Southern Welcome Tour – Introductory tour to the southern portion of the park. Highlights include Grand Army Plaza, Chess & Checkers House, Wollman Rink, Gapstow Bridge, Dairy Visitor Center and Gift Shop, The Pond. No registration required

Heart of the Park Tour – This tour takes you straight through the heart of the park. Space is limited, so registration is suggested.

East Side Evening Stroll – This tour starts at 6:00 p.m. and covers the area from the southeast corner of the Park to Bethesda Terrace. No registration required.

Discovery Walks for Families – Special, kid-friendly tour for families with kids age 5 +. Space is limited and registration is required.

Please visit the tours page at the Central Park Conservatory website for details and tour dates & times.