Central Park - Express Walking Tour

Come on a walking tour in the beautiful work of art that is Central Park, with a focus on history, its unique and groundbreaking design, its impact on life in New York, and the work of creating a managed wilderness in a cosmopolitan city. You'll learn about landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux and their revolutionary new park design, rerouting waterways, planting trees, and creating a playground for the rich, with no sports allowed! As soon as we begin, you'll immediately notice the contrast between the concrete jungle of NYC and the bucolic green space that was the original vision of the park's designers. Join me, a native New Yorker with a love of the outdoors, for an unforgettable journey through this beautiful park. I'll teach you exciting things about the history of 19th century NYC, such as the explosive growth and northward expansion due to a massive increase in immigration. Ever wonder why it's called the Sheep Meadow? Want to see a hidden cave? I'm your man!

·We'll meet at the famous Dakota Apartments, on west 72nd street, home of Judy Garland, Lauren Bacall, Leonard Bernstein & John Lennon. -First we'll visit Strawberry Fields, the living memorial to John Lennon, created by his widow, Yoko Ono. ·Next, we'll pass by Bethesda Terrace with its beautiful Angel of the Waters fountain. ·We'll then veer west, passing the iconic Bow Bridge, site of many famous films such as The Way We Were, Spiderman 3, & Night at the Museum. ·We'll pass through the Ramble, Belvedere Castle, & the Great Lawn. ·We'll head north where you'll learn about Seneca Village, one of the first established Black communities, sadly cleared for the park's construction. -The Conservatory Garden is a hidden gem. ·Finally, we'll explore the North Woods, with its impressive waterfalls, trees & rare bird sightings. The Harlem Meer atop the park is a gorgeous local counterpoint to the more touristy southern border. ·We'll finish in Harlem, with an optional ride back to the original meeting spot.