banana89

We will be visiting in April and although I have been told to possibly expect rain I would like to plan for a day at Central Park. I have been reading in Fodor's about all of the things to see and do there but I would like to narrow the options down. What would you recommend as "highlights" of Central Park? Also, any recommendations for eating nearby—breakfast & lunch?

Scarlett

Lunch at the Boathouse and take a boat out, you can rent them right there, little row boats, anyone can row
Walk, that is all you need to do, just walk..the entire park is wonderful.
The zoo is nice, the Boat pond where the kids sail their remote control boats.
Belvedere Castle, Sheeps Meadow, the Carousel.
I hope it doesn't rain

Scarlett

http://www.vintageviews.org/vv-ny/_Alpha/N.html

I found this site and thought you might like to compare the Central Park and NYC that you will see to these postcards..Have a great time!

jayinla

One thing to consider is planning one day (or less) for the park and one day (or more) for some of the wonderful museums immediately adjacent to the park. Once you arrive in New York, you can check the weather forecast and juggle your allotted time appropriately.

ellenem

The Conservatory Garden is a little-visited formal garden in Central Park at Fifthe Ave and 104th St. It is right across the street from the Museum of the City of New York.

Just north of the garden is the Harlem Meer, a beautifully restored lake. You can borrow fishing poles at the nature center there (good restrooms).

Don't forget the zoo at the south end of the park and the carousel.

laurelt

I would second the Boathouse restaurant. We ate there on Easter last year and it was lovely. You need a reservation. Don't forget to go to Strawberry Fields!

Elainee

I would eat at Tavern on the Green. Very nice, excellent food, and good prices at lunch. Very fun atmosphere. Especially the Crystal Room. I think the food is better than the Boathouse. Metropolital Museum is right in Central Park. If it rains, what could be better.

tommy

My favorite areas are the Bethesda Fountain and the Mall area in front of the bandshell. Great areas for peoplewatching, especially on the weekends.

LilMsFoodie

well, I can't believe that the mention of Tavern on the Green hasn't brought a torrent of taunts. It is reviled by many but I think the conservatory (crystal) room one of the loveliest dining rooms in New York. That being said, I can not remember a single memorable meal even though I've eaten there 6 or 7 times.

If you want a fabulous lunch I'd suggest Cafe des Artistes, George Lang's fabulous restaurant just off Central Park West. This is old, fabulous New York at its best. If you were looking for a casual suggestion then I will say, go al fresco and a hot dog from one of the many stands in the park just taking in the park would be just fine too.

I second the suggestion to duck into the Metropolitan if rain should commence. The Metropolitan is really at least a full day but if just seeing one or two rooms is all you can spare, I'd still do it. If you aren't used to museums, then the Frick is a close-by alternative that is more user friendly. LMF

GoTravel

If it is open, go to the rooftop of the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a drink. Best view of Central Park.

Go into Tavern and have a drink but you may want to avoid the food. Blah and overpriced.

neuge

You're not going to London so I wouldn't "expect" rain but just have some alternate plans in case it does. The Boathouse in CP is a beautiful setting (I actually got married there)but I would limit myself to a drink at the outside bar rather than a meal which is highly overrated (actually it's not even rated that high!!). Tavern on the Green is a beautiful place but again the food is not all that great. You need to decide if you want atmosphere or a really great meal. If it's the latter pick up a Zagats or go to a NYC website and you'll be able to see alot of restaurants right by the park. Dine on the sidewalk if weather permits..Enjoy!!