Hi,
We leave from Australia tomorrow morning for a long awaited return to NYC. One of the things that we want to do is to sit in Central Park (and perhaps other locations) watching time go by. We would enjoy having a picnic there including a nice wine.

Is there any restriction on taking a bottle of wine into Central Park for that purpose?

If there is, then about 200,000 people at the Philharmonic concerts would be in trouble.

I think there's some ancient code issue about drinking directly from a bottle or can, but if you drink from cups I think you'll be fine.

It's not legal to drink your own wine in the park. Many people do it, but it's not strictly legal.

Thanks for your help - we will take the risk but drink from cups.
Woo hoo not long to go.

Although it is illegal to drink wine in public, the cops are not going to stop you if you picnicking.

ohhh have fun! im also in Sydney - we're off in 3wks time!
hope you'll write a report when you get back!

Another great spot for a picnic is Bryant Park- plenty of tables and chairs for that and the setting surrounded by skyscrapers is a New York special.

Actually yes. It's illegal to drink alcohol in public in New York (sidewalk cafes excepted).

That said, it's true that at major events - like symphony concerts - thousands of people (out of the hundreds of thousands watching) may have a bottle of wine with their picnic.

However, drinking solely - and out in the open - might cause unwanted attention from the authorities. the liklihood is not - but if they choose to they can ticket you and get rid of the wine.