Central Park and Times Square are New York City's most iconic landmarks. Each offers a unique experience for visitors—Central Park provides a lush, green oasis amidst the bustling city, while Times Square is the epitome of urban energy and excitement. In this article, we'll explore the distance between these two landmarks and the best ways to travel between them to make the most of your visit.
Measuring the Distance: Central Park to Times Square
The straight-line distance between the southern edge of Central Park and Times Square is approximately 0.8 miles (1.3 kilometers). However, since walking in a straight line isn't possible due to city blocks and streets, the actual walking distance is closer to 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) when following the most popular routes.
Most Scenic Walking Route
For a picturesque stroll from Central Park to Times Square, consider starting at the southeast corner of the park, near the entrance to the Central Park Zoo. Walk west along Central Park South (59th Street) and enjoy the beautiful views of the park on your left and the impressive city skyline on your right. When you reach 7th Avenue, turn right and head south toward Times Square. As you approach, you'll begin to see the dazzling lights and billboards that make Times Square so famous. The walk should take around 20-25 minutes, depending on your pace.
Transportation Options: Getting from Central Park to Times Square
Subway
The New York City subway system is a fast and convenient option for traveling between Central Park and Times Square. The subway offers an authentic New York experience, allowing you to navigate the city like a local. With multiple subway lines connecting the two landmarks, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and interests.
Here are some of the subway options for traveling between Central Park and Times Square:
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The N, Q, R, or W lines: You can take the N, Q, R, or W trains from the 57th Street-Seventh Avenue station, located just a few blocks south of Central Park, and get off at the 49th Street station in Times Square. The trip takes approximately 5 minutes.
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The 1, 2, or 3 lines: Alternatively, you can take the 1, 2, or 3 trains from the 59th Street-Columbus Circle station, situated at the southwest corner of Central Park, and disembark at the Times Square-42nd Street station. This journey also takes around 5 minutes.
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The A, B, C, or D lines: Another option is to board the A, B, C, or D trains at the 59th Street-Columbus Circle station and transfer to the N, Q, R, or W lines at the 42nd Street-Port Authority Bus Terminal station. You can continue to the 49th Street station in Times Square from there. This route takes approximately 10 minutes.
Remember that subway service can be subject to delays and service changes, so checking the MTA website or a subway map for the latest information is essential. Also, remember to purchase a MetroCard at a subway station or in advance, as you'll need it to enter the subway system. The current fare for a single ride is $2.75, but you can also load your card with multiple rides or purchase a weekly or monthly pass for added convenience.
Bus
Taking the bus between Central Park and Times Square offers a more leisurely and scenic way to travel, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city while en route. With multiple bus routes available, you can choose the one that best fits your preferences and schedule.
Here are some bus options for traveling between Central Park and Times Square:
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M7 Bus: Board the M7 bus at Central Park West and West 61st Street, which is situated at the southwest corner of Central Park. The M7 bus runs southbound along Seventh Avenue, passing through Columbus Circle and the southern edge of the Theater District. Disembark at Seventh Avenue and West 42nd Street, which is located in the heart of Times Square. The trip takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
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M104 Bus: Another option is to catch the M104 bus at Central Park West and West 59th Street, also near the park's southwest corner. The M104 bus heads south on Broadway, taking you through Columbus Circle and the heart of the Theater District. Get off at Broadway and West 42nd Street to arrive in Times Square. This journey takes about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
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M20 Bus: Alternatively, you can take the M20 bus from Central Park West and West 66th Street, located on the park's west side. The M20 bus travels southbound along Eighth Avenue, passing through Columbus Circle and the western edge of the Theater District. Exit at Eighth Avenue and West 42nd Street, just a short walk from Times Square. This route takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes, subject to traffic.
When you take the bus, please be prepared for potential delays due to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Bus fares are the same as subway fares, at $2.75 per ride. You can use a MetroCard or pay with exact change in coins. The OMNY contactless fare payment system is also being rolled out across the city, allowing you to pay with a contactless card or mobile device. To ensure a smooth journey, consult an MTA bus map or use a transit app to check the bus schedule and plan your trip accordingly.
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft is another option for getting from Central Park to Times Square. The trip should take around 10 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost approximately $10-$15.
Biking
Biking between Central Park and Times Square is an enjoyable and eco-friendly option that allows you to explore New York City at your own pace. With dedicated bike lanes and the availability of bike-sharing programs, getting from Central Park to Times Square on two wheels has never been easier.
Here's a suggested route for biking between Central Park and Times Square:
- Starting at Columbus Circle, located at the southwest corner of Central Park, head south on Broadway, which features a dedicated bike lane for a portion of the route.
- As you bike along Broadway, you'll pass through the heart of the Theater District, allowing you to appreciate the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic area.
- Continue biking south until you reach West 42nd Street, where you'll find yourself in the bustling center of Times Square.
The bike ride between Central Park and Times Square is relatively short, typically taking 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your cycling speed and traffic conditions.
If you don't have a bike, you can use New York City's bike-sharing program, Citi Bike. Multiple Citi Bike stations around Central Park and Times Square make it easy to pick up and drop off bikes at your convenience. A single ride costs $3.50, while a day pass with unlimited 30-minute rides is available for $12.
When biking in New York City, it's essential to prioritize safety. Always wear a helmet, obey traffic laws, and stay vigilant, especially when navigating busy streets and intersections. Using a bike map or a navigation app with bike routes can help you plan the most direct and safest path between Central Park and Times Square.
Nearby Attractions and Landmarks
Attractions Around Central Park: Exploring Manhattan's Green Oasis
Central Park, a vast urban park in the heart of Manhattan, is home to numerous attractions that cater to nature enthusiasts, art lovers, and history buffs alike. When visiting Central Park, check out these must-see attractions that showcase the park's rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural significance.
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Bethesda Terrace and Fountain: The two-level Bethesda Terrace overlooks the picturesque Bethesda Fountain, an iconic symbol of Central Park. The Angel of the Waters statue at the fountain's center commemorates the opening of the Croton Aqueduct, which supplied New York City with fresh water.
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The Great Lawn: This 55-acre expanse of greenery serves as a popular spot for picnicking, sunbathing, and sports activities. The Great Lawn is also home to the Delacorte Theater, where free Shakespeare in the Park performances occur during summer.
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The Bow Bridge: This elegant cast-iron bridge spans Central Park Lake and offers a perfect spot for romantic strolls or photography sessions. The Bow Bridge has been featured in numerous films and television shows, adding to its iconic status.
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Central Park Zoo: This small but diverse zoo houses animals from around the world, including penguins, red pandas, and snow leopards. The Tisch Children's Zoo, located nearby, offers hands-on exhibits and encounters with smaller animals.
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The Conservatory Garden: This six-acre formal garden, situated at the park's northeastern corner, features three distinct sections: the Italian Garden, the French Garden, and the English Garden. Each area showcases stunning seasonal blooms, making it an ideal destination for garden enthusiasts.
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The Central Park Conservatory: This Victorian-era glasshouse serves as a horticultural center and offers seasonal flower shows, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.
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The Alice in Wonderland Statue: This bronze sculpture, inspired by Lewis Carroll's classic tale, depicts Alice sitting on a mushroom surrounded by other characters from the story. The statue is a favorite among children who love to climb and explore its whimsical details.
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The Central Park Mall: This quarter-mile pedestrian promenade, lined with majestic American elms, leads to the Bethesda Terrace. The Mall is famous for leisurely walks, street performers, and artists.
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Strawberry Fields: This 2.5-acre landscaped section of the park is dedicated to the memory of John Lennon, who lived nearby at the Dakota apartment building. The "Imagine" mosaic, located at the center of Strawberry Fields, pays tribute to Lennon's song and serves as a gathering place for fans and peace advocates.
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The American Museum of Natural History: Situated just across from Central Park on the Upper West Side, this world-renowned museum features exhibits on the natural world, including dinosaur fossils, a planetarium, and the famous Hayden Sphere.
These are just a few of Central Park's many attractions. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, there's always something new to discover and enjoy within the park's 843 acres.
Must-See Attractions Around Times Square: The Heart of New York City
Times Square, often called "The Crossroads of the World," is a bustling hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining in the heart of Manhattan. When visiting Times Square, take advantage of these must-see attractions that capture the energy and excitement of New York City.
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Broadway Theaters: Times Square is synonymous with Broadway, the world-famous theater district. Catch a performance of a classic or new hit show at one of the many theaters in the area, and experience the magic of live theater in the city that never sleeps.
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TKTS Discount Booth: If you want discounted Broadway tickets, visit the TKTS booth in Times Square. Operated by the Theatre Development Fund, the booth offers same-day tickets to Broadway and off-Broadway shows at a reduced price.
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Madame Tussauds New York: Get up close and personal with life-like wax figures of your favorite celebrities, historical figures, and sports stars at this famous wax museum. Pose for photos and enjoy the interactive exhibits that make for a fun and unique experience.
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National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey: Dive into an immersive underwater adventure without leaving Times Square. This interactive exhibit takes visitors on a virtual journey through the depths of the Pacific Ocean, featuring stunning visuals and cutting-edge technology.
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Ripley's Believe It or Not!: Explore the odd and unusual at this quirky museum, which showcases a collection of bizarre artifacts, interactive exhibits, and strange-but-true stories from around the world.
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The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Just a short walk from Times Square, MoMA is home to an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art featuring works by renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol.
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Top of the Rock Observation Deck: Head to the top of the Rockefeller Center for breathtaking panoramic views of New York City, including the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
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Bryant Park: This charming urban park, located just a few blocks from Times Square, offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Enjoy a stroll, grab a bite from one of the park's food kiosks, or catch a free outdoor movie or concert during the summer months.
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New York Public Library: Visit the historic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, an architectural masterpiece, and explore the vast collection of books, maps, and manuscripts. Check out the famous Rose Main Reading Room and the iconic lions, Patience, and Fortitude guarding the library's entrance.
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Shopping and Dining: Times Square has numerous flagship stores, boutiques, and souvenir shops. Indulge in some retail therapy or dine at one of the many eateries, ranging from casual fast-food joints to upscale restaurants.
These are just a few of the many attractions around Times Square, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're seeking entertainment, culture, or just a taste of the quintessential New York City atmosphere, Times Square has something for everyone.
Tips for Visiting Central Park and Times Square
- The best time to visit both landmarks is during the morning or late afternoon when crowds are thinner.
- Consider combining both visits in a single day, starting with Central Park in the morning and heading to Times Square in the late afternoon or evening.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
- Be prepared for the possibility of crowds, especially in Times Square.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the sights and memories.
- Take time to explore the lesser-known areas of Central Park, such as the Conservatory Garden and the North Woods, for a more tranquil experience.
- If you plan to see a Broadway show in Times Square, book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, as both areas can be busy and attract pickpockets.
Have fun in NYC!
The distance between Central Park and Times Square is relatively short, making it easy to visit both landmarks in a single day. Whether you walk, take public transportation, or use a taxi or rideshare service, you'll find it simple to travel between these iconic New York City attractions. By planning your route and exploring nearby attractions, you'll make the most of your visit and create lasting memories of your time in the Big Apple.
