Bryant Park is one of the most impressive parks in New York City, where visitors enjoy year-long, fun activities, such as ice skating, juggling, and other attractions. The Park is privately managed and well-maintained, perfect for a day out in nature with the family. There is an outdoor reading room where children get to enjoy picture books and read stories in the sunshine. During winter, the whole park transforms into a winter wonderland, so you can grab your ice skates and enjoy some winter adventures.
An astonishing 12 million people visit Byrant Park annually, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York. People typically spend between 2 to 3 hours on average, so plan your afternoon to make sure you have all the time to enjoy fun in the outdoors.
Bryant Park in New York - one of the highlights of 10 Best Things to Do in Winter in New York and 10 Best Parks in New York (Read all about New York here)
Bryant Park highlights
The park offers fun in any season. In the warmer months, you can simply relax in the beauty of nature, watch summer movies, see theater performances, and visit shops and vendors all over the park to pick up unique souvenirs. In the winter, the ice skating rink is open to all. You can enjoy hours of ice skating adventures in the park with the whole family.
Other activities include taking rides on Le Carrousel, a whimsical historic carousel with French-inspired design, and reading books in the outdoor reading room. You can play lots of games in the park, such as chess, ping pong, and backgammon. If you get thirsty, you can have a refreshing drink in the Southwest Porch and the Bryant Park Cafe. When you want a tasty meal, visit the Bryant Park Grill for delicious snacks and meals.
History of Bryant Park
In 1847, Reservoir Square was established in the space that would later become Bryant Park. Reservoir Square held its first exhibition in 1853. However, in 1856, due to the American Civil War, the exhibit got burned down and was used as a military drill site. Several renovations were scheduled from 1871 onward, and in 1884, ‘Reservoir Square’ was officially changed to Bryant Park.
Many attempts to renovate and bolster the park did not come to fruition in the following years. The Bryant Park Restoration Corporation took over in 1980 and set out to transform the area into a tourist attraction. By the time the Park finally opened in 1992, it became a hit among locals and visitors.
Good to know when visiting Bryant Park
Ice skating in the park is free if you have your own skates, but there's also a skate rental shop where you can rent skates for the day. The park is open every day between the hours of 7 am and 11 pm. Before visiting, check on their website to see the park’s calendar and any events that are taking place. If you are going for ice skating, to watch a movie, or to attend a music or theater event, plan on coming early to save a great spot for yourself and make the most of the experience
While at the Park, you can also visit some other attractions that are within walking distance. Some of these attractions include the New York Public Library, Broadway, and Times Square. You can also enjoy delicious meals from the nearby Gabriel Kreuther and Megan’s Bar & Kitchen.
Bryant Park in New York
Location: New York, NY 10018, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 212-768-4242
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