NYC 's Central Park Activities - New York City

Row boat rentals: Boats can be rented at the Loeb Memorial Boathouse (NE of the Lake) near the bicycle rentals stop and just next to the restaurant and restrooms there. The cost of renting one is $10 for the first hour and $2.50 for each additional 15 minutes. A cash deposit of $30 is required and the hours are from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. Life preservers provided of course.

Whether you're new in town or you're a native like myself, then you've got to do this one day....it's quite a release and a wonderful experience! Just remember to bring a camera. Don't worry! You'll get the hang of the rowing in little time at all. Just watch out for the other boats....It's supposed to be relaxing....not bumper car rides in Coney Island.....lol

Fishing: Believe it or not fishing is allowed in the following bodies of water: the Lake, 100th Street Pool, 59th Street Pool & the Harlem Meer which is located on the northeastern corner of the park.

...and if you don't have a fishing pole, then you could pass by The Charles A. Dana Center which is just north alongside of the Harlem Meer and get a bamboo fishing pole & bait for free. But, please remember one thing: Fishing is only allowed on a "catch and release basis" meaning, you can't keep what you catch...you'd have to throw it back in the water....also, please do not litter in the water, or leave anything behind, like a fishing hook?...not a good idea....just thought to mention that. If you'd like more information regarding this or anything else, visit the Central Park Conservancy or you could call the Dana Center at: (212) 860-1370.

Year 'round activities: Past and future regular events have included:

The annual New York Marathon ends here. Many other races throughout the year take place here.

New Year's Eve Midnight 5K run which have fireworks and post-race partying and dancing. The 1998 race drew in upwards of 8-10,000 racers from around the world.

Free concerts which have featured the likes of Diana Ross, Sarah MacLachlan, Eric Clapton, Chrissie Hynde, Stevie Nicks, Keith Richards, Simon and Garfunkel amongst many others. Even Sting was recently here in 2000.

There's also the Easter Egg Hunt. In 2001, the 52nd annual hunt was celebrated with various sorts of decorations and 20,000 Easter Eggs to be hunted down by kids.

Perhaps the special activities that go on inside the park are too many to cover. Just remember that there's almost always something going on inside of Central Park.

Bike Rentals: Heading south towards the Loeb Boathouse, you'll find this tiny shack with plenty of bicycles beside it...

Lasker Rink/Pool: Located between 108th - 109th street, below the Harlem Meer, East of the North Woods and above the Ravine "to grandma's house we go"...Sorry, couldn't help myself.....is the Lasker Rink & Pool. From November through April, skating is allowed, and only if nearby signs indicate that the ice is thick enough. During spring and summer, swimming is allowed. Here's a page to learn about the other ice skating rinks in NYC.

North Meadow Recreation Center: Located midway through the park around 98th St. with a variety of sports/recreational activities for youths and adults. There's basketball, weight training, softball, and even indoor rock climbing lessons for kids. Call them for information: (212) 348-4867

Tours of the park and other activities are also available through the Conservancy. Be sure to reach them at: (212) 360-2726