Bethesda Terrace image

Bethesda Terrace

Tourist attraction Historical landmark Scenic spot

One of the Most Reviewed Scenic spots in New York


Address

New York, NY 10024

Website

www.centralparknyc.org

Contact

(212) 310-6600

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (10.2K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 6 AM to 1 AM
  • Wednesday: 6 AM to 1 AM
  • Thursday: 6 AM to 1 AM
  • Friday: 6 AM to 1 AM
  • Saturday: 6 AM to 1 AM
  • Sunday: 6 AM to 1 AM
  • Monday: 6 AM to 1 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: beautiful (33) fountain (32) Central (31) Park (27) Bethesda (26) Terrace (18) terrace (15) time (13) visit (13) spot (13)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Still Miracle P. 10 months ago on Google
    One of the best landmarks and photography spots in NYC. It gets overcrowded in the afternoons, so best time for photography sessions is in the mornings. The place looks magnificent in any weather. The only issue is it is poorly maintained and rarely cleaned.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 KaIndy G. 2 years ago on Google
    It was my first time visiting the terrace and Central Park. This is definitely a must when staying in the area. Many movie scenes were taken place here and was cool to feel part of it! Walking in Central Park during the autumn months is really pretty also with the leaves changing colors. It is a photographers paradise!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jake H. 6 months ago on Google • 153 reviews
    In the 15 years Ive lived in Manhattan I can honestly say that I'd never before been to this most magical part of Central Park before. Enormous fountain of Peace by an American woman sculpture artist, the Bethesda Arcade is beautiful and something more likely seen in Europe. Really a special place and so glad I finally stumbled upon it.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Da-Wang W. 2 years ago on Google
    One of my favorite places in the Central Park. The tiles under the Terrace is very beautiful, and the fountain nearby the lake is also a nice point for people to meet up and take a rest. Some artists will perform nearby this area, making it very lively and enjoyable.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Natalie with N. 2 years ago on Google
    Nothing more amazing than a sunny day in Central Park. Just so beautiful and full of life! So much fun, so much to do... street vendors, performers, carriage rides, canoeing, restaurants and Mother Nature all wrapped up into one amazing New York experience!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 yogesh b. 7 months ago on Google • 47 reviews
    Most beautiful and iconic place in USA to visit. I saw this spot in $ Kal ho na ho $ Hindi romantic-drama movie and I thought I had to see it once in my life then I visited NY now and I saw the fountain from my own eyes. It is gorgeous and very romantic. It looks beautiful 🤩 Always love for this place.🤞
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 jon m. 3 years ago on Google
    There is so much about Central Park to love. The time of year plays a big role on where to go. Bethesda Terrace is a year round favorite of mine. In a relatively small area there are many elements. Water, the fountain and the pond complementing one another. The beautiful stairs leading down to the terrace from the park street. The lower passage is ornately decorated in a passed era artwork.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tomáš R. 1 year ago on Google
    If you ask me what is my favourite place in Central Park it would be Bethesda Terrace. We really enjoyed street performers. There is still something going on nerbay. You can sit and enjoy to be part of it. It has also public toilets and running water. Come to see it after 6 p.m. and do not forget to share your photos :-)
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Derrel M. 2 years ago on Google
    I love this place. it's picture perfect for kids and family or just for relaxing and exercise. Take your kids near the lake to feed the turtles!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Raul H. 2 months ago on Google • 736 reviews New
    The most iconic place in Central Park, the great place where many movies have been filmed. I always wanted to do display. I finally did it.

  • 5/5 Iana T. 2 years ago on Google
    I have been hundreds time to central parks but never on that place. I found out Bethesda Terrance through the Internet and came over extremely early on Sunday morning and it was already super busy. Every corner of the place is unique and gorgeous and it should be perfect place for your next photo shoot or just hang out with friends
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yogi A. 1 year ago on Google
    This is inside the Central Park in NYC. The fountains and the pond next to is awesome but you must note that if you are or someone on a wheelchair, you may have trouble getting to it easily. If you see the steps shown here in picture, just ignore and don't use those to risk the person and the wheelchair. Go on from the sides and find out ramps (longer walk though) and use that. People throw coins in the fountain if you are up for that. Go in October if you can just to see then awesome colors of autumn!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cody D. 1 year ago on Google
    The lake and fountain are clearly gorgeous! Unfortunately they drain the fountain during winter, so we didn't get to see it in its full glory! There was a couple street performers around the area. This guy making bubbles was very nice, until someone said they didn't have money to give him...then he went a little wild. Behind you, on the upper level are a ton of horse carriages and bike carriages if you don't want to walk anymore.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Louis and E. 10 months ago on Google
    Bethesda Terrace is another beautiful spot in a park filled with beautiful spots. The large fountain tends to dominate the area and draws huge crowds. The views from the stairs leading to the fountain are equally great and far less crowded. Just passed the fountain is also a treed area with wonderful lake views.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 kaya s. 9 months ago on Google
    Walked for around five hours before reaching, which was completely worth it even in the 90-degree+ heat. Magical architecture with paintings on the walls and ceilings, huge beautiful unraveling staircases on either side, large multi-cascading fountain holding plants growing within. A man serenaded us all within the tunnels with beautiful cello, and a woman sang lovely separately as well.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eric H. 3 months ago on Google • 649 reviews New
    Classic landmark of Central Park. Yes, there is so much more going on here than movies, but visiting the terrace you can't help but think of the countless cinema moments filmed here.

  • 4/5 Moose “Galactic Reviewer” O. 4 months ago on Google • 274 reviews
    Great place! Awesome place! Exciting place!! Amazing place! Very happening with lots of people and views and random people singing and people proposing and people sightseeing and tourist!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ognjen M. 1 month ago on Google • 66 reviews New
    famous tourist hotspot in new york city.. Visited multiple times during summer ‘23. Photos from that time period
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kytka 7 months ago on Google
    Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, New York City, is a magnificent historical landmark that left me in awe during my visit. As I approached the terrace, the intricate architecture, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in the 19th century, immediately caught my eye. The stunning arches and sweeping staircases spoke of a bygone era's craftsmanship. Sitting at the heart of Central Park, Bethesda Terrace buzzed with activity. Street performers and musicians added to the vibrant atmosphere, and it was clear that this place was a hub for both locals and tourists. I ventured into the Bethesda Terrace Arcade and was captivated by the "Angel of the Waters" statue, a beautiful tribute to the healing properties of water. The view of the Bethesda Fountain and the Lake from the terrace was breathtaking, offering a serene contrast to the city's hustle. Bethesda Terrace isn't just a historical site; it's a living part of Central Park's charm. It's a spot where you can escape the urban rush and immerse yourself in nature. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility in the city, Bethesda Terrace is a must-visit destination that truly captures the essence of New York City.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rebeka T. 2 years ago on Google
    Central park is the perfect hideaway from the buzzling city, so easy to spend a day here just wandering around, relax and chill. Especially this terrace with the fountain and its architecture is really something. Could sit here for hours, people watching and clearing my mind.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brenda R. 1 year ago on Google
    Just Beautiful place to visit. Feels like you are in different time period. Worth the visit, and it right next to fountain. Great place to relax. There was a musician playing peaceful music when we visited.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 RAJAT J. 11 months ago on Google
    Bethesda Terrace is one of the park's most iconic and popular destinations. Stunning architectural masterpiece in the heart of Central Park, featuring a grand staircase, intricate carvings, and a breathtaking view of the lake. We also saw many photographers doing photo shoot. Nice place to visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Viviana S. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful location! It’s more pretty when there is water in the fountain but can’t complain! A must see location in Central Park.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 LilyAlice S. 1 year ago on Google
    Bethesda Terrace always fulfilled with a ton of tourists but still attractive as always. In the sunny day she will more beautiful and in the sunset time atmosphere around her is indescribable. You can go there alone and enjoyed all the things that happened around or find some partner and spend quality time there. Fall season is the best time to visit. All the leaves in red and gold make this place incredible romantic. Go there with some Jazz playlist in your phone and you can feel your soul.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Irfan S. 1 year ago on Google
    I followed the direction on google map to visit this place because it was where a scene in Home Alone 2 was filmed. Great area with visitors from so many places come together. There are really good buskers around that you can enjoy listening to. Don’t forget to tip them.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David D. 1 year ago on Google
    The Bethesda Terrace & Fountain is one of my favorite places in New York. Between the view from the terrace, the wonderful artistry of the arcade and the beautiful fountain on the shore of the lake it's one of the most amazing places, particularly in light of its history which is well worth researching. It is also a great example of how public/private partnerships can preserve those unique places in our cities. I particularly love getting there very early in the morning as the city begins to come alive and folks heading to and from their daily destinations walk through the tunnel. In addition, musicians and performers hold court there each day and it feels like a time travel back to renaissance days.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 MadeBy V. 7 months ago on Google
    Iconic Central Park spot. A must visit if you are in Central Park. This spot has been in so many movies. Free entry, lots going on in the area.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 zwawe x. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing spot with alot of History. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you ever get the chance to be at Central Park this almost a must with alot of activities going. For example, music, magic, and overall fun. 🧩🧩🧩🧩🧩💃💃💃💃💃 This place is featured in alot of movies and TV shows. One that jumps to mind is The Punisher when he ...... 🤫🤫🤫🤫🤫🎥🎥🎥🎥🎥🍿🍿🍿🍿🍿🎬🎬🎬🎬🎬 Great to also take pictures as the lighting and walls are super beautiful and fitting for a nice background of a picture. 📸📸📸📸📸🤳🤳🤳🤳🤳 Easy recommendation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐😇😇😇😇😇
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ata L. 2 years ago on Google
    We stayed an hour listening to the music played by a musician and if you just know the movies shot here you will love this place more and more... it is somehow iconic and famous. You saw it somehow before even visiting it
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kristina K. 1 year ago on Google
    A beautiful fountain near a beautiful underpass, a lake with rowboats & street performers! A great central meeting place as it's close to everything else in Central Park. Amazingly beautiful and the music under the stairs makes for a truly magical experience! Great photo spot too ;) make sure to walk under the arches n look up! check out the beautiful ceiling♥
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gehovamna M. 2 years ago on Google
    I absolutely loved this place, its so peacefully and there's a musician playing the guitar, I 100% recommend this place. The john Lennon's memorial y near by so give it a visit😁
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 DavidS 2 months ago on Google • 216 reviews New
    Beautiful place to visit in Central Park. A location of many movies. Recommend to come and enjoy the vibe.

  • 5/5 Steven K. 4 months ago on Google • 202 reviews
    It's a great place in Central Park Saw a mam propose to his Girlfriend saw a nude model doing a photo shoot there are row boats the back and a fountain in the summer it looks so beautiful a very nice place to hang read and/or take pictures

  • 5/5 KILO G. 6 months ago on Google • 16 reviews
    I took my lover on a horse carriage ride throughout Central Park. I had a surprise up my sleeves for my beautiful girlfriend. We arrived at Bethesda Terrace. I had a violinist playing (Ed Sheeran-Perfect) and a dozen roses waiting for her. I proposed to her and asked to spend forever with her. She said YES!! We followed up with a quick photoshoot and finished our ride with some champagne. ♡9/30/23◇

  • 5/5 Lola C. 5 months ago on Google
    2023 Fall Foliage in Bethesda Terrace and its surrounding area, which is located in Central Park. It’s a beautiful, popular destination where people go to sit, relax, enjoy the beauty, architectural structure and scenery of the place . It is also where the Bethesda Fountain is located.

  • 5/5 Melissa N. 10 months ago on Google
    When I was in Thailand I saw Thai romantic-drama movie "February" and I thought I had to see it once in my life then I live in NY now and I saw the fountain from my own eyes. I keep going back to this fountain every time I go to Central park. It is gorgeous and very romantic. It looks different in every season.

  • 5/5 T J. 5 months ago on Google
    Very beautiful piece of history. I didn’t spend much time in Central Park but wanted to make sure I stopped by here.

  • 5/5 Ankita B. 10 months ago on Google
    This is a very picturesque and iconic location. We've seen so many movies filmed here, so it was worth coming here. There was live music by independent performers. It is a very touristy spot but definitely worth coming here.

  • 5/5 Pascal T. 2 months ago on Google • 4 reviews New
    Visited on several occasions (afternoon and evening), and it's just an architectural marvel. One of my favorite spots in New York, just sitting by the fountain and talking to a friend in this area is the best.

  • 5/5 Jorge R. 1 year ago on Google
    Is a beautiful place to spend the entire evening, lots of people doing and enjoying the same. The fountain is pretty cool and you can rent boats in there. Is a nice walk.

  • 5/5 Dejan B. 1 year ago on Google
    Although the whole park is glorious, the Bethesda fountain and the terrace above are the most beautiful sites here. The terrace offers great views over the park, usually with street performers around. In the middle of the fountain is the Angel of Water sculpture. Beneath is the passageway Bethesda arcade seen in so many movies. Beautiful place not to be missed during your Central park visit.

  • 5/5 debjyoti d. 2 years ago on Google
    Fantastic view of the Bethesda Fountain. A must-see part of the Central Park

  • 5/5 Rima B. 2 years ago on Google
    Visited Bethesda terrace almost after a decade. It has not lost its beauty and charm. Added bonus is the amazing guitarist and soprano artist performing there. They really made me sit there and relax for some time. Wish I could listen to them a lot more. But a tourist need to move ...

  • 5/5 Nathan N. 2 years ago on Google
    What’s not to like about this place? It’s beautiful, it touristy. Angels In America made this fountain even more famous. It’s always loaded to the brim with street musicians and artists. It’s a mixed bag in that department but today there was a stellar soprano - it helps when the big music schools are back in session and in person! The really talented kids show up more often! I like the fountain and steps. It’s a good place to chill and people watch. And there’s a restroom!!! Those are like gold in nyc, where public pee stops can be tough to find and desperation kicks in.

  • 5/5 TheSlicingSword 2 years ago on Google
    Phenomenal echo for opera singing (exactly what I saw)! Cozy and beautiful.

  • 5/5 Megan W. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful terrace and it was super busy on a Sunday morning! Really fun music and everyone enjoying the place. The sun hits here perfectly, and it's beautiful seeing the pond and the geese.

  • 5/5 Trung T. 2 years ago on Google
    How many bridal shoots will you stumble on? :-) we had four! But we also had a poet typewriting bespoke poems for strangers and at least three musicians sharing their talents and somehow not intruding on each other's songs. People watch to your hearts content and enjoy the fountain and views of the boaters

  • 5/5 Gwendolyn R H. 1 year ago on Google
    I believe everyone loves Bethesda Terrace. It's a beautiful location to people watch, transportation watch, and just be. Whether you're sitting on the steps or around the water fountain, you've got a great view. There is a welcoming open area by the water where you can feed the turtles. It's a prime seating area, so it stays busy. Don't fret. There's plenty of stone bench available.

  • 5/5 Lalos S. 1 year ago on Google
    I consider it the best thing to see in the park. There are some musicians that create a nice atmosphere. If you want a photo with few people visit around 7am.

  • 5/5 swati c. 8 months ago on Google
    Well, This place is so special to me:- I had a chance to have an ice cream with my sister when I first visited to CP with her friend. Secondly, the boating in the river looks amazingly well. I again got a chance this year summer. Attaching the photos of this year trip

  • 5/5 Sarah C. 1 year ago on Google
    The terrace was breathtakingly beautiful!! There were musicians on top, below and inside, and out front of the terrace. So much music and entertainment. My favorite were the poets that typed poetry for strangers on typewriters in front of the fountain.

  • 5/5 Devin �. 1 year ago on Google
    This spot is iconic. Used in countless movies. It’s just beautiful and often you’ll find music played under the bridge with beautiful acoustics. Must visit. The fountain is right next to it as well. Nothing about this spot is slow however, in true NYC it’s constantly bustling.

  • 5/5 Ise 1 year ago on Google
    Such beautiful Architectural features, and the Bethesda Fountain is breathtaking. A photo opportunity that shouldn’t be missed. Don’t be fooled by the beauty , the fountain is much more than that. The Angel is announced in the gospel of John with mentions of healing waters. The Serenity and beauty cannot be denied. As you’re walking through Central Park it is definitely worth the stop!

  • 5/5 Gabriel G. 1 year ago on Google
    Walking through Central Park? The Bethesda Terrace is an iconic place that meets and even surpassed expectations. Loved the architecture and stone carvings. Also great since it has public bathrooms, as they can be hard to find at times.

  • 5/5 Bao N. 1 year ago on Google
    The city is doing an excellent job of preserving this historical landmark. I love jogging around the fountain and the terrace; they also organize many outdoor activities here. Truly a must-go tourist destination in NYC.

  • 5/5 Alexander L. 1 year ago on Google
    This one of those rare places to take wonderful pictures. Fall afternoons are magical. People from all over the world 🌎 gather around the fountain or by the lake to take wonderful pictures which in turn will become fabulous memories of the extraordinary view. Kids, adults quinceañeras or brides...this is the right place for you photos 📸.

  • 5/5 Alina Delfino P. 1 year ago on Google
    Bethesda Terrace in Central Park is a picturesque destination located next to the pond. Visitors can enjoy live music while taking in the stunning views, making it a great spot to relax and soak up the atmosphere. The terrace is also a popular spot for taking photos, particularly engagement and wedding shots. Many couples choose this location for its romantic ambiance and beautiful backdrop. In fact, it's common to see wedding styled shoots taking place here. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Bethesda Terrace also offers practical amenities such as public toilets and shelter from the sun or rain. This makes it a convenient and comfortable spot to enjoy the park in all types of weather.


Call (212) 310-6600 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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