We were presented with another glorious day. The weather has just been great. Most days in the high teens, Celsius. Although a cool change is forecast for the next few days. So we take advantage of the great weather and visit Central Park again.
We enter at 72nd, near Strawberry Fields and work our way north. We are in search of statues, Bow Bridge, The Ramble. We quickly locate Still Hunt – our favourite. A black panther perched atop a rocky outcrop. If you watch our videos on YouTube, you’ll often see a secret Ricky. Ricky is our black panther.
We then work our way north and locate Belvedere Castle. You get some great views from here.
Belvedere Castle is a charming and picturesque structure located in Central Park, New York City. Perched on a rocky outcrop, it offers stunning views of the surrounding park and the Manhattan skyline. Built in the mid-19th century, it was designed by architect Calvert Vaux and was initially intended as a Victorian folly—a decorative structure that serves no real purpose beyond aesthetics.
The castle features a mix of Gothic and Romanesque architectural elements, with its stone walls, arched windows, and turrets adding to its fairy-tale appearance. Inside, you’ll find a visitor centre and a viewing terrace that provides a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the park.
Belvedere Castle also serves as an observation point for the park’s landscape and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Surrounding the castle are beautifully landscaped gardens and pathways, making it an ideal location for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
We then work out through the Ramble next. A collection of winding pathways. We hear dozens of squirrels foraging in the dense leaf litter. We spot a few, but they’re quick and agile and soon disappear back into the leaves.
We arrive at Bow Bridge. Bow Bridge is one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks in Central Park. Completed in 1862, this cast-iron bridge gracefully spans the park’s The Lake and connects the areas of the Ramble and the Cherry Hill. Its elegant, arched design is characterised by ornate details and intricate scrollwork, embodying a beautiful blend of functionality and artistry that is typical of the Romanticism style prevalent during the time it was built.
One of the most striking features of Bow Bridge is its stunning views, offering picturesque backdrops of the lush greenery of Central Park and the impressive skyline of Manhattan. The bridge’s unique shape and design make it a popular spot for romantic strolls, making it a beloved venue for weddings and proposals.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Bow Bridge provides excellent vantage points for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light casts a magical glow over the backdrop. In spring, the surrounding cherry blossom trees bloom, creating a breathtaking scene that attracts countless visitors and photographers.
We then track east towards Fifth Avenue. We visit the Conservatory Water pond, the monuments to Hans Christian Anderson. The monument is a charming tribute to the famous Danish author known for his beloved fairy tales. Unveiled in 1912, the monument features a bronze statue of Andersen seated on a rock, surrounded by whimsical sculptures of characters from his stories like “The Ugly Duckling” and “The Princess and the Pea.” The statue, designed by renowned sculptor Stefan S. Schwartzman, reflects Andersen’s enchanting storytelling, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world of imagination. Nestled within a picturesque grove, the monument serves as a serene spot for reflection and appreciation of the magic of literature, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Its proximity to the Central Park Children’s District highlights the enduring influence of Andersen’s tales on generations of readers and dreamers alike.
We then walk to the Slice in Wonderland statue. The statue is a whimsical tribute to Lewis Carroll’s beloved children’s novel. Unveiled in 1959, this enchanting bronze sculpture depicts Alice sitting on a mushroom, surrounded by a group of iconic characters from the story, including the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat, and the White Rabbit. The statue was created by artist José de Creeft, and its playful design captures the essence of Wonderland, inviting visitors of all ages to engage with the characters and appreciate the fantastical world they inhabit.
Situated near the Conservatory Water, the statue is a popular spot for families, children, and literature enthusiasts who revel in the opportunity to pose for photos or simply bask in the charm of this literary landmark. The lush surroundings enhance the magical atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for a leisurely picnic or a quiet moment of reflection. As a symbol of imagination and adventure, the “Alice in Wonderland” statue in Central Park continues to inspire visitors to embrace their inner child and explore the wonders of storytelling. We sit and watch people take photos and pose in different spots. We then think about lunch. We decide on Cafe Sabarsky. We ate here in 2010. It’s a German themed cafe attached to the Neue Museum. Mardi has a boiled sausage and me a spiced egg sandwich. We sit for a while, resting our weary legs.
when we leave, we decide to catch the bus home. We are on 86th street, so 42 blocks is a bit too far as the sun gets low in the sky. We have dinner in tonight, left over Italian.
