Bryant Park in New York, NY
Ask most people to name a park in New York City, and they will likely reply Central Park. It's the park we see most often in movies and television, and it's the one we read about when reporters write of New York's annual Shakespeare marathon. The park belongs to the people of New York City, and they use it for everything imaginable. But there's another, much smaller, but no less busy park a mile away. The 10-acre Bryant Park, while dwarfed in comparison to the nearly 900 acres that comprise Central Park, is a community-sized green space that hosts a variety of events year round with millions of people from around the world visiting each year. That might seem like a lot for a little park to handle, but this park has been designed to be a versatile destination that is both respite and performance space.
Inside Bryant Park
In the summer months, Bryant Park is known for its fountain, London Plane trees, and an elegant courtyard with seating that buttresses the park's perimeter. As in many other parks these days, you will find morning yoga, tai chi, and bird watching tours among its wide variety of warm weather activities, which also include mini golf, ping pong, and bingo. For the young at heart, there is Le Carrousel, a Cabaret-music playing merry-go-round influenced by French and American design. Spend the afternoon there with the kids before heading to the east side of the park where you'll come upon the famous Schwarzman Building of New York Public Library.
Until 2010, the park was home to New York's fashion week, which had thousands of attendees each year. For now, you can still hear the American Symphony Orchestra string quartet playing one day and then visit Accordions Around the World, an accordion music festival, the next. Or check out Broadway in Bryant Park, where performers will sing popular songs from theater's most beloved musicals.
Winter signals the opening of the park's outdoor ice skating rink, indoor curling, and bumper cars on ice. With the holidays, visitors can look forward to finding unique gift ideas at the park's winter village and holiday shops.
History at Bryant Park
The wonders of the park also include statues of writer and journalist William Cullen Bryant, after whom the park is named; Brazilian intellectual and slavery abolitionist Jose Bonifacio de Andrada e Silva; and Benito Juarez, former President of Mexico.
Bryant Park has all the makings of a neighborhood park, but it is so much more. It's a destination worthy of a distant traveler. And for those who love gardens, it's a marvel to see the fusion of European and American horticultural in such an urban setting. This luscious public park receives treatment usually reserved for the gardens of private homes and estates.
Tips for Your Visit to Bryant Park
Before you go, plan your visit to the park by reviewing the day's event calendar.
Where to Eat
Besides the restaurant kiosks that you can find inside the park itself, remember to save room to eat nearby Bryant Park at Junior's Restaurant & Bakery. They are just a few blocks away and well known for their cheesecake.
What Else to Do
Consider making a full day of your visit by adding a tour of the New York Public Library to your day's itinerary.
For something unusual, visit the American Kennel Club's Museum of the Dog, where you can experience canine-inspired art and activities.
Lush Garden Crush Overall Rating
Bryant Park earns a well-deserved 5 stars from us. Thanks to the historic influence of European design, this park has an elegant layout to complement the numerous varieties of flowers and shrubs is has on constant display. The active fountain drowns out the sounds of the city, making it ideal for getting away or private conversation. Add to this the plethora of activities that are offered in the park every day of the week, often at no cost, and you have an economical, family friendly destination that leaves nearly everyone satisfied.