On a bustling day filled with networking and discussions at the Concordia Summit in Manhattan, NYC, I found myself in need of a moment of respite. After attending an event at East 86th Street and 5th Avenue, I decided to take a walk through Central Park. My journey began at East 72nd Street, where I took a right and ventured into the park. Despite my numerous visits to New York City in the past, this was the first time I truly immersed myself in the park’s pathways, walking from the East Side to West 55th Street and 7th Avenue.
Navigating the Park with Ease
As I walked, I relied on the navigation app on my iPhone, which guided me effortlessly through the park’s winding trails. Central Park is filled with markers that help you stay on course, but there’s a certain charm to wandering and stumbling upon hidden corners, where the city’s noise seems to disappear. The park’s vastness is easy to get lost in, but the app and those trusty markers provided a sense of direction.
The Sights and Sounds Along the Way
On my walk, I encountered families picnicking, couples strolling hand in hand, friends catching up on park benches, and moms pushing their little ones in strollers. The joy on people’s faces, the relaxed energy, and the vibrant green of the grass and trees made it easy to forget that I was in one of the busiest cities in the world. The mounds of stone scattered throughout the park, serving as natural installations, added to the aesthetic charm of my walk.
One of the highlights of my walk was passing by the famous Balto statue, a tribute to the heroic sled dog who led his team across the Alaskan wilderness to deliver life-saving medicine during a diphtheria outbreak. The statue is a beloved stop for many, a reminder of courage and loyalty in the heart of this urban oasis.
The History of Central Park
It’s easy to forget that Central Park is not a naturally occurring landscape but one that was thoughtfully designed. The park was developed in the mid-19th century, designed by landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. Their vision was to create a green space where people of all classes could come together and enjoy nature, away from the industrial hustle and bustle of the city.
The park officially opened in 1858, though it wasn’t completed until years later. Since then, it has become one of the most visited urban parks in the world, offering a peaceful retreat for millions of New Yorkers and tourists alike. Central Park was, and still is, a groundbreaking public space, a model for city parks around the world.
Central Park as New York’s Forest Bath
Walking through Central Park that day, I realized that this was New York’s version of forest bathing—a Japanese concept known as “shinrin-yoku,” which emphasizes the healing power of being immersed in nature. The trees, the greenery, the gentle rustling of leaves—all these elements combined to create a feeling of tranquility and peace. With every step I took, I felt the city’s stress melt away, replaced by a deep sense of calm.
Reflecting on My Walk
I existed the park on West 55th and 7th Avenue. In total, I clocked around 6,000 steps during my walk, and I’m so grateful that I took the time to experience Central Park in this way. It was more than just a walk; it was a moment to recharge and reflect during a busy week. Central Park may be familiar to many, but for me, this walk was a first—a walk that showed me just how important it is to take a break and enjoy the beauty around us.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime New Yorker, I encourage you to explore Central Park’s many pathways. You never know what you might discover. Click here to learn more.
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!