Is Central Park Open?
Yes, Central Park is open.
During this time of social distancing and self-quarantining, many of us feel the need to find ways to mentally and physically recharge. You may wonder if Central Park is still open during the COVID-19 pandemic and the simple answer is yes. For more details, keep reading to learn about the changes that have been implemented to keep visitors of Central Park safe so you can plan a visit armed with the latest information.
If you are sick or feel unwell and need to stay home or are unable to visit the Park right now, you can still enjoy its beauty and community from home by visiting #MyCentralPark. Everyone is encouraged to check the Central Park Conservancy page for the latest updates on Central Park.
Is Central Park open during the COVID-19 pandemic?
With guidance from the governor, the CDC, and the NYC Dept of Parks, the Central Park Conservancy has decided to keep Central Park open during the COVID-19 pandemic. The hours Central Park is open to the public haven’t changed. Central Park remains open from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily.
What are the guidelines on visiting Central Park during COVID-19?
Here are the guidelines Central Park Conservancy would like everyone to adhere to while visiting Central Park:
Maintain a 6-foot distance from other park visitors at all times
Always wear a face covering or mask even when maintaining a 6-foot separation
Do not gather in groups small or large and only come in contact with people in your own household
Team sports are not permitted: do not play games or activities that require close contact
Avoid all nonessential social contact
Which parts of Central Park are open during COVID-19?
Great Lawn and the North Meadow are open for passive solitary use only. Sheep Meadow will open at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 16th and Sunday, May 17th. The City will be monitoring crowd conditions in the Park to assist with necessary social distancing. A limited supply of masks will be available to the public at both Sheep Meadow and the Great Lawn.
Which areas of Central Park are closed during COVID-19?
All visitor centers
Playgrounds, sports and group recreation such as basketball, football, softball, and soccer
All event permits through and including June 30, 2020 are terminated. NYC Parks is not accepting or reviewing questionnaires for any film shoots or event applications for any special events until further notice. The Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment will not grant new film permits, except for film permits for the news media.
The East Meadow
The following tours and programs are also on pause through June 30, 2020:
Official Central Park Tours
Discovery Walks for Families
Discovery Kits
Chess & Checkers House Gaming
Catch-and-Release Fishing
Pitch In, Pick Up
Basketball Programs and Field Day Kits
Lawn Games
Public Group Volunteering
For more information, please visit https://www.centralparknyc.org.