We started the day with a walk through Central Park, heading straight for Conservatory Water.
This pond is a bit of a hidden gem, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the park’s quieter spots. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy sailing model boats. Something is soothing about watching the tiny boats glide across the water.
The sound of a saxophonist playing nearby made the moment feel even more quintessentially New York.
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Quick Stop at Alice in Wonderland
From there, we wandered over to the Alice in Wonderland statue.
This spot has been a favorite for families since the statue was installed in 1959. Kids were climbing all over the bronze figures, and it was easy to see why this is such a beloved part of the park. The statue brings Lewis Carroll’s characters to life in a way that invites interaction.
On this warm day, the area around the statue was bustling with families, many of whom were enjoying ice-cold drinks they’d picked up from nearby vendors.
Climbing Belvedere Castle
Next, we made our way to Belvedere Castle. This 1869 structure was designed as a lookout point.
The name “Belvedere” translates to “beautiful view” in Italian, and that’s exactly what you get when you climb to the top. The views of Turtle Pond and the Great Lawn were spectacular, even better than I expected.
Just a short walk from the castle is Shakespeare Garden, a spot I hadn’t explored before. The garden is filled with plants and flowers mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays, which gives it a unique charm. It felt like a tiny piece of the English countryside had been dropped into the middle of New York City.
Nearby, the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre caught our eye. Originally built as a model schoolhouse for the 1876 Centennial Exposition, it adds even more character to this corner of the park.
A Visit to The Dakota
We wrapped up our outing at the Dakota, just across from the park’s west side.
The building, completed in 1884, is a striking example of Gothic architecture. But it’s most famous as the place where John Lennon lived—and tragically died. Standing outside, it was impossible not to think about the history that this building holds.
The Dakota isn’t just another New York building; it’s a landmark filled with beautiful and tragic stories.
