Most of Central Park follows Frederick Law Olmsted’s natural landscaping philosophy, which makes the Conservatory Garden more striking. Named for a greenhouse that once stood here, the 6-acre (2.5-hectare) space is divided into three sections laid out in distinctive French, Italian and English styles. Appreciate the garden’s designation as a quiet area and get away from the bikers and joggers in the rest of the park to luxuriate in the distinctly European atmosphere.
Enter the garden off Fifth Avenue, through the magnificent 19th-century wrought iron Vanderbilt Gate that once stood at the entrance to the Vanderbilt Mansion about 50 streets south. Start in the center garden, designed in the Italian style, with a large lawn surrounded by hedges. In spring, wander under pink and white crabapple blossoms to a jet fountain and wisteria pergola. In the summer, watch wedding parties from all over the city pose against the beautiful backdrop.
Go to the French-style garden, with its elaborate flowerbeds displaying varied colors at different times of year. Appreciate the interesting sculpture work of the Three Dancing Maidens in the fountain, made by Walter Schott.
Walk down the pergola to the southern garden, an English-style celebration of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden. Stroll along mixed tree borders and appreciate seasonal flower displays. See the water lilies bloom around sculptor Bessie Potter Vonnoh’s celebration of the book, and feel a bit like the Conservatory Garden is your own little secret.
The Conservatory Garden is at the northern end of Central Park, near Mount Sinai Hospital and the Museum of the City of New York. Drive or take the subway from Grand Central Station in less than 30 minutes. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a 20-minute walk away. Metered street parking is extremely limited in the vicinity, so the subway is the easiest way to access the garden.
Officially designated a Quiet Zone, the garden is free to access. Gates open daily from early morning to dusk. Especially in summer, the garden is a popular wedding venue. Hours may vary based on events taking place here.
