“London is satisfied, Paris is resigned, but New York is always hopeful. Always it believes that something good is about to come off, and it must hurry to meet it.” ― Dorothy Parker

“London is satisfied, Paris is resigned, but New York is always hopeful. Always it believes that something good is about to come off, and it must hurry to meet it.” ― Dorothy Parker

As a general rule, New Yorkers agree that Central Park is the literal and figurative heart of the city. For me, it holds so many memories. Some mundane - I used to walk home through the park every day after work to decompress. Some life altering - I had my first date with Rp in the park and that's also where we got engaged. I've watched countless movies, seen amazing concerts, listened to the New York Philharmonic, & trained for a half marathon in this park. However, one of my favorite things about this green strip of the city is that you never know what you're going to get when you step foot inside. On any given day you could stumble across a parade, a race, an artist hoping to create his masterpiece, or you might be a guest at a wedding. On the flip side, you might see someone peeing on a park bench. Either way, It's always a surprise and it's always interesting.

That's why whenever we have visitors we almost always make a trip to CP. This time, my dad wanted to explore the north end of the park, which I was more than happy to do since we rarely make the trip up there (outside of running the big loop). So after a quick brunch in Williamsburg at Mogador, we hopped on the train and made our way up to 86 street on the East side. 

It really is striking how many different nooks and crannies are in this place. Also the sheer variety of plants is astounding (and I am compelled to give them all the glamour shot treatment per the gallery below). The more you explore, the more rewarding it is. Here is a sampling of what you can get on the north side: Jackie O Reservoir, Conservatory Garden, Harlem Meer, The Loch, Lasker Pool, Tennis Courts (26 courts!), The Ravine. Really great for a little afternoon of exploration. 

Photographic evidence: 
Make sure to notice: my new obsession with bees, the pigeon masquerading as a duck, a lost Christmas tree, Ron's distaste for my constant need to take his photo. 

That's it, puppies. If you've never explored Central Park at all, you need to give it some serious time. The Southern portion has more than a little to offer also (hint: RED PANDAS, COCKTAILS, AND BOATS). But we're not talking about that this time. 

For all Central Park gloriousness, visit http://www.centralparknyc.org/

Hope to see you guys on the road next month! 

xoxo,

b