Established in 1847, Bryant Park has evolved from a potter’s field to one of New York City’s most cherished public spaces. It is a lush urban oasis nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan that offers a unique blend of tranquility and vibrant city life. Spanning 9.6 acres, this charming park offers manicured grounds perfect for picnics and relaxation, an open-air Reading Room for book enthusiasts, and the iconic New York Public Library. Despite its modest size, Bryant Park is brimming with year-round activities, including winter ice skating, outdoor movies, literary events, and yoga sessions.
Background on Bryant Park
In 1776, the area now known as Bryant Park was used as a battleground against British forces. In 1823, it became a potter’s field catering to paupers and offering a final resting place for unclaimed bodies. The grounds also offered Union troops camping grounds during the Civil War. It wasn’t until 1884 that the grounds were officially renamed Bryant Park, in honor of the renowned editor and poet William Cullen Bryant.
It’s also worth noting that he was a leading advocate for the creation of the New York Central Park. So what happened to the bodies in the graves? Before any renovations, the bodies, reportedly in the thousands, were respectfully moved to Wards Island. Bryant Park now beckons with its serene greenery, cultural offerings, and a plethora of activities, promising an unforgettable urban escape for all who visit.
Where is Bryant Park, and how do you get there?
The park sits between 40th and 42nd Street and Fifth and Sixth Avenue, right behind the New York Public Library, also called the Stephen A. Schwarzman’s building. Depending on your location, you may drive, take a taxi, walk, or take the subway from 7- train to Fifth Avenue Station or B, D, D, and M trains to 42nd St. Bryant Park Station.
On foot, the park is near popular destinations like the Grand Central Terminal and Times Square. If you wish to drive there, expect to spend some time looking for parking and be ready for the charges, which due to the location, may be costly.
What to Expect When You Visit Bryant Park?
Bryant Park offers year-round activities, so it’s always bustling with people enjoying all it has to offer. This may also be because many of the attractions are free. Most noteworthy are the manicured lawns, ice skating rink, and seasonal gardens. Read a book, play chess, try your hand at ping-pong, or just relax—the choice is yours. Family attractions include a merry-go-round and the outdoor Reading Room featuring summertime stories and picture books.
Get your tickets to visit Bryant Park
Enjoy some of the popular Bryant Park events, such as the Tea Around Town tour and the Manhattan Architecture Photography tour. The latter will allow you to capture iconic sites such as the Chrysler Building, Times Square, and Grand Central. Other fun places to tour near the park are the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Empire State Building, and the stunning Edge Observation deck. Once you have had your fill of the attractions, hop into one of the many eateries for some amazing dishes.
What else can you do when you visit Bryant Park?
Summer is a fantastic time to visit because of the free under-the-stars Monday movie nights. Get in some yoga or Tai Chi with free classes on offer.
What has also become a NYC tradition is the Rink, an ice skating rink that’s free for park visitors.
In winter, check out the beloved Christmas market for souvenirs and gifts and of course, a wide range of gastronomic delights. The Christmas tree at the park ushers in the festive feeling perfectly. Now’s also the perfect time to photograph the Iconic Bryant Park Fountain. You will love the special shapes that form due to the frozen water.
Enjoy the main annual events, including the Bryant Park Film Festival, Holiday shops, Spring Market, and more.
FAQs
What makes Bryant Parks so special?
Bryant Park offers tons of free, all-year-round activities, seasonal gardens, an amazing lawn, and a rich historical background, all of which make it a special place to visit.
Where did the park get its name?
The name is a homage to renowned editor and poet William Cullen Bryant. He was also a central figure in advocating for the creation of New York Central Park.
When is Bryant Park open to the public?
Visitors can access the park all year round from 7 a.m. to midnight, depending on the month.
As a former potter’s field and battleground, few would have imagined that Bryant Park would one day transform into a place of tranquillity, culture, beauty, history, and so much more. There is no charge to enter the public park, and you can indulge in the many free activities on offer.