Walking down Fifth Avenue just got a whole lot more relaxing! If you’ve ever found yourself exhausted from window shopping and dodging crowds near Central Park, we have some fantastic news.
A brand-new pedestrian plaza has officially opened, offering a much-needed oasis right in the heart of the city.
Here is everything you need to know about your new favorite spot to unwind.
Where to find this new urban oasis
The Fifth Avenue Association has successfully transformed the east side of Grand Army Plaza (between 58th and 59th Street) and the north side of West 58th Street right near the Pulitzer Fountain.
A few years ago, this area was just a painted pedestrian zone that often got crowded with pedi-cabs and unlicensed vendors. Now, the space has been completely revitalized. It features custom tables and chairs with seating for 64 people, beautifully framed by planters that will feature seasonal blooms year-round.
Pastries, coffee, and a taste of Paris
What is a relaxing break without a sweet treat? Starting today, July 3, the beloved Parisian tea room and bakery Angelina Paris is opening a dedicated concession stand right in the plaza.
They will be serving up their world-famous pastries, refreshing ice cream, and coffee every weekend throughout the summer until September 7. Ed Pincar, president of the Fifth Avenue Association, noted that this gives locals and tourists alike a real opportunity to enjoy incredible treats while taking a breather in one of the city’s most scenic areas.
A glimpse into the future of Fifth Avenue
This thoroughfare sees a massive amount of foot traffic daily, but it has historically lacked spaces for people to actually slow down. Pincar described the new plaza as a “grand slam” for the neighborhood, finally offering a place for true respite.
This beautiful new seating area is also a sneak peek into the larger “Future of Fifth” redevelopment plan. This upcoming public-private partnership aims to completely transform the Fifth Avenue corridor stretching from Bryant Park to Central Park. The goal is to prioritize pedestrians by widening sidewalks, adding more trees, and creating permanent community gathering spaces.
While the Angelina Paris pop-up is a summer exclusive, the public seating and planters will remain a year-round fixture. So, the next time you are strolling near Central Park, grab a croissant, take a seat, and enjoy Fifth Avenue in a completely new way!
