Poet's Walk, Central Park.
The Poet's Walk, found at the southern end of the Mall, contains statues of such well-known literary figures as William Shakespeare, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Burns among others. Once referred to as an "open air hall of reception" by its creators, the Mall was specially designed to accommodate the width of carriages passing through its bounds. Around the turn of the century, these carriages would drop off their wealthy inhabitants at the Mall's starting point, where they could enjoy the natural scenery and mingle with people of lesser status. When these visitors finally reached the Bethesda Terrace, their carriages would be waiting to bring them to their next destination. A walkway leading to the beautiful Bethesda Terrace, the Central Park Mall runs through the middle of the Park from 66th to 72nd street. It remains the sole formal feature of Olmsted and Vaux's naturalistic creation. To the north lies the Terrace Bridge, while the Olmsted Flower Bed is located directly south of the Mall.
The Mall is still known as a gathering place, occupied by skateboarders, rollerbladers, and street performers. While strolling along the path, one can notice a large number of American elm trees. Popular at the time of their planting, these trees are rather uncommon today, and the Central Park Mall boasts one of the largest plantations of the American elm.
The Mall is still known as a gathering place, occupied by skateboarders, rollerbladers, and street performers. While strolling along the path, one can notice a large number of American elm trees. Popular at the time of their planting, these trees are rather uncommon today, and the Central Park Mall boasts one of the largest plantations of the American elm.
Bethesda Fountain, Central Park
Bethesda Fountain rises majestically above the Terrace along the south shore of the Lake. The sculpture that tops it, Angel of the Waters, was designed by Emma Stebbins in 1873 and is one of the most recognizable icons in the entire park. It is also one of the loveliest places to share a romantic interlude. Couples can sit by the fountain and watch the row boats, and occasional gondola, glide by on the tranquil waters of the Lake. Directly across to the north, you can see the Boathouse Restaurant that stretches down to the water’s edge. It is scene that harks back to another era, the turn of the nineteenth century. You almost expect to see a parasol held by one of the ladies strolling by. It is one of the magical qualities of Central Park: it not only takes you away from the confines of a loud and busy city, but it also can transport you to another time. It is here, at Bethesda Fountain, that you can imagine your love by gaslight, waiting to accompany you to dinner at Delmonico’s. Bowlers optional.