About North Woods
North Woods offers a unique, remarkably peaceful 40-acre forest experience right in the heart of Manhattan, specifically in the north-western section of Central Park. It provides an escape from the city hustle with diverse wildlife (birds, chipmunks, squirrels), scenic elements like a pond with willows and small waterfalls, and even a historical fortification (Blockhouse from 1812). It's described as a non-strenuous, friendly walk, perfect for families seeking a slice of nature and history without leaving the city.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families seeking a peaceful nature walk and escape from the city without traveling far.Bird watching enthusiasts of all ages.Picnics amidst nature, especially by the pond.Exploring local history with the Blockhouse fortification.Families looking for a non-strenuous outdoor activity in Manhattan.
Why families love it
- A genuine 40-acre forest experience, surprisingly peaceful, located centrally in Manhattan.
- Teeming with various bird species, including uncommon ones like the great crested flycatcher, making it excellent for bird watching.
- Features a well-maintained, clear, undulating path that can be walked without encountering many people, offering solitude.
- Home to a pond with giant willows, ideal for picnics, and several small waterfalls.
- Contains historical structures like the Blockhouse, a fortification dating back to 1812.
- Offers a variety of landscapes from wooded areas to open plains, supporting diverse wildlife like chipmunks and squirrels.
Insider tips
- Always plan your visit during daylight hours; avoid the North Woods at night for safety.
- Consider bringing picnic supplies to enjoy by the pond with giant willows.
- Bring binoculars if you are interested in bird watching, as many species are present.
- Allow time for quiet observation to spot wildlife like birds, chipmunks, and squirrels.
Good to know before you go
- Visiting at night, as it is advised to be a 'no-go area' for safety.
- If you are looking for a strenuous mountain trail workout, as this location offers a peaceful walk, not intense hiking.
- If your children are too young to walk independently for a sustained period or require playgrounds for entertainment, as this is primarily a walking/nature observation experience.
- The woods are explicitly stated to be a 'no-go area at night' for safety reasons.
- Crowds
- Generally very low crowds, with reviewers noting they might not encounter a single person.
- Value
- No pricing mentioned, implying it is free to access as part of Central Park. Offers significant value as a free, expansive nature escape within an urban environment.
- Food
- Outside food and picnics are implicitly encouraged, with a pond area specifically noted as 'perfect for a little picnic'.
- Accessibility
- Paths are described as 'undulating' but 'well-maintained and clear'. No specific accommodations mentioned for wheelchairs or strollers on these paths.
- Safety
- Described as a 'safe and wonderful place to walk and explore' during daylight hours.
What parents say
"Remarkably peaceful 40-acre forest literally in the center of Manhattan and (relatively) teeming with birds. When Europeans arrived New York was predominantly forest, so this is your chance to experience an “original” slice of Manhattan 🌳 The undulating path is well-maintained and clear throughout. There is every chance you will not encounter a single person as you stroll through the forest. It goes without saying that from a streetwise perspective the woods should be considered a no-go area at night. Stay safe! If you found my review or photos helpful please leave a quick thumbs up 👍 Tha"
11 months ago
"Great for bird watching! I was able to catch a glimpse of a few species that I love to see. As usual, I had to stay in one spot and wait, but then it was great. I also saw an uncommon bird, the great crested flycatcher after another birder told me about it."
8 months ago
"A quiet and beautiful section of Central Park on the north western section. Not a lot of tourists compared to the southern section. The woods are beautiful to walk through. There is pond with giant willows perfect for a little picnic. There are a couple of small waterfalls. This really does not feel you're even in the city. No need to take a drive all the way upstate for a walk. Of course this does not offer a strenuous workout like the mountain trails upstate, but it is still peaceful and very very friendly. And it is right here in the city."
2 years ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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