You can take a gondola ride in Central Park NYC

Central Park is probably one of the most visited places in New York – and it’s nice to visit no matter the season. Whether spring, summer, fall or winter, it is always nice to appreciate the immensity and beauty of this oasis in the middle of the city. But as with the rest of the city, there are activities in Central Park that only happen during certain seasons – such as ice skating – which happens during fall/winter – and the picnic season during the warm months. Another activity that also only happens during the spring/summer is the gondola ride in Central Park. Yes, you did not read wrong: you take a gondola tour in New York. An official gondola, a gift from the city of Venice to New York, the first gondola in history to be given as a gift.

The official season runs from April to November – weather permitting. The ride – which lasts for half-hour and runs on The Lake, the lake that sits in the southernmost part of the park – is a delight. First, because, as there is only one gondola, it becomes the main attraction of the lake. Impossible not to feel kinda “celebrity” with everyone looking at you, lol. Second, because it gives you a new perspective of the park and the city. The two gondoliers are Andres Garcia and my friend Joseph Gama, a Brazilian. Joseph is very nice: he has incredible charisma, he is super friendly and knows a lot about not only Central Park but also about the city. You can learn many curious facts! In addition, it is a romantic ride option – Joseph has seem more than 400 proposals  – and celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Ashton Kutcher have been on the gondola.

The gondola has a capacity for up to 6 people and a half-hour ride costs $50  plus tips. You can make your reservation by phone (212.517.2233) or try to contact them by the form, available here. Yes, there are also boats on the lake for rent – but do not forget they are different experiences.

Laura Peruchi

Content creator and journalist in New York City. Here, I share lifestyle, beauty, NYC tips, thoughts, and the struggles about living in the most amazing city in the world! I’m not gonna pretend to be another person: I’m a Brazilian immigrant and I think this is my soul, it is part of who I am. I hope you enjoy my content! Follow me on Instagram!