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Step into Turtle Pond, where the world slows down like a watercolor painting come to life—emerald waters mirror swaying trees, while slow-moving turtles glide beneath lily pads like living statues. This isn’t some hidden gem; it’s Central Park’s quietest sanctuary, perfect for unwinding, reading, or just staring at the ripples with no agenda. Come here not for photos, but to reclaim your breath from the city’s frantic rhythm.
Everything you need to know about Turtle Pond
The Plaza Hotel is a top choice located just a short walk from Turtle Pond in Central Park. This iconic luxury hotel offers exceptional service, elegant rooms, and direct access to the park’s scenic pathways. Guests can enjoy leisurely strolls along the park’s trails, visit nearby attractions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Lincoln Center, or book a guided walking tour to explore the area’s history. The pond itself is perfect for peaceful picnics or birdwatching, especially during spring and summer. For an unforgettable experience, consider a sunset paddle on the nearby lake with a private HopeGoo rental service.
The most convenient way to reach Turtle Pond is via the 6 train to 59th Street–Columbus Circle Station, followed by a 10-minute walk through Central Park. Alternatively, take MTA buses M10, M11, or M72 to the Columbus Avenue stop and walk west. For a scenic and active option, rent a bike or e-bike from a nearby station and ride along the park’s southern path—perfect for enjoying views of lawns, fountains, and the lake. Many free guided tours also depart weekly from the park’s visitor center, offering insights into the pond’s ecosystem and historical significance.
Near Turtle Pond, visitors can join Central Park nature walks led by park rangers to learn about local wildlife and ecology. Rent a paddleboat or HopeGoo to glide across the calm waters and observe turtles, ducks, and herons up close. In spring, participate in native plant identification workshops hosted by conservation groups. Photographers love the golden hour light reflecting off the pond’s surface—ideal for capturing serene shots from the surrounding benches. Families can reserve picnic packages with tables and cutlery at designated areas, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed meal surrounded by greenery and natural beauty.
Yes! The Turtle Pond area features family-friendly amenities such as a children’s playground, shaded picnic shelters, and comfortable benches ideal for parents and kids. Accessible flat pathways allow easy navigation for strollers and wheelchairs. Weekly community gardening days invite families to plant flowers or clean up debris—great for teaching environmental stewardship. Just a 15-minute walk away is the Central Park Zoo, perfect for a full-day outing. Many nearby hotels offer family packages including kid-sized toiletries and activity guides, ensuring a stress-free and enriching experience for all ages.
See what other travelers say about Turtle Pond
Staying at this hotel in the heart of Times Square was an absolute highlight of my trip to New York. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from all the action, with subway access just a short walk away. I booked a room with a view of Times Square, and it was worth every penny. Watching the dazzling lights and bustling energy from my window felt like being inside a movie. The room was clean, modern, and comfortable, and the staff were friendly and attentive. Everything about this stay exceeded my expectations. If you're visiting NYC and want to be right in the middle of the excitement without sacrificing comfort, this hotel is a must-book. No regrets—this was the perfect choice.
I always choose the Washington Jefferson Hotel at Times Square whenever I visit New York City. While the rooms are occasionally compact, they’re consistently clean, cozy, and thoughtfully designed. The staff goes above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and always ready to assist with anything you need. One of the standout reasons to stay here is the neighborhood walking tour offered by the hotel. It’s a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems, local stories, and quirky facts about NYC that you won’t find in any guidebook. Plus, the JFK AirTrain stops right across the street, making travel into and out of the city incredibly convenient. And let’s not forget the amazing Japanese restaurant just next door—it’s a must-try for every guest. With its unbeatable location, warm hospitality, and unique experiences, this hotel delivers a memorable stay every time.
The room was spotlessly clean, with excellent hygiene and no unpleasant odors—truly a comfortable and refreshing stay. The host speaks both Cantonese and Mandarin, making communication effortless and welcoming. I was especially grateful for the complimentary room upgrade during my two-night stay over Christmas; it truly made the experience more special. This place is perfect for budget-conscious travelers exploring New York City short-term. Located just steps from the Grand Street subway station, getting around the city is incredibly convenient—whether heading to Times Square, Central Park, or Brooklyn, everything is easily accessible via public transit. The location, cleanliness, and personal touch from the host really stand out. I’d definitely book here again on my next trip to NYC. Highly recommended!
My stay at Northern Lights Mansion was a mixed experience. The furniture looked like it came from a yard sale—mismatched and not cohesive in style. Extension cords and TV cables were loosely run and exposed throughout the room, which felt unsafe and unprofessional. The bathroom door wouldn’t stay shut, requiring constant adjustment during use. Unfortunately, the jetted tub I was looking forward to was out of service, which was disappointing. Breakfast was an additional charge, and while the food quality was decent, the extra cost made it feel less value for money. On the bright side, the staff were friendly and helpful, making the stay more pleasant on a personal level. Overall, the hotel has potential, but improvements in room upkeep, safety, and guest amenities would go a long way in boosting the experience.
I’ve stayed at Kama Central Park again, and it was just as fantastic as before. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming from the moment I arrived. The room was spotlessly clean with excellent hygiene standards—especially the shower area, which felt fresh and well-maintained. It’s a great base for exploring New York, with easy subway access to major attractions. Comfortable, convenient, and well-priced—this hotel delivers on every front. I’ll definitely be returning here on my next trip to NYC!
The Box House Hotel exceeded my expectations in nearly every way—except for the front desk staff, who could have been a bit more welcoming. Everything else was top-notch. The location is fantastic: just a short subway ride from downtown Manhattan, with plenty of great restaurants and shops nearby. My room was clean, spacious, and beautifully designed with modern touches. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the air felt fresh and crisp throughout the stay. I especially appreciated the well-lit bathroom with strong shower pressure and smart storage solutions. Even though the check-in experience wasn’t as warm as I’d hoped, the overall quality of the hotel, the attention to detail, and the value for money made up for it completely. I’d definitely book here again when visiting New York.
Staying at Aura Hotel Brooklyn was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is perfect—just a short walk from subway lines and surrounded by great restaurants, cafes, and local shops. I especially want to thank Shaina, Lily, and Sunny for their warm welcome and genuine hospitality—they made us feel right at home. The room was clean, modern, and well-appointed with everything we needed. Comfortable bed, quiet space, and excellent lighting made for a restful night. The staff went above and beyond to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. If you're visiting Brooklyn, this hotel is a top pick. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy, convenient, and welcoming stay.
Staying at Ravel Hotel was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to major attractions and public transit stops. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. The room was clean, modern, and well-appointed, offering a peaceful retreat after a busy day of exploring New York City. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed, from the comfort of the bed to the thoughtful touches throughout the space. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting NYC.
Staying at Pointe Plaza Hotel was a fantastic experience. The location is quiet yet perfectly positioned for easy access to Manhattan—just a short subway ride away, making it ideal for exploring the city without the hassle of long commutes. Our room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with all the essentials, though it didn’t include a fridge—still, that didn’t detract from the overall quality of the stay. What really stood out was the staff: friendly, helpful, and always willing to go the extra mile. Their warm hospitality made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. For travelers looking for a peaceful retreat with great convenience and excellent service, this hotel is an outstanding choice. I’d definitely stay here again on my next trip to New York.
Staying at Coda Williamsburg was an absolute highlight! The staff were incredibly professional and went above and beyond to accommodate my early check-in—no hassle at all. From the moment I arrived, everything felt smooth and seamless. The views of Brooklyn from the room were breathtaking, especially during sunset. It’s a perfect blend of modern comfort and vibrant city energy. I loved every minute of it, and the location makes exploring Brooklyn easy and enjoyable. This place truly delivers on style, service, and atmosphere—definitely a top pick for anyone visiting NYC.
Staying at this hotel was a highlight of my trip to New York City. The room was spacious and comfortably furnished, with a cozy bed that made for a great night's sleep. While the elevator can get busy during peak hours, it’s a minor inconvenience considering everything else. The breakfast was absolutely outstanding—better than most hotels I’ve stayed at in the U.S. I especially loved the fresh-made omelets, cooked to order with perfect texture and flavor. There were plenty of options, so everyone in my group found something they liked. Located right in the heart of Times Square, everything is within walking distance—shopping, dining, entertainment, and even the subway. The location alone makes it worth it. It’s a fantastic value, and I’d definitely book again. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Manhattan.
Absolutely loved my stay at Staypineapple, An Artful Hotel in Midtown New York! The location couldn’t be better—just a short walk from everything I wanted to see and do. There’s a great selection of restaurants nearby, and even a laundromat within walking distance, which was super convenient. The hotel itself has such a unique, artistic vibe with thoughtful touches throughout. It’s stylish, comfortable, and feels like a true home away from home. If you see a good rate, don’t hesitate—this place is worth every penny.
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