Visit this bridge's elegant entrance to the fall foliage of Manhattan's Central Park.
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Easy
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Anytime
Fee
Free
Pack
Wide-angle lens (30mm)
How to get there
N40° 46' 32.304"W73° 58' 18.0912"
This image is of the Bow Bridge nestled within Central Park. The most direct way to get there is through the Women's Gate at 72nd Street and Central Park West. Enter here and follow Terrace Drive towards the intersection of Central Park West Drive. At the bottom of the hill, make a left and walk east along Terrace Drive towards Cherry Hill. You will see the bridge just northeast of Cherry Hill.
By Subway:
- Closest Station: 72nd Street (A, B & C Trains)
- Enter the park and head southeast on W 72nd Street toward Central Park West
Stay left as you continue walking on Terrace Drive
- Turn left towards Bow Bridge
Tips
When to go
Best season
October, November
Best time
Morning, Mid-day, Late afternoon
Late October and early November provide the best opportunities to capture Bow Bridge surrounded by the colorful changing leaves during Fall.
You can capture great images as long as there’s strong light, but if you want to beat the crowds visit in the early morning. This bridge is a common stop for walking tours, so it often gets busy in the late morning and early afternoon.
Field tips
By using a wide-angle lens (30mm) you will be able to incorporate the length of the bridge and height of the fall foliage in the distance.
Try positioning yourself in the middle of the bridge so that its curved architecture can become soft leading lines.
Walk north of the bridge through the ramble that follows the edge of the lake. You will come across another bridge with a view of the Manhattan Skyline.
Walk south towards Bethesda Fountain and Literary Walk for other fantastic photo opportunities.
Current weather
New York, NY
Clear
67o
F
Sat
81o
65o
Sun
84o
67o
Mon
87o
69o
Tue
86o
72o
Wed
83o
72o
Blue Hour
09:24
67o
Clear
Sunrise
09:54
67o
Clear
Golden Hour
23:33
67o
Clear
Sunset
24:12
67o
Clear
Do nearby
Walk across the bridge (heading north) and go east until you get to The Loeb Boathouse. You can dine indoors with waterfront views of The Lake, and if weather permits, you can also sit outside and enjoy a drink.
Rent a rowboat or take a gondola ride! The tranquil setting is perfect for a romantic night in Central Park.