Bryant Park: What to Do in This Midtown Classic

Bryant Park is a small but important park right in the center of Manhattan, sitting next to the New York Public Library.

It's framed by major skyscrapers like the Bank of America Tower, with its instantly recognizable slanted roof.

What to Do in Bryant Park

It's a great place to take a break during your sightseeing. You can rest on the lawn or at the dozens of little tables and chairs around it (they're free, so use them without a second thought).

Another perk: the park has one of the best free Wi-Fi networks in the city, which is very handy for travelers.

Since it's surrounded by offices, this park is always full of professionals on a break or celebrating the end of the workday. It's a perfect spot to get a look at Manhattan's famous yuppies.

Beyond the office crowd, it's a meeting point for New Yorkers and tourists alike, because there are activities all year round. Here are the details:

1. Free Events in Bryant Park

During the summer there are several outdoor events on the Bryant Park lawn. You can check the schedule on their official page.

2. Ice Skating in Bryant Park

Ice skating is a New York tradition. If you have your own skates, you can do it for free at Bryant Park's Citi Pond, the only free skating rink in NYC.

If you don't have skates, you can rent them there. And if you don't skate, go watch other people do it. It's a lot of fun.

The rink is open from October through March. In our article on ice skating rinks in New York we give you more information.

3. Christmas Market

Christmas in New York is a wonderful time of year, and Bryant Park is an ideal place to soak up the atmosphere. The lighting of its Christmas tree is one of the most anticipated in the city.

The big draw of the season is the Bryant Park holiday market, with more than 125 food stalls and gift shops.

While you're there, try the hot apple cider, a traditional drink of the season.

For hours and dates, read our post on NYC Christmas markets.

4. Visit the Library

A constant presence at the park is the beautiful building of the New York Public Library.

This is one of the city's most important and beloved buildings, and you can tour it for free with audio guides in Spanish.

You'll recognize it by the pair of marble lions guarding the entrance, an iconic Manhattan image.

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Address

Between 40th and 42nd Streets, and Fifth and Sixth Avenues

How to Get There

Subway

Lines B, D, F, M. 42nd St station
Line 7. 5th Ave station

Map

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