Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

Reservoir · Central Park

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

Reservoir · Central Park

1

New York, NY 10128

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Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir by null

Highlights

Scenic reservoir path for running, walking, and city skyline views  

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New York, NY 10128 Get directions

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New York, NY 10128 Get directions

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parking bike
crowd family friendly

Last updated

Aug 16, 2025

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@afar

"Run/Walk/Bike in Central Park Central Park is a perfect urban oasis that in many ways represents the heart of New York City. Convenient location, lush natural beauty, and the diversity of people and activities is why it is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. And if you are a runner, there is almost nowhere more exhilarating and fun to run than Central Park. Built in 1862 as a backup water supply for NYC, the reservoir was decommissioned in 1993. Today it is encircled by a 1.58-mile cinder pedestrian pathway - a favorite of runners, and also walkers, tourists and photography buffs. Featured in many movies and television shows, the reservoir offers perfect views of the Upper West Side, Upper East Side and Central Park South skylines. If you're more ambitious try my favorite route - the 6-mile, paved Central Park "loop" that takes you through the entire park, passing by Tavern on the Green, Sheep Meadow field, the Time Warner towers, Central Park Carousel, Central Park Boathouse and the Metropolitan and Guggenheim Museums. You can also experience the last four miles of the NYC Marathon by entering the loop at East 90th Street and running clockwise until you cross the "finish line" at Tavern on the Green. If six miles is too long, you can create shorter paths by cutting across various transverses in the park. There are water fountains and small food vendors in the park, too. Tip: try to run when the loop is closed to traffic (weekends and weekdays outside of rush hours)."

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View Postcard for Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

Alex Hostetler

Google
Very scenic walk. Ground is flat. There are tons of runners so if you’re walking make sure to stand to the right. It’s a very big loop but it’s nice if you’re up in the area.

Nathan Nhek

Google
Amazing and beautiful view of the reservoir and the skyline! Go to the northern most part of the reservoir and look south. Sunset here is a 10/10. It's tranquil here too. It lowkey might be one of my favorite scenic spots in the city! Also grab a picnic blanket and lay out!

meli torrado

Google
Beautiful! Next to it there’s a cherry blossom tree path, like from fairy tales! 🌸💕

Nami N

Google
Water reservoir in Central Park between 96st and 8th st Westside. It's easy to get to Central Park from either street. When you go to this reservoir, the rows of cherry blossom trees are very beautiful. It's perfect for walking around and taking in the views. Don't miss the cherry blossoms, especially at this time of year.

Good Capitalist

Google
Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? This is a good place to check out, excellent views along the trail of northern and southern parts of Manhattan.

Kristen L. Matulis

Google
The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is such a lovely spot located within Central Park! It’s particularly stunning in the autumn months. The walking space surrounding the reservoir is great and offers beautiful views of the water + some of the surrounding Manhattan architecture (from the Upper East & Upper West Side)!

Justin Hayworth

Google
Beautiful path around the man made lake. Picturesque views of the Skyline. Great for running or a slow walk. One of my favorite areas in Central Park! Always lovey and best at sunset. One note: it is located north of 86th Street, so if you are coming from midtown it’s a bit of trek north. But I would still recommend if you have time.

Oleg O.

Google
Nice place for a walk or a jog. Also great for landscape and cityscape photography. Looks good at all seasons of the year.
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Taylee M.

Yelp
This is my favorite walk to cross the park from the UWS to the UES. You enter at 86th on either side of the park and can walk the south or north loop. I prefer the north loop because you get views of midtown across the water. Stunning in all seasons!
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Michael B.

Yelp
A FABULOUS SIGHT ! We walked around Central Park back in 2021 but somehow missed seeing Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. NOT THIS TIME ! My wife and I were enjoying a 2 week vacation in New York, NY starting on Wed, Sept 4th 2024. We jumped on the subway from near our brownstone apartment in Upper Manhattan on Tuesday, Sept 10th to Columbus Circle in Downtown. We walked across to Central Park and rented a couple of bicycles. WHATTA SIGHT ! And then we rode completely around Central Park stopping to admire the beautiful Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. SO GLAD WE DID IT !
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Johnny N.

Yelp
One of my simple pleasures in this life is to wake up fresh as a daisy on a blessed Sunday, lace up my size 12 all black Bondi 7 Hokas and make the on foot excursion from Alphabet City to Central Park, culminating at the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. Oh yeah, you read that right. Size 12. hehe :) Also a core requirement for the journey is getting a soft pretzel from a pretzel stand on the entrance to Central park on 8th ave and 59th street. I get salt on the pretzel but scrape it off because I just want a *hint* of salt, not a full salty boi you know? I know people will argue these soft pretzels kinda taste like cardboard, but they're just so good to me. A bit crunchy on the outside with a soft doughy interior. F, now I want one. Fueled by a soft pretzel w/ a hint of salt, I snake through the park and end up at the Jackie O Reservoir. There is nothing quite as humbling as getting to the north end at 96th street, turning around and just taking in the New York Skyline reflected off the rippling water. One of my favorite views in the city. Maybe it was growing up by the ocean, but something about being near a big body of water really allows me to be at ease with myself. Also, walking around this 1.58 mile gravel track is a great way to get your steps in. As a result of this excursion I hit 39,629 steps last Sunday. The fact I didn't hit 40k has been keeping me up these past few nights. Less than 400 steps away from greatness and I couldn't get it done? It's events like these that really make me question who I am as a man. I need my get-back..... IG @jnov_ Tiktok @jnov__
google avatar

Gilbert G.

Yelp
This is a stunning place to enjoy a stroll, jog, or dog walk on the Upper East Side! My wife and I came here during a visit to NYC for our miniature poodle who needed a little patch of green grass to take care of her business. We entered the park from 85th St. and Fifth Avenue - but there's another large passageway from 90th St. with a famous statue. Views of the skyline are lovely. I like the design of the reservoir with separate paths for joggers (who go one-way in a counter-clockwise direction), and walkers on a wider bridle path. After exploring the reservoir (1.5 miles for a full loop), you can also walk behind the Metropolitan Museum of Art for another splash of green grass, statue of Alexander Hamilton, and a baseball field in the distance. Central Park is a lovely respite from the concrete canyons of Manhattan! If you're visiting from out of town, be sure to reserve some time to visit the park and stroll along part of the reservoir circular route.
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Nami N.

Yelp
Water reservoir in Central Park between 96st and 8th st Westside. It's easy to get to Central Park from either street. When you go to this reservoir, the rows of cherry blossom trees are very beautiful. It's perfect for walking around and taking in the views. Don't miss the cherry blossoms, especially at this time of year.
google avatar

Denise W.

Yelp
Thinking of going for a walk on a nice warm day or on an evening just after dinner? Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is an option. The reservoir is huge and when walking along the reservoir outside there are many cherry blossom trees along the way. It is beautiful during the spring time to admire the cherry blossoms. Definitely a great place for a stroll. The reservoir is located inside Central Park. It does take 45 mins to an hour to go around the entire reservoir.
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Ed U.

Yelp
It's only a mile and a half around, but it feels bigger since the reservoir holds one billion gallons of water. There's also the unbeatable backdrop of the Upper West and East Side skylines against the bucolic border, all of it reflected perfectly on the crystalline surface of the water. Dominating the upper half of Central Park, it's a jogger's paradise, and the perimeter path has enough space to accommodate the rest of us. Well, at least we who walk respect the space and wear masks, and the ornate black wrought-iron fence is definitely a lot more visually pleasing than the high chain-link fence that used to be here. It's no wonder this is a popular movie setting. Remember Dustin Hoffman training for the NYC marathon in "Marathon Man" and then making Laurence Olivier swallow those diamonds. Or Charlotte inappropriately walking her dogs in the first "Sex and the City" movie. Woody used the reservoir for a key scene in "Hannah and Her Sisters", but we don't talk about him anymore. Jackie lived on Fifth Avenue overlooking the water, and given all her efforts to restore the grandeur of the city, it should come as no surprise that her name has been memorialized with this idyllic body of water. Besides, she used to jog here. RELATED - Exploring NYC? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2ZvQA2F
google avatar

Alexis B.

Yelp
Absolutely a gorgeous and iconic spot in Central Park! Those views!!! On a gorgeous day, absolutely get yourself over to the reservoir in some comfortable shoes, walk that loop around the reservoir, and take 100 pictures of the views. It's a really incredible spot in NYC. Definitely make your way over on a day when the weather is great - it'll make the time spent there really special. It was definitely one of the highlights of our long weekend in NYC in May.
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Jessica P.

Yelp
This will always be my all-time favorite to walk around at Central Park. I'm not from NY but when I visit, I always make sure to go visit Central Park. It's my favorite place to visit to just walk around and admire the nature around. I especially love walking around the reservoir especially when there aren't a lot of people. Every time I visited NY, it would usually be on a busy day so it can get pretty crowded. But I came here on a Saturday morning/afternoon with some cloudy weather and temperature at around 40s-50s. I will say it is definitely nice to just walk around there even with no sun and it wasn't so crowded either to get some nice fresh air. I definitely will miss coming to this reservoir and Central Park when I leave New York.
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Marianne W.

Yelp
Today is the first day of Spring 2021. It's a beautiful day for a run or walk around the reservoir. It's been maintained as good as usual and a lot of people are out to enjoy this beautiful location. The 360 degrees views of the city are spectacular. I'm so glad I have this place for a retreat from the street traffic. I've spent a lot of time here over the years. I didn't realize it's been five years since my last review. I've noticed things I haven't seen in the past. I'm so glad I revisited! Come and visit with me!
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Kristen T.

Yelp
When I redo my trip to NYC, I will definitely be spending way more time in and around Central Park. It was drizzling and only 34 degrees out, so we bundled up, hit a coffee cart to grab some hot drinks and a black and white, and trekked the mostly desolate Central Park Reservoir loop. Easily one of the highlights of our entire trip. Central Park is gorgeous. Highly recommend walking over to Patsy's for wine and pasta after a long, sightseeing stroll.
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Sarah M.

Yelp
The reservoir is just far enough uptown that I do not always get up here in the Park, but it is a fabulous place for a walk or a run! The distance of about 1.6 miles is just about perfect, and you have great views the whole time. Pro tip: If lots of exercise is not your thing, you should still come by at sunset at some point! The reservoir is a gorgeous place in the city to see the sunset. You can look West towards the UWS and the colorful sky: picture perfect.
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John C.

Yelp
Come for a stroll or a run around the reservoir. It's just gorgeous. The views of the manhattan skyline are likewise gorgeous from anywhere around the lake. It's about 1.6 miles around. Completely flat. Packed with fine gravel. So, an easy walk for any one of any age. The trail that surrounds it is not too wide. Just wide enough for maybe 4 people to walk abreast. And during Covid, you probably don't want to do that. My family and I walked single file most of the way in order to be considerate of others during these crazy times.
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Marcelle M.

Yelp
Incredible spot for a view of the reservoir. The trail around the reservoir is bike free only pedestrians or runners. Beautiful views especially during fall foliage
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Robert C.

Yelp
Saw this reservoir 2.2 miles away from atop Rockefeller Center 2 years ago. Went to the Museum of New York City on 96th street by subway. Came out and walked first through the Conservatory Gardens, and then walked a ways before the trees opened up and what a sight: a vast sea of water with skyscrapers in a distance. I've never been to Chicago but I thought about posting my pictures, titling it as Chicago skyscrapers alongside Lake Michigan. Nobody would know the difference! The reservoir used to be called Central Park Reservoir, a barbed wire fence with a dirt trail around it, and was for a time a source of water for the city. Problem was that bottled water saying "Central Park Reservoir" did not sell well. Not enough panache. When Jackie died in 1994, they renamed it after her, but of course had to make the reservoir decent looking, as befitting her name. The barbed wire fence was replaced by ornamental iron gating, and the trail was cleaned up and compacted with gravel. Today you still can't get water titled "Jacqueline Onassis Reservoir", unlike JO perfume, and other substances named after the former first lady. The reservoir is decommissioned, and is no longer a source of water for the city. Good thing, as I just saw a goose poop in the water. No dogs, as they don't want dogs contaminating the water, just in case. Today the 1.58 mile trail surrounds the lake, going alongside. Wide enough to easily fit a service truck. Signs say "No bikes, no dogs, no strollers, no skateboards, and no rollerblades". We see at least one stroller, and guess that none of New York's finest is going to give a lady pushing a stroller a citation! Check out the background building for "Ghostbusters". You do not want to get lost here at night! A sure way to get acquainted with former inhabitants of Riker's Island! We head south, walking alongside the reservoir on the trail, staying out of the way of the many runners practicing for the New York marathon. On racing tracks and bicycling tracks you always go counter clock wise, just like horse racing. A sign which says "Walk Counter Clock wise" They going to cite me for going clockwise? Just DWA!
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Vaughn F.

Yelp
1.58 miles in circumference, the reservoir is a lovely feature of Central Park's upper half. Decommissioned, the water in the reservoir is no longer part of the city's supply; instead, it just sits there, beautiful and serene. It's actually a little weird seeing such a big body of water in Manhattan. A little out of place. Walking or jogging around the perimeter affords astounding views of recognizable buildings on the upper east and west sides, while the view South showcases the supertall skyscrapers of Billionaire's Row. There's a level of detachment at the reservoir that only a few other places in the city--Fort Tryon, Inwood Hill Park, Grant's Tomb--can aspire to. If you live uptown, check this place out. If you're visiting from elsewhere, be sure to also check out the nearby museums on 5th Avenue. From the running track, you can glimpse the Guggenheim through the trees. That's neat.
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Steve A.

Yelp
This is a big reservoir. It has to be big if it's to supply all of New York with drinking water. Seriously this is one of the most beautiful things in the city. It has a nice biking and running path. This offers some great views of Central Park and skyline. It's not hard to find. It's located in the middle of the park. The 85th Street Transverse runs right along this. At the southern end is a big building. It has several flights of stairs leading up to the bike path. A lot of runners like to hog this path, so just stay out of their way or they will run you over. There are several great spots for pictures. It always seems to get crowded. Mornings are best. There's not quite as many people on the paths yet.
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Kwame S.

Yelp
Great place to have a nice run around the 1.5ish mile loop. It's a bit dusty on the path so wear shoes that you don't mind getting slightly dirty.
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Bea B.

Yelp
This was my running spot when I lived on the UWS. Back then, one had to contend with all manner of visitors along the narrow path directly circling the lake. Running there was sort of like playing (classic arcade game) Paper Boy. Previously, at Jackie O rez, one had to contend with zipping around strollers, hopping away from nosy dogs & dodging cyclists who were seemingly intent on running into you. Now, however, jogging the reservoir is truly bliss. Signs flank the entry points to this walk/jog path stating something to the effect of: In the interest of safety, no strollers, bikes or dogs are permitted. One is meant to move in a clockwise direction as well. The only thing one has to worry about is cutting off a faster jogger when overtaking a slower jogger. ;) No great shakes, a quick turn of the head to check the peripherals before making a move and all is right with the world. For those who do have bikes, strollers and dogs, the much wider path that rings the smaller path welcomes all. Shore length: 1.58 miles around.
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Fox E.

Yelp
I feel a little Jacqued up, so I'll write another review. Named after the cutest Jackie ever to marry a President, this magnificent Reservoir practically fills up the entirety of Central Park (well not really but it's damn big). It allows for insanely spectacular views of the UWS and UES depending upon which side of it you are standing on. You can see it from the air as you fly over NYC, but you're better off seeing it from the ground as you wander around the Rez. It may be the most picturesque and stunning urban lake in the world. Certainly it should be the most iconic.
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Neil B.

Yelp
I very much enjoy walking around the reservoir during my lunch hour. The views are magnificent and the park keeps the path and surrounding areas in good repair. Special kudos to those who maintain the plant life! The walking path is marked as one way and bikes are not allowed. Unfortunately no one seems to enforce this, so on nice days (especially in the spring) walking on the path involves navigating crowds walking in the wrong direction! :-( The reservoir itself is home to many species of birds, turtles and I would assume fish (though I have no way to confirm this). Unfortunately the north end of a reservoir is also home to plastic bottles, plastic bags and trash that selfish visitors have discarded into the reservoir and that the park should allocate more manpower to remove it on a more regular basis. But otherwise this really is an oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle!
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Robin Lisa R.

Yelp
Fabulous view and I'm glad I saw it. She meant a lot to me and to so many people. The walk around it was peaceful
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Burton F.

Yelp
My favorite place to run in NYC. So lucky to live 1 block from the entrance. One lap around the reservoir is 1.6 mi/2.5km.

Taylor M.

Yelp
Great place to come for a walk or a run. If you're running I recommend coming at off peak times (early morning, winter, etc) to avoid crowds. On a nice spring Saturday it will be relatively crowded and to run you'll have to weave around people. It's a nice distance (under 2 miles) and the ground is soft. It should be noted that it is one way and that no bikes are allowed. Great scenery and overall highly recommend
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Donna B.

Yelp
I missed this on a trivia question last fall. So when I was walking thru Central Park after Christmas I made it a point to see this area. A large lake near the north end of the park. From the south shore, what a beautiful view. Sun as it glints across the calm water with the Manhattan skyline in the background. Truly iconic. Just what I think about when I envision looking across Central Park. Can you imagine how beautiful it must be in the fall ? I guess I need to return to see.
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Elsie W.

Yelp
Run, breathe, run, breathe. Pause to check in on Yelp. Run, breathe, run, breathe. Pause to take a quick pic (mental OR physical) of the tranquil scene before you -- ducks treading water, the sun setting and reflecting off tall buildings, and other people admiring the same scene... Run, breathe, run, breathe. Don't worry if others lap you. Run at your own pace. Run, breathe, run, breathe. Hey, guess what. What? You've run around twice. That's a 5K right there.
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Ali V.

Yelp
My favorite place to run in Central Park is the bridle path. It's never too crowded, but usually has enough people out (except late or when it's cold) that I feel safe. The surface is soft, which is so great for reducing pounding during my long runs. In the fall, it's incredibly beautiful, especially in the part that snakes south, away from the reservoir. Plus, if there are too many puddles or not enough people, you can go to the running track around the reservoir (which is well-lit) or head out onto the main outer loop to finish your run. The bridle path is hilly, and there are some cars on it. The cars don't bother me too much, and the hills slow me down, but I figure that they are good for me. If you run on the track, it is ONE WAY and there are NO strollers or bikes allowed. The rules are more lax on the bridle path.​

Bre O.

Yelp
I love the running track at the Reservoir during the Corona virus lockdown for a little view of the outside world especially with spring coming and the flowers blooming. No matter when it pays to get there early to avoid the people violating the rules by bringing their strollers and dogs. Sometimes they let their toddlers toddle across the track and the runners barely see the kid due to the runners in front until the kids is about to get ground into the dust. Darwin award narrowly averted.
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Maria B.

Yelp
The first time I came to NYC I ran around this reservoir a few times. I was staying with friends on the UES and this was close by. When I moved to NYC I lived West but used to go to the reservoir anyway, it really is a nice area to walk or run. I typically went in the daylight hours as it was a little creepy at night, although I've heard that its got better lighting now at night, but Ive never actually tested that. Central Park has so much to offer. Pretty much for anyone. This place adds to the list of options in the park.
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Taylor S.

Yelp
Pretty underwhelmed by this large body of water in the park. Beautiful but I wish It was not in the way as there are better things to do with the space.
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Giacomo C.

Yelp
Looooove running around this epic trail, so often depicted in movies and tv series. I clearly remember when the inside was lined with tall fences, making it difficult to even shoot a decent photo of the skyline of the city. When they replaced it with the current waist-high rail, the place gained even more charm. Earlier in the morning and later in the afternoon are the best times to go, although you won't ever be disappointed at any time of the day. The outside ring is better for runners, as it's much wider and less crowded. But why would you miss the gorgeous view?
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Yusuf W.

Yelp
In all my years of living in New York, the Jackie Onassis Resevoir (along with Prospect Park when I used to live in Brooklyn) has largely contributed to my being able to be more balanced and centered in the city that never sleeps. In a city where one has hundreds of thousands of mediums vying for your attention in any given moment, having a running path in one of the most beautiful parks in the world is an incredible plus to living in this magnificent city. From different vantage points on the reservoir, one can see hundreds (if not thousands) of post-card-like views of the park. From the blossoming of the cherry plum trees to the numerous plant and vegetation species around the 1.58 mile path, the reservoir is a wonder for both runners and park patrons alike. For those who may find the reservoir a little crowded (Saturday and Sunday afternoons during the Spring and Summer seasons can get just a tad bit busy with runners and tourists), there's a larger, additional path that is just outside of the reservoir and, for the most part, parallels the reservoir but with much more room to run. The Central Park Reservoir is one of the highlights of not only Central Park, but also of New York City. Whether you enjoy running (as I do) or taking a leisurely morning, afternoon, or evening stroll, the Reservoir is truly one of the cities most spectacular treasures. Get involved!
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Phil H.

Yelp
Been trying to incorporate a little jogging into my fitness routine lately. Once in a while when in the mood and the weather cooperates I head over to this picturesque track surrounding the water. The running track is nice and flat and the views are amazing. No dogs, bikes, or skateboards are allowed. Just be mindful of the other joggers and keep it moving in the same direction. If you stop to take pictures or get in the way you will be met with the "stare of death"! Too bad my knees still seem to take a beating from running, hence I stick with the treadmill mostly, but this is a nice change of pace.
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Jamel O.

Yelp
If you haven't noticed, I love to give the parkland treasures of new york their due... And the Reservoir is no exception...it is as picturesque as Jackie O herself. It is a great place to walk and gather your own thoughts, jog or stroll with someone... If you are wondering off, dont step in horse doo doo..(trust me, you need to know this).
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Elizabeth J.

Yelp
This is one of my favorite places to run in the park. It gets a little annoying with tourists in the summer time, but in the fall/spring its perfect. Incredible view, very big expanse of the water and the skyline all around, makes you feel as though you are whisked away to different parts of the city. It also helps motivate me to run further, because its such a relaxing run. The inner part of the track is ~1.5-1.6, the outer track is ~1.9. Take a few laps and your good to go. Note: No dogs allowed, sorry Felix you and your cuteness are not allowed nor appreciated on the run/walk track. Also, no bikes, skate boards, etc. (its dirt people, so if you are dumb enough then you will most likely get yelled at). If you are coming here to walk/take photos be mindful of the runners, it sucks when you have some smuck in your way taking their self-portrait for facebook. :p .
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Alyssa R.

Yelp
For me the JKO Reservoir is one of the most serene spots in Central Park, maybe even NYC. It's considerably less crowded than some of the other sites in the park, but offers up one of the best unobstructed views in the city. I'm partial to the architecture found on the west side, so I find the eastern side of the reservoir to be the best for those views. Just gorgeous, especially on a crisp & sunny spring or early fall day. Easiest place to enter the reservoir path? East side, just north of 90th St.
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Tyler R.

Yelp
Yoggers and walkers alike will delight in the reservoir's nicely graveled path around its watery, gooey center. There are very good views of NYC from OUTSIDE the city, but dare I say...what a view from Manhattan's most central of parks. My experience here gives me a new appreciation for the island on which I work. Walk slow, walk fast. Yog. Earbuds or conversation, its a nice walk and is the best damn lunch break you could ask for. Just watch out for the serious runners, mind your right hand side. Being cooped up on the windowless S2 (the basement's basement) level for 8 hours a day at work getting my Business on definitely takes its toll on the MBS (mind, body, soul) and a midday walk around here with the sun, a fresh breeze, and lots of other people...its hard to find a reason not to go. And when it's hot...i'd jump in if i could. But I cannot. Also, the lot of us agreed and any and all shady activity requiring bodies of water is much better served in the East River. Let's keep it friendly over here, because it sure is pretty. And it smells nice.
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Janice Y.

Yelp
I ran and walked around the track here every day when I was visiting. This would be a morning routine should I live so close. I loved it and it is very serene and you don't feel like you're in a city when you're inside any part of Central Park. I have to say it's a favorite because it's probably the least touristy section. Very beautiful indeed!
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Alexandra R.

Yelp
My second favorite part of the park, after the great lawn. Absolutely the most scenic place for a run, which in turn is motivating since the view ain't too shabby. I also like that it's pretty flat, wouldn't want to overexert myself or anything. Go here for a run, or a stroll. The reservoir/track runs from 86th to 96th east & west in a loop...you can't miss it.
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Carla C.

Yelp
Walkers and joggers galore yesterday! Also know as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. The storied Central Park Reservoir (built 1853) has been a favorite site for so many. And to think, this was Jackie O's regular walking spot! People watching, bird watching, and glorious surround. In the novel Marathon Man, the main character muses that, "Whoever invented the reservoir must have done it with him alone in mind. It was without flaw, a perfect lake set in the most unexpected of locations." Anyone who has ever run, walked, or stood watching the sun rise or set over the water feels that same way. There's a sense of space and solitude here, unlike any other part of the Park. President Bill Clinton, Madonna and Jackie Kennedy Onassis (who the reservoir was named for in 1994) are among the runners who have taken to this 1.58 mile track.
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Wendy G.

Yelp
So beautiful there! My breath literally stopped when I witnessed the East side view from the southwest side. The track for running and jogging was narrower than I thought though.

Yolanda W.

Yelp
Jacqueline didn't give any helpful suggestions, she only confirmed my ideas and what I already knew. She bought paint samples that I already had and sent 2 pictures of rugs that I had already looked at from Amazon and Wayfair. When I texted her to discuss details it took her several hours to respond. I quickly learned that she was not the person for my project. I'm glad I only invested 2 hours in her service. I would not recommend her for decorating.
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Deniz V.

Yelp
This would be a fantastic jogging route. As it is, even on a rainy day, walking around was beautiful and when the flowers are in bloom, it's even better. Great view of the water and skyline. Worth a stop when in Central Park.
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Victoria G.

Yelp
An 86th to 96th Street Delight The JKO Resevoir is located in the borough of Manhattan stretching from the 86th to 96th Street area. Check out the 1.58 mile jogging track. A great area to stroll and breath in air in natural surroundings. Evidently tourists visit this location in the Spring to see the Cherry Blossoms in its full glory (Double Pink "Yoshino").
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Lisa F.

Yelp
Amazing part of Central Park to run (1.5 m) or to take a walk for beautiful views of the NYC skyline. So beautiful, a relaxing escape, and also a great walk for taking out of town guests for some fantastic views and photos of the city
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Sean C.

Yelp
Fantastic and rare landscape in such a crowded city. A must visit if you come to NYC. For NYC dwellers, it's a nice place to take a jog, a stroll or even a deep breath from your busy work. It is naturally impressionistic regardless the season - just came here for winter and it is breathtakingly beautiful with the snow-fogged up water surface and the distant Upper west side buildings blinking. Definitely worth your afternoon time to walk around with friends, family or lover, despite the cold weather. Enjoy the best NYC can offer :)
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Frank W.

Yelp
My favorite thing about living on the Upper West Side is the Reservoir. It offers a view of Midtown Manhattan that is breathtaking at sunset or in the evening when the glittering skyline over the water is a calming and beautiful sight. There are ducks and geese year round it seems as well as annoying tourists taking pictures, but on the upside there are also nice tourists, and cute tourists, and couples and old people and lonely souls. After it rains you dodge the mud puddles, but you will still splatter both your calves and the calves of others. After the snow melts a bit you may slide and skid on the ice, and wonder if it's possible that you will impale yourself, or be flung over the fencing and into the drink. Now there are rabid raccoons to worry about and the occasional stray coyote, but it's hard to think of a more calming, peaceful place to be in all of Manhattan...as long as you run in the right direction.
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Pearl O.

Yelp
dear mother nature, thank you for the beautifully mild days youve been gracing us with lately, which allows me to go for runs around the inner 1.6 mile jackie o loop in central park. (bikes, dogs, and carriages are prohibited from the loop, so the path is designated only for real runners*). i also thank you for the beautiful view of the sun setting behind the skyline above the trees that helps to distract me during my run. i appreciate your cooperation, mn - keep it up! xoxo, pk *or fake runners that try to be real runners, like yours truly.
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Gaetano S.

Yelp
Incredible wiew!! You can run or walk around the ring and have a wonderful view of New York City!! The skyline is just amazing and you can enjoy the best sunset ever, with spectacular colors.... A little treasure in the middle of Manhattan.