Sheep Meadow

I was on a long walk around Central Park one Saturday and I passed by Sheep Meadow. Very musty area with lots of sun bathers and groups of happy people enjoying a great day in the park. Manny groups have parties but most were just relaxing n the sun. What a great space in NYC.

I absolutely love Sheep Meadow, right in the heart of Central Park. It’s always well-maintained, with soft, fluffy grass. People come here to relax, hang out with loved ones, work out, or celebrate special moments. If you have a few hours to spare and you’re nearby, grab some food and drinks and enjoy a perfect picnic here — it’s one of the best ways to experience the park.

It was so pity that I went on Macy's thanksgiving day. So, the park was closed. But taking the pictures outside was so spectacular and picturesque.

Sheep Meadow is a lovely space for a nice quiet picnic or laying out in the sun option. I was able to visit with friends and we had a sheet and snacks to enjoy. We visited on Sunday June 1, 2025 and the weather was lovely as it was around 75 and sunny. The restroom option is just okay, as there are only 3 stalls and usually a line but glad there is one! Overall it’s a lovely place to play, relax, read etc. I visited from Long Island and took train and subway but would not recommend driving if you’re on a tight schedule! Bring sun protection and an open mind as it’s a lively and active space. ☀️

I love watching people on here while they are enjoying their moments with their valuables, kids, dogs, friends, families. It’s really great to have this kind of space in the really big metropole.

Sheep Meadow is the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning contrast between lush green lawns and the towering skyline beyond. It’s also a lovely area to stroll through as part of a walk around the park. While it’s a spacious open field, it tends to draw a crowd, which adds to its lively, communal atmosphere. Whether you’re picnicking or just enjoying the view, Sheep Meadow offers a classic New York experience.

It’s always my favorite spot to have a picnic and just lie down.

One of the most peaceful spots in Central Park!!! Wide open space, beautiful views, and perfect for laying out, reading, or just soaking in nature. No dogs allowed, which keeps it extra calm and clean!!! (there’s a separate dog-friendly area nearby) Great place to unwind, picnic, or just vibe out with the sky above and grass under your feet. A true city escape.

I do not know the history of Sheeps meadow at all. I just know its an area in Central Park that is very open and grassy. Many people flock to this area especially on nice days for picnics, hanging with friends and family. You can see some of the city skyline from this area. There are a few different entrances to get into this area but one is near Tavern on the Green. Tourist or not this area when Open is a great place to come and visit and hang out here.

My big homie was in town for the weekend and hadn't been to NYC since he was 5, so we had to make the treacherous walk from Alphabet City (A-TOWN STAND UP!) to Central Park. First off, how could I not shout out the architects of Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. ABSOLUTE LEGENDS! I know I may be getting predictable in shouting out architects for places I love, but whatever. Deal with it. They should absolutely get more shine for designing what is EASILY the most iconic park in the world, but that is a conversation for another day. I may name one of my dogs after them though, "Olmsted" would be a sick dog name ahahaha. About 16k steps into our 39,462 step day, we stumbled upon Sheep Meadow. It consumes 15 acres of the 842.6 acres that make up Central park. Walking into the entrance, it immediately put a smile on my face as there were a bunch of human beings enjoying the sunshine by having picnics, running around with their dogs, playing ultimate frisbee, laid out reading, etc. I might have to bring Olmsted here when I get him... If you are like me, you will inevitably ask why is it called Sheep Meadow? A quick google search informed me that from 1864-1934, there were 200 sheep roaming around grazing these 15 acres with the thought being this would remind people of the idyllic English countryside. They ended up moving the sheep because they were worried New Yorkers would kill them and eat them during the great depression ahahaha that's wild. Crazy times. We sat and people watched here for about 20 minutes before continuing our journey. I knew it was time to move on when I started to size up the people playing ultimate frisbee. "I would BURN him... my route running is too crispy for them..." One of my favorite pockets in Central Park. THANK YOU FREDDY OLMSTED AND CV, I WON'T LET THEM FORGET! IG @jnov_ Tiktok @jnov__

This large grassy area of Central Park was one of the last places we hiked around on my most recent trip to New York. It was peaceful and beautiful. There were so many different types of people and dogs out enjoying the weather and green space. I really enjoyed it. There isn't a ton of shade here because it is obviously a meadow, but a nice place to people watch and see the sights of a wonderful park.

A fun place to come have a picnic! Tons of people here in the summer though. Especially on weekends. Good place to lay out and get some sun and you'll see many others in bathing suits doing the same. It's got a great view of the skyline. Fun for a large group but not the place to go if you're looking for a secluded area in nature.

Great Spot in Central Park! Pros: + Great for summer picnics + Tons of things to do during the summer + Only opens after 11 am + Always a ton of people around, with something fun to do Cons: - Limited shade IG: QueenOfAdventureNYC

Such a mood! On a sunny day, you'll see tons of people doing whatever their heart desires. From playing sports to having a picnic you can't find a better place in NYC. I usually hit the Whole Foods at Columbus, stock up on goodies and head straight here. It's an open space so shade is limited. Bring a hat or a tent to hide under if you're doing a full park day.

Pretty chill picnic location. This is probably the go to picnic spot in Central Park. It's very packed on Sunday and there are people on all four sides of you. Other people's music may sometimes be loud and carry over. However, the breeze here is pretty good, and you can easily play board games with friends

It's definitely the most pristine patch of greenery in Manhattan. That's because it's fenced off and remains open only after 11AM, and it's completely closed during the winter "to allow the lawn to rest". All the restrictions are well worth the result which is understandably the site for many legendary concerts. Just strolling through these fifteen acres and looking at the Central Park South skyline reminded me why I love New York. RELATED - Exploring NYC? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2ZvQA2F

I've been coming to Sheep Meadow since I was really young. My best friend had been having her birthday parties here for maybe around for over a decade. I've eaten lunch here, had picnics, participated in relay races, enjoyed an anniversary, hung out with my friends, and relaxed under the shade of the trees with a good book. Sheep Meadow is always crowded, but there's always space for everyone to have a good time. I used to enjoy the carousel next to it, but I stopped going because the clown faces really started freaking me out. It's a seriously trippy experience. I love relaxing here.

This Historic location in Central Park is 15 Acres of beautiful peace and quiet. If you want to enjoy the meadow you better hurry. Each Winter it closes to allow for rejuvenation of the grass. There are many time periods in the history of this section of Central Park. It is located between West 66th Street and West 69th Street approximately. If you want to learn more go to the Central Park Website. I enjoyed reading the evolution that transpired after the original vision was created by Olmsted and Vaux. This area has also been known by other names "The Green" being one of them. Yes there were sheep there at one time. When I go I envision it as it was during different days gone by. It was a different experience in the 60's and a disaster in the 70's like most of the city. Let's not take these beautiful places for granted. Thanks to the Central Park Conservancy I pray it will provide peace and beauty to our future generations. I have no idea why I posted these photos on this page. That was a few years ago. Maybe this statue is in close proximity to the Sheep Meadow. Thanks

Sheep Meadow is the spot to be with your buddies you hit up to have a picnic, have drinks out on the lawn, throw the pigskin around, or whatever you like to do on a nice summer afternoon weekend. You can also get phenomenal views and photos with the NYC skyline in the backdrop. It doesn't get any better than this.

If you think that people are like sheep, then this meadow proves it. Is Meadow in Central Park is absolutely gorgeous. It's probably my favorite part of the park and a place where I hang out when I have the time to relax and when my car isn't in Jeopardy of being towed away. The most recent time I was here I saw something that I doubt I will ever see again.

The New York equivalent of Dolores Park in Sf but a bit more tame and flat. Folks of all flavors can be found on playing games, dancing, picnicking, sun bathing, reading, and napping; there's something for everyone. It's a large open grass field with plenty of space for larger groups, come early in the day if you want a nice lush shady spot. Many people bring alcohol, make sure to bring cups so you don't get fined. So many people do it, safety in numbers right? If you forget drinks there are locals that pass by selling beverages, use caution of course. There are a set of bathrooms just outside the cyclone fencing. Only 3 stalls for the ladies, so go before you gotta go. I saw folks waiting for over thirty minutes to use the loo. Bring something to sit on if you don't want a wet or grassy bum.

*This* is by far my number one favorite park in the city. It's like beaching but more like lush green meadow beaching in a huge lawn. That's right - Sunshine, trees, grass, nature, good vibes. Just bring your blanket, lay it out, whether it be a picnic, reading for a couple hours, napping, catching up, listening to music, playing frisbee, people watching, you name it, you'll never get bored here! It's a great way to escape the city without actually leaving it. There's also bathrooms at Tavern on the Green, located right outside the fence, across the street on the west side.

It's a lot like a meadow. Just a big open space. There's lots of lazy tourists. Frisbee is a popular activity. Very few areas of Central Park are as relaxing. It isn't the only open space in Central Park, but maybe it's the best. It's different than the Great Lawn. This doesn't have any baseball fields, so this is mostly green space. Frisbee is the game of choice. There's a huge rock formation in the middle that's a popular launching spot. One thing I have always liked is the name of this place. It makes it sound okay to act like a sheep. They don't want you eating the freshly planted grass though.

This park is almost bigger than life. Designed to give New Yorkers a little piece of heaven away from the city life. Very well planned for growth, tree cover to make the city disappear, water areas and road cutting through in 2 or 3 places. Historic concerts have been put on here. We walked through maybe 25% of the park, it is nicely landscaped with bountiful flora and green grass . There were many dog areas that were fenced and your fur baby's can run free. We came across a large pond where you could rent radio control sail boats. Lots of metal statuary through out the walkways. Definitely check this park out it is true NYC treasure!

This is the best spot in Central park to lay out for a summer afternoon. It's close to the bathrooms, has enough room to throw a ball or stretch out and is close to a food option if you find yourself starving. I love this spot and will continue to frequent it in my years to come in NYC. If you stay late, please keep watch of when they start to lock the gates; you might find yourself jogging to the very furthest side of the meadow in order to exit. 5/5

Its the iconic sheep meadow at Central Park! The weather was beautiful (finally) and a lot of people were out. What can I say about the meadow? Well, for starters the grass is beautiful. The closest entrance is at either 65th or 67th St. The nearest train station is the 1 at 66th/Lincoln Center. The M10 stops just outside the park entrance. This is a meadow, and if you want any history on the area read up on Seneca Village. Its interesting. As meadows go, I haven't much experience with them, (I am a city slicker), but I would say its one of the best. What makes this meadow so awesome?!?! Is it the lush green grass? Is it the gentle sloping hills? The trees? The juxtaposition of skyscapers and parkland? No. Its one word..... BATHROOMS! Yes folks, there are bathrooms nearby! Nothing ruins a romantic picnic or an impromptu group game than having no where to...er...relax & release.  You can make a graceful exit or call for a short time out with your dignity intact. Bring a blanket, a date, and some fake bubbly and visit the meadow. Note: Open bottle = fines, except I've never seen anyone policing that. Just don't get smashed and start acting like a jerk) .                                 .

4 Stars for an oasis of open space in Central Park that fills up like a wonderful picnic festival of locals on beautiful days. I imaging Sheep Meadow is often lovely for laying out with a good book and enjoying some downtime. I happened to go on the first beautiful day after a harsh winter and seemingly all of NYC was out and enjoying the meadow. It was an amazing site! Tourists roamed other areas of the park, but somehow it became clear that this meadow was locals, picnic blanket right up against the next group's blanket, looking to soak up the sun and picnic with friends. I was lucky enough to stumble upon it with my mom on vacation and we tried to fit in (likely unsuccessfully). The truth is, no one on the meadow was worrying themselves with anyone else. They were enjoying every moment with friends! Other reviews are correct in saying you almost forget you're in the middle of New York City. I highly recommend bringing a blanket on your next trip to the park so you can really enjoy the many spaces, including Sheep Meadow. One note-- though there are signs that signal that dogs are not allowed, there were MANY on this glorious day. I wasn't bothered by them, but I did see some off-leash and one even snagged someone's sandwich on another blanket... Eek!

When you want to get away from the city and you don't want to head to Long Island,well then just come to Sheep Meadow in Central Park and wow is it relaxing. I love just lying on a beach towel and just soaking up the rays and just unwind and enjoy. So nice the view of Central Park West Skyline. Love it

Probably one of my favorite places in NYC! Massive open field perfect for hanging out with friends and catching some rays! Come alone or with a group of 20! Be sure to bring your blankets, food, beverages, and activities. Amazing people watching spot too ;)

i love how big central park is and how much there is to do there! so many places to walk around, vendors selling stuff, looking at the pond, sitting under a shady tree and having a picnic, meeting friends, etc. I probably sound like a tourist and because central park isnt accessible to me, it's prob whatevs to new yorkers, but to tourists its an awesome place to visit!

One of the biggest fields for city dwellers and tourists alike. This field offers great open spaces and some trees for shade. Depending on where you settle down, you are always in for a treat. Got a person in your group who always needs a bathroom break? Settle down near one of the restaurants. Want to be in the center where all the action is? Just make sure you watch out for flying objects. The only down side is this location doesn't allow dogs (but people definitely ignore the signs...)

Lovely park and quite large in general. You can spend hours in there walking, playing, viewing, biking, running, or even photographing. There will be policed on horse or by foot that patrols the area at times and it's pretty convenient with the yellow line at walking distance and some bus stops too. 4 and 6 train is available too but much further down, but still walkable. Still some squirrels like other parks too and there is dog park around the area as well as some playgrounds. A pond in there and close to some museums, restaurants, and even a botanical garden. Beautiful area but still pretty windy and cold during this time. It'd be fine without the wind but still can get pretty windy so remember to wear more. Some food or snack carts around and banks if you need cash. Not too far from Columbus circle too where the trump tower is at..so more police cars over there.

The Sheep Meadow in Central Park is one big ass green lawn that is an oasis away from the concrete jungle of city living. Damn, this winter is so long here in NY that my mind starts to dream about those warm spring days when you can grab a blanket, pack a lunch, kick back and lay in the sun on this soft green plot of space. Sneak in your booze and don't get caught as alcohol is not allowed - another dumb rule of NYC parks. Lots of people watching opportunities. Areas to hang out for the sun worshippers to catch a tan, or spots to enjoy some cool shade. You see it all here, from people playing football and soccer, to couples being romantic, to groups of friends having picnics. Lots of eye candy to enjoy too - so wear your shades or you will look like a staring creeper! Now only if they would outlaw crying screaming babies, annoying kids, and old fat guys who like to oil up their hairy guts and prance around this would have been five stars from me! There are just some things that you don't want to see!

This is a great place to grab some lunch and sit on one of the many park benches here. It was a cool summer day in New York which made for a great location to sit and relax. There is a lot of green and small birds that hang out in the park. There is a zoo located south of this park area. Overall: it's cool to check out.

There must be something clinically wrong with you if a large sea of bright green grass on a beautiful, sunny spring or summer day doesn't make you smile. In the concrete jungle that is the NY of C, this is an oasis in the middle of Central Park that brings together all types of New Yorkers (and tourists) - big and small, young and old, mean and nice, fat and slender...ok, by now you get the idea. I've had many a picnic here with friends and it's great for outdoor boozing in paper cups, Poland spring bottles - just *do you* and don't get caught ;-). Catch some sun and attract nature's vitamin D, people watch, play with pets, watch other people play with their pets, eat cheese...it's a people's paradise on the greenest oasis that Central Park has to offer. 5 stars from a born and bred Manhattanite (who is not displaced in Queens and settles with Astoria Park from time to time, just kidding - I don't settle, it's a faaaaaantastic park with an amazing view of a bridge, but it's no Central Park) :D.

Sheep Meadow is a great place to sit and hang with friends, a date, family, or by yourself if you just need some time to get away. It has a nice uninterrupted view of the city and it also has LOTS of greenery. Kids will enjoy playing catch or frisbee (if there's room), or become terrified of running from dogs and bees. You can sunbathe or just sit and take in the sights and sounds of the city (not extremely loud). I stop here and chill for while EVERY TIME I visit the city. Some say it's more of a touristy location but I usually see lots of locals walking their dogs or taking a break from jobs at local businesses. When it's really sunny and hot, there's some shade around the area to keep you safe for a while. It's a short walk from the mall, so I suggest grabbing a bite and some beer from Whole Foods and then sitting down for a picnic. If you get beer, be prepared to drink it discreetly (many people are seen drinking it out of brown bags - I'm guessing it isn't legal to drink openly in NYC). We usually sit on the grass, but feel free to take a blanket or a chair in order to make your stay more comfortable.

What's there not to like? For New Yorkers and tourists alike, this is a superb place to come sit down or lay down and escape from the concrete jungle for a while. Great views of some of the NY skyline. Awesome for people watching, picnics, frisbee throwing and of course sun bathing!

Is it called Sheep Meadow because whenever the weather is nice out the creatures of NYC flock to this place like sheep? Seriously, I think that must be why it is named that. Even if you are as antisocial as antisocialites come it is impossible to not speak to somebody new here. Whether you want to join in a game of frisbee with some randos or you need to shout "What the fuck is wrong with you?" at someone who missed their catch and caused you to get nailed with a football while trying to nap, you are guaranteed some sort of social interaction. The acroyoga people are really friendly if that is your thing as well. Or you can just stare at them too. Whatever. Charge up your speakers, stop by Whole Foods in Colombus Circle for drinks and snacks, lather up with some sunscreen or baby oil if you are daring, prepare a sack of balls, and call up the bros and the hoes and BOOM!, perfect day is in order presuming the weather Gods cooperate. No shoes allowed. Please bring cute puppies so I can play. Thanks.

A little gem, mini getaway for the locals. Can't go wrong with large open space, views of nearby city buildings, sun and fresh air in NYC! Great for picnics, little parties, sunbathing, kid entertaining, wine drinking and just relaxing! There are spots of shade on the perimeter under trees, open areas for sun and just so much space to run around and play!

This is a large open (but no shade) grassy field to lie-sit and take a break from wherever you were going. The people watching is fun. It's for the locals? as saw more of them than visitors.

This is quiet in the heart of the city and well maintained. Such a beautiful piece of land that you can sit in a bench or on a warm stone and have a picnic or just burn off some energy. My son was especially excited about the street performers and all of the vendors selling treats. Plenty of horse drawn carriages to have a ride from if you'd like as well right around the corner. A must see if visiting NYC.

One of the best spots city has to offer : * Bring a sheet * Make sure to bring frisbe * A great spot for people watching * Bring food and then eat it for next few hours(lazy afternoons) :) One can never get bored at this spot!

obsessed with this amazing place. it may be the official digital detox day from your traditional job in finance of sales. you can come here to soak in the sun and just chill. wonderful free place to tan

For the last few weekends, this has become a regular Sunday spot to meet up with friends, study (seriously), blow bubbles, fly kites and roller skate! This open meadow fills up rather quickly with other picnicking folks, from families to groups of drunk friends, taking in the sun in this open meadow. It's close enough to the street to make it an easy walk to the subway or to stores/restaurants close-by, but far enough in to feel like you've escaped the traffic and bustle of the city. You still have a skyline as a backdrop but the open greenness of the meadow is refreshing. It's an awesome spot for people-watching or relaxing to read a book, either way it's a pretty guaranteed relaxing afternoon. During the weekends in the summer time between 2:30 to 6:30 pm, you can hear the faint sounds in the background of disco house music from the dance skaters nearby (Central Park Dance Skaters: http://www.cpdsa.org/),. So grab your picnic blanket and rollerskates, and look forward to a nice afternoon. Tips: 1. There are rules posted such as no glass bottles, no dogs, etc. Consider bringing (and hiding) boxed wine or other discreet beverages. 2. There are food carts closer to West Drive if you want to have an impromptu picnic. 3. The bathroom in the gift shop closer to West Drive (near the food carts) is cleaner and a shorter wait than those located just north of Sheep's Meadow.

I have been coming to Sheep Meadow since I was a child. My summer camp was literally down the block from the west side entrance and every day at lunch we would head here to picnic and run around. When my friends decided to host a picnic here, I couldn't say no. The meadow is just as I remember. It's big and inviting. There is space for everyone and even some shaded areas closer to the paths. There are vendors that sell water, hot dogs, etc. Keep in mind water is $3 a bottle, so you may want to stop at the bodega on your way in. Sometimes people will walk around and sell beer and frozen margaritas. There is plenty of frisbies and footballs being thrown at all times. You just have to be careful with the women in thong bikinis, they might make you jump a little.

This place is perfection. It is absolutely gorgeous. And as someone who is not very park-inclined. This actually means a lot. The minute I stepped onto the field. I took off my flip flops and pranced around for a while. There's nothing more idyllic than such a beautiful open space. It's good for sunbathing, throwing a football around, picnicking with friends, etc. -- basically America. If you want to be in the shade for a get together with some beer and whatnots, that can also be arranged with the plentiful shaded areas under the trees that provide the perimeter of Sheep Meadow. There's also one low tree that is great for climbing. And beach volleyball. And plenty of people for people watching.

It is a wide open field to hang out in and enjoy nature. There are a few trees that offer shade and the north end is close to the bathrooms. Overall it is hard to beat relaxing in Central Park on a nice day

Spring.... It's in the air and for some it's just everywhere. Sneezing, watery eyes. Why not have a nice backdrop to enjoy it? This is Sheep Meadow in Central Park. It's a great open space to get some sun, have a picnic, toss a frisbee and some pigskin. This place is very welcoming and an awesome place to get a tan. A couple of friends and mine decided to come here and relax, get some sun and play some scrabble. It's kinda hard to concentrate on what your doing with all the eye candy all around. Girls in bikinis oiling up. Guys in shorts playing football and soccer. Here's a tip. Always wear sunglasses. You don't wanna get caught staring. =)

Popular park area inside central park- good spot to come throw a Frisbee and hang out with friends. I feel like it's a really new york thing to come here but I enjoyed it. Lots of ppl tanning on nice days. It's basically a huge patch of green grass. Bring your picnic blankets!

It's Central Park in New York City... It's big, beautiful with plenty of space. I just love coming here when I have no place to go and can wonder for hours. There are places you can find for solitude as well as places that are over-run with tourists and locals just looking to enjoy the park. The Great Lawn, Band Shell, Rink, Rocks, Trees, and paths.... When your looking for a place to just enjoy your surroundings come to the park. (Even if you live on Long Island...) You may want to bring a camera....

Sheep Meadow is an expansive lawn in the middle of the park. As I have overheard the pedicab bikers say a million times, there used to be actual sheep there. The Tavern on the Green was the holding pen, and a shepherd would take them out to pasture every day just to make the park look pastoral. Now it's a very popular hangout spot in the spring and summer. I would recommend this location as a meeting place or for visitors. The southern skyline is very photogenic; the vast green and the city backdrop give it a "This is New York!" feel. (To get away and forget you are in a jam-packed city, a walk in the nearby Ramble or the further North Woods might be better options)

Love this area of the park. We were visiting NYC and just was going to walk by it however found a park bench and starting talking, then people watching, a baseball game was taking place and we got right into it. People in the park are friendly, Catching some rays while lying on blankets on grass in the sun. Can't wait to go again!!

We took our dogs on a walk through Central Park and this was such a nice spot to sit and relax. It is amazing how this large piece of land is situated in one of the biggest cities in the world. The entire park is completely fascinating to me and it is super awesome for the dogs to get a green patch to play on and a much needed change from the concrete jungle outside of the park.

Sheep Meadow is the best place to go during the summer. So much space and just an awesome place to hang around or play ball. I highly recommend going. Bring plenty of sun screen though because sometimes you won't find a shady spot but hey being in the center isn't all too bad. Great place to be

So crowded! Whenever it's nice outside or there's a holiday, people flock to this huge area in the middle of the City. It's ingenious engineering. Around this green open space, you can see skyscrapers. Such a great place! Lots of doggies, so watch for the poo.

My new favorite spot for serenity needs)) the other week I attended Philharmonic Orchestra Concert on Sheep Meadow. It was absolutely magical!

This place has a lot of fresh grass. Good for nice sunny days. Bad for winter / past 10pm (as my friend Ko will say, "rape-o-clock") Lots of grass. Pros: - Grass and trees. Seems to go well with sunny days. Cons: - Good times not guaranteed after sundown. - No smurfs to be found.