If you’re arriving at Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan and wondering how to get to Central Park, you’re in the perfect spot. Whether you’re walking, hopping on the subway, or grabbing a cab, this guide will show you the fastest, cheapest, and most scenic ways to reach Central Park from Penn Station in 2025.
Penn Station (Pennsylvania Station) is a major transportation hub located at 34th Street and 7th Avenue, while Central Park begins at 59th Street and stretches up to 110th Street. That’s about 25 blocks north, or roughly 1.2 miles to the southern edge of Central Park.
🚶 Option 1: Walk From Penn Station to Central Park (Scenic + Free)
One of the most enjoyable ways to travel from Penn Station to Central Park is simply by walking. This route lets you experience Midtown Manhattan on foot.
Directions:
- Exit Penn Station at 34th Street and head north on 7th Avenue or 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas).
- Walk about 25 blocks until you reach Central Park South (59th Street).
🕒 Time: 20–25 minutes
💲 Cost: Free
✅ Best For: Sightseeing, first-time NYC visitors, no rush
🏞️ What You’ll See Along the Way:
- Macy’s Herald Square
- Times Square (if you detour west)
- Radio City Music Hall
- Columbus Circle (near the southwest corner of Central Park)
🚇 Option 2: Subway From Penn Station to Central Park (Fastest Transit)
If you’re in a hurry, taking the NYC Subway from Penn Station to Central Park is the most efficient public transit option.
Subway Options:
A, C, or E Lines (Uptown):
- Enter the subway at Penn Station (34th Street).
- Take the A, C, or E train (Uptown).
- Get off at 59th Street–Columbus Circle, which is right at the southwest corner of Central Park.
B, D, or N/Q/R Lines (Alternate):
- Take the 34th St–Herald Square station (2 blocks east).
- Ride B, D, N, Q, or R uptown to 59th Street.
🕒 Time: 10–12 minutes
💲 Cost: $2.90 (MetroCard or OMNY tap)
✅ Best For: Travelers in a rush, commuting locals
🚖 Option 3: Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) From Penn Station to Central Park
If you prefer convenience, especially with luggage or during poor weather, a yellow taxi, Uber, or Lyft can take you directly from Penn Station to Central Park.
How It Works:
- Use the Uber/Lyft app, or find a yellow cab stand outside Penn Station.
- Set your destination to Central Park (Columbus Circle or Grand Army Plaza).
🕒 Time: 10–20 minutes (depending on traffic)
💲 Estimated Fare: $15–$25
✅ Best For: Convenience, groups, accessibility
🚴 Option 4: Citi Bike From Penn Station to Central Park (Active & Fun)
NYC’s Citi Bike program is a great way to travel short distances while enjoying the outdoors.
How to Do It:
- Find a Citi Bike station near 7th Avenue & 33rd Street.
- Ride north to 59th Street and dock your bike near Columbus Circle or 5th Avenue & Central Park South.
🕒 Time: 10–15 minutes
💲 Cost: $4.79 (single ride) or day pass options
✅ Best For: Active travelers, good weather days
🗺️ Quick Comparison: Best Ways to Get to Central Park From Penn Station
| Transport Method | Time | Cost | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚶 Walking | 20–25 min | Free | Sightseeing & fitness |
| 🚇 Subway (A/C/E) | 10–12 min | $2.90 | Fastest & reliable |
| 🚖 Taxi/Rideshare | 10–20 min | $15–$25 | Comfort & ease |
| 🚴 Citi Bike | 10–15 min | ~$5 | Outdoor enthusiasts |
🧭 Best Entrances to Central Park From Penn Station
- Columbus Circle (59th & 8th Ave): Ideal for subway riders (A/C/E, B/D)
- Grand Army Plaza (59th & 5th Ave): Great for walkers and cab drop-offs
- West 72nd Street Entrance: Best if you’re heading to Strawberry Fields or The Lake
🔍 FAQs – Getting From Penn Station to Central Park
Q: How far is Penn Station from Central Park?
About 1.2 miles, or roughly 25 blocks from 34th Street to 59th Street.
Q: Can I walk from Penn Station to Central Park?
Yes! It’s a pleasant 20–25-minute walk through Midtown Manhattan.
Q: What subway goes from Penn Station to Central Park?
Take the A, C, or E uptown from 34th Street–Penn Station to 59th Street–Columbus Circle.
Q: Is there a bike route between Penn Station and Central Park?
Yes. Use Citi Bike and ride up 7th or 8th Avenue using NYC’s protected bike lanes.
Q: What is the fastest way to get to Central Park from Penn Station?
The subway is typically the fastest, especially during rush hour.
🏁 Final Tips
- If you’re carrying luggage, opt for a taxi or Uber.
- For the most scenic route, walk or bike through Midtown to Central Park.
- Avoid rush hours (8–10 AM, 5–7 PM) if using car transport to avoid delays.
📌 Whether you’re catching a concert at SummerStage, visiting The Met, enjoying a walk along The Mall, or taking a romantic ride in a Central Park carriage, getting from Penn Station to Central Park is fast, affordable, and easy.