Looking for the quickest way to get to Central Park from Times Square? Whether you’re a tourist visiting Midtown Manhattan or a local planning a day outdoors, this guide provides the most efficient routes—by subway, walking, taxi, or bike—from Times Square to Central Park, one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City.
📍 How Far is Central Park from Times Square?
Central Park is approximately 0.5 to 1 mile north of Times Square, depending on your destination within the park. The southern end of Central Park begins at 59th Street, while Times Square is centered around 42nd Street and 7th Avenue. On average, it takes 10–20 minutes to reach the park from Times Square.
🚇 Subway: Fastest Public Transit Option
🚉 Closest Subway Stations to Use
- From Times Square–42nd Street Station
- Take the 1, A, B, C, or D subway lines
- Transfer options: You can transfer to the N/Q/R/W lines at 57th St if needed
✅ Best Subway Route
- Enter the Times Square–42nd Street subway station
- Take the 1 train (red line) uptown to 59th Street–Columbus Circle — just two stops.
- Exit at Columbus Circle.
- Walk one block east to enter Central Park South near Sheep Meadow or explore Merchants’ Gate entrance.
🕒 Subway travel time: ~5 minutes
💵 Fare: $2.90 (OMNY or MetroCard)
🚶 Walking From Times Square to Central Park
Walking is not only scenic but also incredibly simple. Here’s how:
🗺️ Step-by-Step Walking Directions:
- Head north on 7th Avenue or Broadway
- Continue walking for about 15–20 minutes (~12 blocks)
- You’ll reach Central Park South (59th Street)
- Enter through:
- Columbus Circle (West Side)
- Grand Army Plaza (East Side, near The Plaza Hotel)
🚶♂️ Total walking time: ~15–20 minutes
✅ Best for: Tourists wanting to explore Midtown and see landmarks along the way
🚖 Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Need comfort or speed? A yellow cab or rideshare from Times Square to Central Park is a quick option.
💰 Taxi Cost Estimate:
- Yellow Taxi Fare: ~$8–$12 (depending on traffic)
- Uber/Lyft: May vary by demand but ranges from $10–$15
- 🚦 Traffic during rush hour can slow down your trip
🕒 Travel time: 8–15 minutes (varies with traffic)
🚴 Citi Bike: Bike to Central Park
For a more active way to travel, try Citi Bike NYC, available all over Midtown.
🚴 Steps to Use Citi Bike:
- Download the Citi Bike app
- Find a nearby docking station (near Times Square or Bryant Park)
- Ride north along 7th Avenue, 8th Avenue, or Broadway
- Dock at Columbus Circle or 5th Ave/59th Street
⏱ Ride time: ~10–15 minutes
💵 Cost: ~$4 for a single 30-minute ride or a $19 day pass
🎯 Which Central Park Entrance Should You Use?
Here are the most convenient entrances to Central Park from Times Square:
| Entrance | Street | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus Circle | 59th St & 8th Ave | Heckscher Playground, The Mall, ballfields |
| Grand Army Plaza | 59th St & 5th Ave | Central Park Zoo, The Pond, Gapstow Bridge |
| Merchants’ Gate | 59th St & Columbus Circle | Great Lawn, West Side walking paths |
🔍 FAQs: Getting to Central Park From Times Square
Q: How long does it take to walk from Times Square to Central Park?
It takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes on foot to reach Central Park South (59th Street) from Times Square (42nd Street).
Q: What subway goes from Times Square to Central Park?
The 1 train (uptown) from Times Square–42nd Street to 59th Street–Columbus Circle is the fastest subway option.
Q: Is there a direct train from Times Square to Central Park?
Yes. The 1, A, B, C, and D trains all stop near Central Park. Take any of them uptown to 59th Street or 66th Street.
Q: Can I bike from Times Square to Central Park?
Absolutely. Citi Bike offers an easy and eco-friendly ride. It’s about a 1-mile bike ride with docks on both ends.
📌 Summary: Best Ways to Get from Times Square to Central Park
| Transport Mode | Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subway | 5–7 minutes | $2.90 | Speed & cost-efficiency |
| Walking | 15–20 minutes | Free | Scenic Midtown experience |
| Taxi/Uber | 8–15 minutes | $8–$15 | Comfort, especially in groups |
| Citi Bike | 10–15 minutes | $4–$19 | Active travelers & locals |
🗽 Final Thoughts
Getting to Central Park from Times Square is incredibly easy, no matter your travel style. Whether you prefer the speed of the subway, a relaxing walk through Midtown, or a bike ride with skyline views, you’ll be surrounded by the greenery and beauty of Central Park in minutes.
Next stop: Bow Bridge, Bethesda Fountain, or Sheep Meadow? You’re already halfway there.