New York City is one of the most walkable cities in the world—but how far is Central Park from Times Square? If you’re planning a visit to the Big Apple and want to explore both of these iconic destinations, you’ll be happy to know that they’re conveniently close to one another. Whether you’re walking, biking, hopping on the subway, or taking a guided tour, getting from Times Square to Central Park is both quick and enjoyable.
Understanding the Distance
How far is Central Park from Times Square?
The southern edge of Central Park—located at 59th Street and 7th Avenue—is just about 0.5 miles (or roughly 0.8 kilometers) from the northern end of Times Square, depending on where you start. That’s about a 10- to 15-minute walk.
If you're entering Central Park near the famous Columbus Circle entrance, it's only a few blocks from the heart of Times Square—making it one of the easiest park visits you can add to your Manhattan itinerary.
Distance measurements: Miles vs. Kilometers
- Miles: Approximately 0.5–1.2 miles, depending on entry points
- Kilometers: Around 0.8–2 kilometers
- Walking steps: Between 1,000 and 2,500 steps based on your route and pace
Exploring the equivalent in steps
Fitness trackers often clock the walk at about 15–25 minutes and just under 3,000 steps—making it a manageable walk for most visitors. And if you prefer something a bit more relaxing, you can also hop into a pedicab tour of Central Park and even get dropped off near Times Square afterwards. It’s a unique way to explore the park and conveniently return to Midtown!
Traveling Options
Subway from Times Square to Central Park
The New York City subway is a fast and affordable way to travel. Closest train stations near Times Square are Times Sq–42 St located on 7th Ave and 42 St Bryant Park on 6th Ave.
From Times Sq–42nd Street Station, you can take:
- N, Q, or R trains to 57th Street-7th Avenue
- 1 train directly to 59th Street–Columbus Circle
From 42 St Bryant Park, you can take:
- F train to 57th Street
- B and D trains to 59th Street–Columbus Circle
Travel time: 5–10 minutes, plus transfer or walking time to the park entrance.
Biking from Times Square to Central Park
Biking is another fun option. Citi Bikes are available all over Midtown, and it takes about 5 minutes to bike from Times Square to the southern entrances of Central Park. There are dedicated bike lanes on 8th Avenue and 6th Avenue to make your ride safer.
Taxi or Rideshare: Convenience and Cost
A taxi or rideshare like Uber or Lyft can get you from Times Square to Central Park in around 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares typically range from $10–$20.
Central Park to Times Square Walking Routes
If you're in no rush, walking from Times Square to Central Park (or vice versa) is a great way to soak in the city. The most direct route is along 7th Avenue or 6th Avenue, taking you straight into the southern entrances of the park near the Ritz Carlton Hotel or Columbus Circle.
Central Park distance from Times Square
- Walking time: 10–25 minutes
- Biking time: 5–10 minutes
- Subway time: 5–8 minutes
- Cab time (non-rush): 5–10 minutes
Prefer not to walk?
Our Central Park Pedicab Tours offer an excellent alternative. You’ll get a fully guided, relaxing ride through the park with photo stops—and best of all, you can choose Times Square as your drop-off point afterward. Perfect for those who want to enjoy Central Park without the extra steps.
Scenic Routes and Highlights
Notable Landmarks Along the Walking Route
As you walk between Central Park and Times Square, you’ll pass many great locations such as:
- Carnegie Hall
- The Shops at Columbus Circle
- Broadway Theaters
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA, if you take 6th Avenue route)
Times Square to Central Park walking is relatively flat and enjoyable. Street performers, towering billboards, and sidewalk cafes fill your path as you transition from the energetic Times Square to the peaceful greenery of Central Park.
Suggested Stops: Coffee Shops and Attractions
Some great spots to check out along the way:
- Angelina Bakery on Broadway for a quick desert and caffeine hit
- Museum of Modern Art on 6th Avenue route
- Rockefeller Center on 6th Avenue route
- LOVE Sculpture on 6th Avenue (a photo favorite!)
- The Plaza Hotel for classic NYC vibes before entering the park
How far is Central Park Zoo from Times Square?
The Central Park Zoo is located just inside the park’s southeast corner, making it about 1.1 miles from Times Square. A quick 20-minute walk or 7-minute cab ride will get you there.
Central Park and Times Square are two must-see NYC icons—and they’re incredibly close. Whether you're walking, biking, taking the subway, or hopping into a guided tour, it's easy to include both in your day.
For a memorable and relaxing experience, consider our Pedicab Tours in Central Park. You’ll enjoy a scenic, fully guided ride through the park—complete with photo stops, fun facts, and the option to end your journey right in Times Square. It's sightseeing made easy.
Ready to explore? Central Park and Times Square are just steps—or pedals—apart.
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