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Bethesda Terrace and Fountain

Known as the heart of Central Park, this sandstone masterpiece features a grand two-level plaza, an ornate arcade, and the iconic Angel of the Waters bronze statue overlooking the Lake.

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Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
www.centralparknyc.org, og_image_www.centralparknyc.org

Where is Bethesda Terrace and Fountain located?

It is located mid-park at 72nd Street in Manhattan, New York City, at the north end of the Mall and overlooking the Lake and the Ramble.

What are the hours for Bethesda Terrace?

The terrace is open daily from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM during the late-March season.

What is the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain known for?

Widely described as the heart of Central Park, it is known for its sandstone architecture, intricate carvings of the seasons and times of day, and the iconic Angel of the Waters bronze statue.

What is the significance of the Angel of the Waters statue?

The statue commemorates the 1842 opening of the Croton Aqueduct, which brought a fresh water system to New York City; the angel holds a lily to symbolize this fresh water.

Who designed the terrace and the fountain?

The terrace was built by Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted, while the fountain was created by artist Emma Stebbins.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, located mid-park at 72nd Street, is widely regarded as the heart of Central Park. Designed by Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted, the terrace is a sandstone structure that seamlessly weaves architecture into the surrounding landscape. Construction on the terrace began in 1859 and was completed in 1863, creating a gathering space that consists of two levels, an arcade, and a fountain. The architectural detail is exceptional, particularly within the arcade, which features the only ceiling in the world showcasing Minton tiles. Visitors can also admire intricate carvings on the terrace that depict the four seasons and the times of day. Benches are built directly into the sandstone walls, providing a perfect spot for people-watching and relaxing while overlooking the Ramble and the Lake. At the center of the plaza stands the Bethesda Fountain, one of the largest in New York, measuring 26 feet high by 96 feet wide. Created by artist Emma Stebbins in 1868 and dedicated on May 31, 1873, the fountain features a large circular pool and a two-tiered basin. This basin serves as a pedestal for the bronze statue known as the Angel of the Waters. The Angel of the Waters holds a lily, which symbolizes the fresh water system brought to New York City in 1842 via the Croton Aqueduct. This iconic site has become a favorite for filmmakers and television producers, appearing in numerous movies and TV shows over the decades.

Visitor tips

  • Visit between 6:30 AM and 9:00 PM to explore the terrace and arcade.
  • Walk under the arcade ceiling to see the rare Minton tiles.
  • Allow extra time for photography, as the fountain is one of the park's most popular focal points.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site is located at the north end of the long, tree-lined Mall promenade.

Nearby context

The terrace is situated at the north end of the Mall, a famous tree-lined promenade. It serves as a gateway between the structured paths of the Mall and the more natural, wild landscapes of the Ramble and the Lake.

Sources

Evidence and links