Bryant Park

What to know

Bryant Park is a 9.6-acre privately managed public park located in Midtown Manhattan, spanning the area between Fifth and Sixth Avenues and 40th and 42nd Streets. While owned by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, the park is managed by the private not-for-profit Bryant Park Corporation, which was founded in 1980 to lead its restoration. The eastern half of the park is occupied by the Main Branch of the New York Public Library, specifically the Stephen A. Schwarzman building. This proximity creates a blend of literary sanctuary and urban activity. The park is often described as Midtown Manhattan's town square, acting as a centrally located hub for residents and tourists alike. Throughout the year, the park transforms to offer seasonal experiences. In winter, the Bank of America Winter Village arrives, featuring New York City's only free-admission ice skating rink, a pop-up rinkside bar, and a food hall. During the summer, the park hosts free movies on the lawn, which is open for evening hours from 5pm to 9pm. For those seeking a quieter moment, the Reading Room is open daily from 11am to 7pm. The park also features European-inspired Holiday Shops curated by Urbanspace, where artisans from New York City and around the world display their wares in custom-designed jewel box kiosks located along the park's allées, plazas, and terraces.

Visitor tips

• Visit the Reading Room between 11am and 7pm for a quiet break.
• If visiting during winter, take advantage of the free-admission ice skating rink.
• Check the event calendar for free summer movies on the lawn, which is open from 5pm to 9pm.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Bryant Park is just blocks from Times Square and the theater district, making it a perfect refuge from the crowds of those nearby attractions.