What is the Hallett Nature Sanctuary?

The Hallett Nature Sanctuary is a four-acre woodland on a hill located in the southeastern corner of Central Park in Manhattan. It is the smallest of the park's three woodlands and is known as Central Park's "secret garden."

What is it known for?

The sanctuary is a significant birding stopover on the Atlantic Flyway, where visitors can witness up to 210 species of migrating birds. It is also praised for providing a secluded, nature-immersive experience that feels like being in Upstate New York.

The sanctuary is normally closed and only open to the public during limited hours. Regular visitor hours began in 2016, with access sometimes granted during middays.

Visitors can explore the sanctuary along rustic trails that lead to various overlooks and sitting areas near the shore of the Pond. Birdwatching is one of the highlights of the area.

What is the history of the sanctuary?

Originally called "The Promontory," the area was closed off in 1934 by Robert Moses as a bird sanctuary. It remained closed to the public for nearly a century until it reopened in 2016 following a major restoration by the Central Park Conservancy.

What should I check before going?

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

Hallett Nature Sanctuary in New York City

Hallett Nature Sanctuary

A secluded four-acre woodland in southeastern Central Park, this former bird sanctuary remained closed to the public for decades before reopening as a peaceful, nature-immersive escape.

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What to know

Hallett Nature Sanctuary is a four-acre woodland situated on a hill in the southeastern corner of Central Park. It is the smallest of the park's three woodlands, offering an intimate experience of nature and scenic views of the Pond below. Rustic trails wind up and down the hill, leading to overlooks and sitting areas near the shore of the Pond. Originally called The Promontory, the rocky hill lacked walking paths and was not accessible to visitors in its early years. In 1934, NYC Parks Commissioner Robert Moses fenced off the area and designated it as a bird sanctuary intended to remain undisturbed and unmaintained. For nearly 70 years, the site remained largely untouched and closed to the public. The area was renamed the Hallett Nature Sanctuary in 1986 to honor George Hervey Hallett Jr., an activist, nature enthusiast, and birder. After years of only occasional access for school groups, the Central Park Conservancy completed a major restoration project in 2016. This restoration allowed the sanctuary to begin scheduling regular visitor hours for the first time. Today, the sanctuary is promoted as Central Park's 'secret garden,' providing a quiet spot that feels like Upstate New York despite being just steps away from bustling Fifth Avenue. It serves as a critical birding stopover on the Atlantic Flyway, where visitors can witness up to 210 different species of migrating birds.

Visitor tips

Check the Central Park Conservancy website for current limited visitor hours, as the sanctuary is normally closed.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the site is a key stopover on the Atlantic Flyway with up to 210 species.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the rustic trails that wind up and down the hill.
Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Gapstow Bridge and the Pond.

Nearby context

The sanctuary is located in the south end of Central Park, connected to the Pond and situated near the iconic Gapstow Bridge, creating a cluster of scenic, nature-focused spots.

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