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Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

A massive 106-acre man-made lake in Central Park, renowned for its 1.58-mile jogging track and stunning panoramic skyline views of Manhattan.

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What is the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir known for?

It is best known for its 1.58-mile running track and panoramic views of the city skyline. It is also a habitat for birds such as egrets, ducks, and loons.

How much does it cost to visit?

Visiting the reservoir is free.

What are the hours?

The reservoir is open daily, year-round, from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m., following the hours of Central Park.

Where is it located?

It is located in Central Park between 86th and 96th Streets, with the main entrance at 90th Street and 5th Avenue.

Why was it named after Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis?

It was renamed in 1994 to honor her contributions to the city and because she used to jog there. Additionally, part of the jogging trail passes beneath the windows of her former Fifth Avenue apartment.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is a sprawling 106-acre water body located mid-park between 86th and 96th Streets. It was constructed between 1858 and 1862 as a critical component of the Croton Aqueduct project, designed to bring fresh drinking water to the growing city of New York. The reservoir is 40 feet deep and holds over a billion gallons of water, covering approximately one-eighth of the total area of Central Park. In 1993, the reservoir was decommissioned from the city's drinking water supply system. It was officially renamed in 1994 in honor of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, a former first lady and local resident who frequently jogged along its banks. Part of the surrounding jogging trail now passes directly beneath the windows of her former Fifth Avenue apartment, adding a personal connection to the site's history. Today, the site is managed by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection. Visitors can enjoy a recently resurfaced 1.58-mile track that offers panoramic views of the city skyline. The water is also a vital habitat for various bird species, including loons, ducks, and egrets. Architectural details like the three adjacent gatehouses, which historically housed operator functions, remain as remnants of its industrial own past. Scenic enhancements, such as a floating fountain restored by the Central Park Conservancy in 2009, add to the visual appeal of the destination. The reservoir serves as a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle, combining industrial history with natural beauty and active recreation.

Visitor tips

  • Enter the reservoir area via the main entrance at 90th Street and 5th Avenue.
  • The reservoir is open daily from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. when Central Park is open.
  • Wear comfortable walking or running shoes as the 1.58-mile track is the primary way to experience the site.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching to spot loons, ducks, and egrets.

Nearby context

Located in the upper mid-section of Central Park, the reservoir is a centerpiece of the Mall and the northern reaches of the park's landscape, providing a massive open space between 86th and 96th Streets.

Sources

Evidence and links