5 Statues To Visit While Running In NYC’s Central Park
Whether you're in town for the TCS NYC Marathon or just visiting, these are the statues to look out for while running through Central Park.
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Whether you happen to be in town for the largest marathon of the year or are simply in New York coincidentally, there are many fun things to do in the city this time of year–especially for runners. Running in Central Park is for many out-of-towners a major bucket list item. When you’re lacing up to hit the park trails, make sure to look out for these historic statues.
Balto
For those unfamiliar, Balto was a sled dog that led a team through Alaska in 1925 on an emergency mission to deliver vaccines to a hospital, where locals were facing an outbreak of diphtheria. The statue designed in Balto’s honor stands in Central Park East, not far from the Central Park Zoo.
Fred Lebow
One of the New York Road Runners’ founding members, the late Fred Lebow, is commemorated in this statue along the Bridle Path beside the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, not far from the Guggenheim Museum. During the first weekend of every November, Fred’s likeness is moved to an even more fitting location for race day: right by the finish line near 67th Street in Central Park.
Strawberry Fields
Though it’s not a statue, this memorial was created in the memory of three monumental forces: the late John Lennon, who was fatally shot in front of the Dakota across the street; the Beatles; and to the hope that both musician and group delivered to the world through their music. Musicians congregate around the “Imagine” mosaic laid into the park floor while playing songs by the Beatles and John Lennon all day long.
Alice In Wonderland
Fall down the rabbit hole–or, at the very least, admire this statue of the girl who did. This artwork is large enough for children to pose with and climb–and many do. Located near the Loeb Boathouse by 75th Street, Alice, the Mad Hatter and the White Rabbit offer a sharp contrast to the city streets just outside the park.
Bethesda Fountain
This fountain is beloved by New Yorkers much in the way the Trevi Fountain is adored by Romans. Stop along the fountain’s edge to snap a picture, or wish upon a penny–just make sure you tag #TeamWR when you post your NYC photos on Instagram!
Related:
Free NYC Activities During Marathon Weekend