PopUp New York: Central Park's Hidden Gems
Popes, presidents and rock stars have made historic appearances at Central Park, one of the world's most famous attractions. Tourists and locals alike flock to the Great Lawn, Bethesda Fountain and the Central Park Zoo. But real New Yorkers know where to find the hidden treasures - and now you can, too. Follow reporter Meagan Brauer of Pop Up New York for CBSNewYork as she takes you on a tour of the best hidden gems in Central Park.
See Also: NYC's Best Little Known Parks
Central Park Conservatory Garden
105th St & Fifth Ave
The Conservatory Garden offers a quiet oasis in the big city. The perfect spot for some quiet relaxation, the Garden can serve as the perfect hideout when you need some R&R, or a surprisingly quaint venue for a date.
Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre
79th Street, West Drive
(212) 988-9093
If you or your kids like fairy tales like Hansel and Gretel, you'll find a haven at the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre. Buy a ticket and enjoy an old school puppet show.
North Meadow Recreation Center
14 East 60th Street
New York, NY 10022-7122
(212) 348-4867
You can play handball, one of the city's most popular pastimes, at the North Meadow Recreation Center. The Center also loans out field day kits with balls, frisbees and jump ropes.
Belvedere Castle
79th Street, Mid-Park
You can take your prince or princess to see the Belvedere Castle. The lawn out front offers a prime spot for a picnic.
Cleopatra's Needle
One of the most historic sites in the park, Cleopatra's Needle, was commissioned by an Egyptian pharaoh in 1500 B.C.
