Famous and Most Picturesque Bridges of Central Park NYC
Over the years, Central Park in New York has become known for a lot of things. It’s been featured in roughly 140 different movies over the years as well as being used in a number of TV shows. This 843 square mile oasis in the midst of one of the busiest cities in America is host to miles of footpaths, carriageways, and bridle paths along with a total of 36 bridges and 7 bodies of water. Some of these bridges have become famous examples of the beauty and grandeur that is Central Park.
Bow Bridge
One of the most famous bridges in the park is the Bow Bridge near 74th street west. The first cast iron bridge built in the park, Bow Bridge stands as the second oldest bridge in America. It got its name because its graceful shape is similar to that of an archer’s bow or violinist’s bow, and its 60 foot length connects the wooded Ramble to Cherry Hill. This bridge has become one of the most romantic spots in the park and continues to be a great source of inspiration for artists and photographers.
Gapstow Bridge
Another of the most photographed bridges is Gapstow Bridge on the East side at 62nd street. This beautiful stone bridge was rebuilt in 1896 by Howard and Cauldwell after the first bridge on this site became to worn down to be useable. Made of Manhattan schist, this 76 foot bridge is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Those standing on the bridge are afforded a beautiful view of Wollman Rink, the Plaza Hotel, and the skyline of the Upper West Side. It’s served as the backdrop for a number of touching scenes in popular TV shows and movies.
Terrace Bridge
One of the most iconic bridges in all of Central Park is the Terrace Bridge at 72nd Street Cross Drive. Its beauty and grandeur were designed to be the heart of the park, and it stands as one of the first structures to be built in Central Park. Its design was inspired by the Palace of Versailles, and its upper and lower terraces are connected by two beautiful staircases with a smaller staircase that leads to the Mall. Construction began on the Terrace in 1859 and continued through the Civil War to be completed in 1863. Today, it stands as a central meeting place in the park and has played a part in a number of movies.
Gothic Bridge
Originally only known as a number among the many bridges of Central Park, Gothic Bridge stands as one of the most elegant and beautiful bridges in the park. One of three cast iron bridges around the Reservoir, it was erected by the north gatehouse at 94th street as a way of allowing visitors to avoid crossing the bridle path. The name comes from the design of the bridges spandrels that were designed to look like elegantly curved gothic windows. These spandrels along with its oval vault make it one of the most distinctive bridges in Central Park. It’s been the focus of some stunning works of art by amateur and famous photographers alike.
These are just some of the many picturesque and famous bridges in New York’s Central Park, and the many bridges and arches within the park make up a fraction of the beauty of the park itself. It’s that same beauty that have made these bridges along with others the focus of art and inspiration for a great many visitors as well as being the settings for some of the most romantic scenes in movie history.
