The Pond, New York, NY 10021, US

Central Park's urban oasis draws millions of visitors, and there's plenty of space for all to spread out a blanket and enjoy a lazy afternoon picnic. Nature lovers can spot birds along the quiet woodland trails, and sports enthusiasts will find something to do in every season: ice skating and cross country skiing in the winter, yoga and swimming in the summer, and jogging and biking no matter what the weather happens to be. When the warm months descend upon the city, Central Park hosts free concerts, movies at dusk, and world-renowned plays.Parking and public transportation at Central ParkLocated in the heart of New York City, Central Park is easy to access by car, public transportation, or bicycle. If riding a bike inside the park, be sure to stick to designated bike paths and obey the street crossings. Metered parking spots are available on the streets surrounding the park, but empty spaces are hard to come by.Best and worst time to go to Central ParkThe most picturesque time of year is early spring, especially when the cherry blossoms scattered throughout the park begin to bloom, usually in mid to late April. March brings soggy grounds and unpredictable weather, and features the park at its least colorful.Admission to Central ParkAdmission is free. Certain attractions within the park charge a fee, such as the zoo, the carousel, ice skating, and boat rentals.Must see/do in Central ParkVisitors to the Lake have a lot of options. They can lounge on its banks while watching rowboats glide under the lovely arched Bow Bridge, wander the paths that wind around it, or kick back with a cold drink at the lakefront Loeb Boathouse. For stunning park views, follow the Ramble to Belvedere Castle, which also doubles as one of the park's visitor centers. Bethesda Terrace is a lively plaza where street performers and artists hang out. It's also home to Bethesda Fountain, a neoclassical wonder of a sculpture, also known as Angel of the Waters.Other places to visit near Central Park Because Central Park spans 843 acres, you can end up in various parts of the city depending on where you exit. Some of the city's most famous museums are located on Museum Mile, which stretches along the eastern border of the park on Fifth Avenue. Those who exit at 59th Street and Fifth Avenue will be in front of the Plaza Hotel, whose Food Hall has a delectable choice of gourmet eateries. To take the path less travelled, head toward the Harlem exit at 110th Street, and you'll find yourself at the lower tip of one of New York's most vibrantly historical neighborhoods.Insider tip for visitors to Central ParkThe only difficult thing about Central Park is keeping up with all the events, so do a little research before you go. Chances are, there's something special going on when you go, whether it's tango lessons at the Shakespeare statue, a roller disco party with a live DJ, or a free Metropolitan Opera concert. Two good websites to keep up on the park's events are http://www.centralpark.com/ and http://www.nycgo.com/Author's bio: Michele DeBella is a freelance writer in New York City, where she vows to stay until she stops getting lost in Central Park. Follow her on Twitter @MicheleDeBella.