Insider's Guide to

Major attractions, tips and our top things to see and do.

New York City
Things To Do

Recommended

Get the
Inside Scoop

Questions?
Need a Hug?

Click Here or Call
(888) 651-9785

14 Photos | Add your photo

Explore map

91 Reviews

Add your review

ATTRACTIONS See all

Bethesda Fountain

Located in Central Park on the lower level of Bethesda Terrace, Bethesda Fountain, or “Angel of the Waters,” features a neoclassical eight-foot-bronze angel holding a lily on top of a tiered fountain. Bethesda Fountain is considered not only one of the most beautiful fountains in New York, but also in the world. It is one of the city’s largest fountains, at twenty-six feet high by ninety-six feet wide. The angel, designed by Emma Stebbins, was the only sculpture commissioned as park of Central Park’s original design. During the initial stages of Central Park’s planning, the idea was to create a welcoming “open-air hall of reception” where visitors could enjoy views from a terrace overlooking the lake. They also wanted something that blended in with the surrounding nature, which was to be the focus of the park. Bethesda Fountain was a fitting choice then, and still is today. Additionally, when the Croton Aqueduct was opened in 1842 to bring fresh water to New York City, Bethesda Fountain was used to commemorate this purification, which is why the angel carries in her outstretched hand a lily, the symbol of purity. She also stands about four small cherubim, which symbolize peace, health, purity and temperance.

You can view Bethesda Fountain from 6am to 1am. To get to Bethesda Fountain by subway on the West Side take the A, B, C, D lines to 72nd Street. If traveling on the East Side, take the 4, 5, 6 lines to 68th Street.

Tours & Tickets

See all

Small-Group Central Park Bike Tour

3 Reviews

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through beautiful Central Park! Relax as you follow your guide on a 2-hour ride past both famous and lesser-known sites including ... Read more

Location: New York City, New York
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

From USD $39.99

Small-Group Photography Walking Tour of NYC

4 Reviews

Join a professional photographer on this New York City photography tour for a one-of-kind experience you’ll never forget! Each photography workshop focuses on ... Read more

Location: New York City, New York
Duration: Varies

From USD $100.00

Central Park Movie Sites Walking Tour

49 Reviews

Visit more than 30 movie locations in Central Park on this walking tour, perfect for film buffs and first-time visitors alike. Visit the Wollman Rink, the Bow ... Read more

Location: New York City, New York
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

From USD $21.60

$24.00 Save $2.40

Hudson River Park Greenway and Central Park Bike Tour

35 Reviews

Join a fabulous New York City bike ride along the Hudson River Park Greenway and through Central Park. Enjoy spectacular views of the river and city skyline as ... Read more

Location: New York City, New York
Duration: 2 - 3 hours

From USD $42.00

$54.44 Save $12.44

See all Bethesda Fountain Tours & Tickets

Bethesda Fountain

Tours & Tickets

Small-Group Central Park Bike Tour

Small-Group Photography Walking Tour of NYC

Central Park Movie Sites Walking Tour

Hudson River Park Greenway and Central Park Bike Tour

Support

Company

Partnerships

Sites

Social

Mobile

Find your next activity!

Top destinations