7. Belvedere Castle
Pictured above is Belvedere Castle which was built to overlook the rectangular Croton Reservoir. In 1931, the reservoir was drained and the site developed into today’s Great Lawn. The castle itself was built in 1869 out of Manhattan schist, and designed by Central Park architects Frederick Law Olmstead and Calvert Vaux. The National Weather Service measures the official temperature in Central Park off the tower, which is the highest point in the park. Today, Belvedere Castle serves as a visitor’s center and gift shop, and programs are occasionally hosted there. Where to find it: Mid-Park from 79th to 85th Street.
Untapped Central Park Walking Tour
Next, check out The Top 10 Secrets of NYC’s Central Park and 10 Historic Ruins and Remnants Inside NYC’s Central Park. Get in touch with the author at Rachel Fawn Alban.