Central Park is not one park. It's six parks stacked on top of each other, and I use them all depending on what's going on in my head.
For decisions, the Bethesda Terrace. Something about the arcade ceiling makes you feel smaller, in a good way.
For heartbreak, the Shakespeare Garden. It's hidden, it's shaded, and nobody is filming a TikTok there.
For hangovers, the Great Lawn. You lie flat. You let the world spin. A dog finds you. It's fine.
For homesickness, the Reservoir. The loop is exactly long enough to call my mom back home.
For ideas, the Ramble. You will get lost. That is the point.
For joy, Sheep Meadow on a Saturday in June, when the city has emptied its living rooms onto the grass.
If you're new here, don't try to see the park in a day. Try to have a problem in it. See which corner gives you an answer.
Love,