Central Park Horse Carriage Ride: NYC Landmarks & Hidden Gems

4.60

(15 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the quiet clip-clop of hooves echoing off the stone at Columbus Circle—oddly soothing for Manhattan. Our driver, Sam, greeted us with a grin and a thick New York accent, then helped us settle into the carriage’s soft bench. The air smelled faintly of roasted nuts from a nearby cart, and even though it was early spring, you could still see your breath if you laughed too hard.

We rolled past the Central Park Carousel—kids squealing as the horses spun round and round. Sam told us over 250,000 people ride it every year; I’d never realized how much history hid behind those painted ponies. Next came Wollman Rink, where skaters glided under strings of lights. If you time it right in winter, you’ll catch couples holding hands and teens daring each other to race across the ice.

Chess & Checkers House looked almost secretive tucked among the trees, its brick walls shaded by tangled branches. We paused near Balto’s statue—Sam shared how that little sled dog braved an Alaskan blizzard to deliver medicine back in 1925. There were fresh flowers at his paws; someone must’ve stopped by earlier that morning.

The carriage slowed at Bethesda Fountain. The Angel of the Waters stood tall above the pool, wings outstretched. Street musicians played “Imagine” nearby—a nod to Strawberry Fields just up ahead. That mosaic is always surrounded by quiet visitors or Beatles fans leaving roses and handwritten notes.

Bow Bridge really does look like something out of a movie—curved ironwork reflected in the water below. We saw a couple taking engagement photos there, laughing as pigeons strutted around their feet. By Cherry Hill Fountain, birds dipped in for a drink while our horse snorted softly, waiting for his treat (Sam keeps apple slices handy).

The ride wrapped up near Sheep Meadow where folks lounged on blankets and kids chased frisbees through patches of sunlight. It’s funny how peaceful Central Park feels from a carriage seat—you forget you’re smack in the middle of New York City until you hear a distant siren or catch a glimpse of skyscrapers between tree branches.