Bryant Park, a delightful urban sanctuary

New York’s renowned Bryant Park has the distinction of being one of the city’s most beautiful and popular recreational areas. With its lush green lawns, gardens, urban amenities and historical monuments it is not surprising that the park attracts a multitude of locals as well as visitors to the city.

An oasis of calm and tranquility, many people frequent the park to socialize, have lunch, listen to some relaxing music, take a leisurely stroll, conduct their working duties on the wireless network or just rest and replenish their energies. Alongside the southern and northern borders of the park you will see twin promenades lined with London plane trees, the same variety to be seen at Paris’ Jardin des Tuileries. These features give the grounds a genuine European ambience.

Another attractive aspect are the six beds of flowers, with three located in the sunny northern section and two in the more shady southern side. These gardens are planted according to the season with no less than 20,000 bulbs and 100 varieties of woody shrubs. Meanwhile the expansive lawn, 300 feet long and 215 wide, is planted with a special variety of turf and attracts a multitude of office workers who gather for lunch.

One of the most appealing features of the park is ‘Le Carrousel’, a unique merry-go-round which is very popular with children. Perfectly complementing the classical French theme of the park, Le Carrousel demonstrates both American and European design features. Fourteen charming animals revolve to the strains of French style cabaret music.

To replenish your energies visit the Bryant Park Grill, which offers modern American-themed dining with rooftop and patio dining offering spectacular views of the grounds. Also worth sampling is the Bryant Park Café which offers a more casual dining experience with an attractive menu and well-stocked bar.

Should you fancy some recreational action, there are table tennis tables and the opportunity to try out unusual games like Petanque, a French game and such pastimes as Quoits and Kubb, a game originating from Scandinavia. Chess, backgammon, checkers and Chinese chess are other options available.

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