Did you know the first tree was planted in Central Park on October 17, 1858? These days, the Park is home to more than 170 species of trees — visit our newly updated Tree Guide to learn more about some of your favorites. Our Tree Guide features photos, fun facts, and details on where to spot different species in the Park.

From sugar maple to sweetgum, many of Central Park’s roughly 20,000 trees feature vibrant fall foliage. In appreciation of this photogenic time of year, Conservancy arborist Alan Clark tells us which of the Park’s trees to look for this autumn. You’ll discover where to find a three-trunked black tupelo and learn which trees have needles that even change color in the fall.

Each summer, the Conservancy provides 20 college students with paid, full-time internships in Central Park. Stephen McConkey, the Conservancy’s Film and Special Events Coordinator, shares how this internship program helped him gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for urban park management.

Learn the story of Central Park’s history, design, and ecology on an official tour — now offered in two more languages! Discover how rocky, swampy land was transformed into Central Park on our signature tour, newly available in Español and Français. Our tour of the North Woods, the Park’s largest woodland, is also now offered in Español. Don't forget: members receive discounted tickets.

Safari Playground’s beloved hippopotamus sculptures were created by Bob Cassilly, artist and founder of the City Museum in St. Louis, in 1997. As part of the playground’s reconstruction, these iconic sculptures will be replicated and replaced. Discover how the Conservancy returned the original hippos to their Midwestern home in this heartwarming story.