Horse carriage rides have been part of Central Park since 1858. When the park was first designed, it was meant to be enjoyed slowly, and many of its paths and views were created with horse carriages in mind. Long before cars became common in New York, riding through the park by carriage was one of the most popular ways to experience it.
In 1862, the New York City Council decided that carriage drivers would line up at 59th Street and 7th Avenue to wait for passengers. More than 160 years later, this is still where carriage rides begin today, making it one of the city’s longest-standing traditions.
Over the years, visitors from all over the world have enjoyed carriage rides through Central Park, passing famous landmarks such as The Plaza Hotel, Balto’s Statue, and other well known sights. For many tourists, a horse carriage ride became a memorable part of their New York experience.
Even as cars replaced horse drawn transportation in most parts of the world, horse carriages continued to operate in Central Park. They remained as a link to the city’s past and a reminder of a quieter, more romantic time in New York’s history.
Today, horse carriage rides are still enjoyed by couples, families, and visitors of all ages. They continue to be a timeless way to experience Central Park and will always hold a special place in the story of New York City.