central park

Perhaps because of the shade-giving trees, or perhaps because there are just fewer heat-creating buildings, Central Park often feels cooler than the rest of the city. Saturday was sunny, warm, and humid, so we decided that exploring the more comfortable wilds of the park would be a fun way to spend the day. So we topped Garrett off with a dose of Benedryl to combat the allergy symptoms we knew were inevitable, what with being outside among greenery and blossoms and all, and we jumped on the first train out of Brooklyn.

First we took Garrett to ride the carousel, where, despite this being his first ride, he knew exactly what to do. He held onto the pole with two tight hands and didn't let go until it was over.

Here are some carousel factoids for you: A carousel has been in operation on this site of the park since 1871. These particular horses, however, are the third group to ride here, the first two having burned down. They originally belonged to Coney Island, but have been circling here since 1951. According to park legend, the very first carousel was powered by a blind horse and mule.

We then found our way to Central Park Zoo.


It's a small zoo, but that didn't make it any less worth seeing. The seals were playful, as were the polar bears. The penguins were entertaining to watch as they waddled and tripped into the water for a swim where they chased each other around like black and white bullets. Tropical birds swooped overhead in the rain forest exhibit, and I've never seen so many turtles lounging on logs in the sun in my life.

watching the seals with Dad

hanging out next to the snow monkey exhibit with Mama

Next it was off to the Conservatory Water to watch the radio controlled model sailboats paddle through the pond.


By this time Garrett had fallen asleep in the stroller, and we were warm and tired as well, so we started to head back to the train. The walk was pleasantly cool, though, so we took our time and stopped at this great little juice bar on Lexington Avenue for the most delicious smoothies I've ever had. Think blueberries and strawberries mixed in a raspberry sorbet with apple juice, and then start drooling.

Just a few blocks away from the subway and we were pelted with a sudden thunderstorm. We made a mad dash for the protection of the underground, but that didn't keep us from getting soaked. Luckily, it also didn't keep us from giving two thumbs up to a summer Saturday spent outside. There's always more to see and do in Central Park, especially in the summer, so I'm sure we'll be back again soon.