For locals summer doesn't officially start until the first picnic in Sheep Meadow. A sprawling meadow that spans 15 acres, this popular area swells with locals and tourists alike to the tune of 30,000 people during warm summer days. Tucked under the shadow of NYC's impressive (and looming) skyline, you'll find plenty of mature trees that offer welcome shade if you're looking for a relaxing afternoon. Local's Tip: Pop into Zabar's to stock up on your picnic essentials.

Central Park is home to more than 40 bridges, but the most photographed by far is the romantic Bow Bridge. The bridge gets its name from the shape of the arch which resembles an archer's bow. Built in 1862, the bridge spans 60 feet over the Lake, connecting Cherry Hill and the Ramble. Visitors flock to the area for the great views of Manhattan's skyline and to watch love-struck couples in row boats pepper the lake below.

Named after none other than William Shakespeare, the Shakespeare Garden is a 4-acre park full of fragrant spring flowers that bloom year-round. You'll find poetic plaques dotted among the blooms, an ode to Shakespeare. The garden’s curator makes it a point of pride to make the garden different every year, which means you're bound to see something new no matter how often you visit.

Home to the largest plantation of American elms in the world, The Mall is an iconic elm-lined promenade that offers ample shade (and benches) during hot summer days. Head towards the southern end of The Mall to the Literary Walk, where statues of notable literary figures line the path. This area is very popular with visitors and locals alike, park yourself on a bend for a few minutes and people-watch to your heart's content.

Completed in 1872, Belvedere Castle sits high atop a hill on a large rock outcropping known as Vista Rock -- which happens to be the second-highest point in the park. The castle gets its name from the Italian word for "beautiful view," Belvedere. The high vantage point and well-kept terraces offer sweeping panoramic views of New York City's iconic skyline, which take on a magical glow during sunset.

Those looking for romantic things to do in Central Park can't afford to overlook this one. Rent a rowboat and serenade your special someone amidst the spring blooms or fall leaves while admiring the dramatic New York skyline from the famous 20-acre lake in Central Park. The best part? Boat rentals are reasonably priced at $25 per hour (cash only). Afterwards, swing by the cafe for some delicious fare while people-watching from the outdoor terrace.

Opened in 1937, the Conservatory Garden is the only formal garden in Central Park. Spanning six acres, the garden is sectioned off into three beautiful gardens-- the French North Garden, Italian Center Garden and English South Garden. Located in the north end of the park (the nearest subway stop is West 103rd Street and Central Park North from the east side). Less visited than other parts of Central Park, the gardens burst with incredible flowers every spring and fall.

Strawberry Fields was intended to be a spot for peaceful reflection in honor of John Lennon -- who lived across the street in the impressive Dakota building. The most prominent feature of Strawberry Fields is the Imagine Mosaic which is often adorned with flowers and serenaded by live musicians playing famous Beatles songs. This mosaic was designed by Yoko Ono (Lennon's widow), and gifted to New York City by the city of Naples. This is a very popular spot in the park, so expect crowds.

The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is more commonly known as the Central Park Reservoir, or simply Reservoir. A decommissioned reservoir located between 86th and 96th Streets (covering 10 city blocks), it holds more than one billion gallons of water. The 1.5-mile loop around the Reservoir is a very popular running and walking track for locals, stretch your legs before or after lunch to see what all the fuss is about.