News 12 is exploring three hidden gems to visit in Central Park with the family this fall.
Spanning a whopping 843 acres, Central Park stretches all the way from 59th Street to 110th Street and Central Park West to Fifth Avenue with so much to see and do. It's the perfect family escape as the leaves start to change.
"Central Park is a phenomenal place to visit in the fall because we have such a variety of landscapes that really bring out the exciting aspects of the season," says Kaitlin Holt, associate director for the Central Park Conservancy.
Whether you're into running, hiking, bird-watching or simply soaking up nature in the heart of the city, Holt says you can't miss the 40-acre north woods designed to imitate the Catskill and Adirondack mountains. That way, you can enjoy a respite from city life without having to travel.
"It's a phenomenal place to stumble across wildlife."
Next, make your way to the Conservatory Garden, home to French, Italian and English gardens.
Finally, head to the south end of the park for a visit to the tucked away Hallett Nature Sanctuary in the shadow of the city's skyscrapers.
Parents can also pick up journals for their kids throughout the park at all of these locations for kids to draw and write about what they discovered.
"It's now actually one of the best places to see over 200 species of birds that migrate from the north to the south every year," adds Holt. "Also, it has these amazing scenic outlooks and overviews of the park."
Guided tours are also offered in these locations and throughout the park every week.