Perfectly positioned at the edge of Central Park and Fifth Avenue, The Sherry-Netherland places some of New York City’s most sought-after attractions, acclaimed restaurants and luxury experiences just a short stroll away. If you’re looking for things to do near Central Park in New York, you can spend the morning surrounded by art and culture, the afternoon shopping along Fifth Avenue and the evening enjoying MICHELIN-starred cuisine or live jazz — all without hailing a cab.

Grand Army Plaza

1-minute walk 

The moment you step outside The Sherry-Netherland, you’re greeted by the elegance of Grand Army Plaza. Inspired by Europe’s public spaces, this historical plaza welcomes visitors to Central Park with the Pulitzer Fountain’s cascading water to the south and the gilded, 24-foot-tall statue of Civil War Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman on horseback to the north. Before setting out to explore more things to do near Central Park or embarking on a guided Central Park walking tour, take a moment to admire the architecture, monuments and thoughtful design that have characterized this gathering place for more than a century.

Bergdorf Goodman

2-minute walk 

Right across Fifth Avenue, one of the city’s best window shopping streets, Bergdorf Goodman remains the undisputed temple of Manhattan high fashion. Housed on the former site of the Vanderbilt Gilded Age palace, the high-end department store offers nine floors of designer salons, rare accessories and personal styling services. Admire the intricate window displays, browse runway-fresh arrivals or linger at a long lunch overlooking Central Park at BG Restaurant.

The Paris Theater

2-minute walk 

As New York City’s longest-running arthouse cinema, the Paris Theater delivers a rare moviegoing outing wrapped in sleek Art Moderne style. Originally opened in 1948 and now operated by Netflix, the theater hosts a curated mix of independent films, international releases and nostalgic throwbacks — ranging from cult classics to black-and-white masterpieces. Screenings open with a personal introduction, while the concession stand pairs French pastries and espresso alongside your go-to film snacks.

Tiffany & Co. Landmark & The Blue Box Café

3-minute walk 

Few New York addresses are as iconic as Tiffany’s Fifth Avenue flagship, known simply as The Landmark. Wander through the sparkling jewelry galleries in search of a gift for someone special — or a keepsake for yourself — before settling into The Blue Box Café. Inspired by “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” Chef Daniel Boulud’s French-accented cuisine ranges from perfectly crisp croissants to eggs topped with caviar. Or sip your way through afternoon tea, a fitting tribute to the timeless glamour of Audrey Hepburn, complete with savory lobster rolls and chocolate-covered madeleines.

The Dior Spa

5-minute walk 

Hidden on the top floor of the House of Dior flagship, Dior Spa New York is the brand’s first permanent U.S. wellness space. Pair French luxury with precision skincare, starting with a high-tech Dior Measurements skin analysis before tailoring a treatment of cold lasers, oxygen infusions or light-therapy rituals. Enveloped in custom Francis Kurkdjian scents and weighted blankets, exhale at this world-class retreat just steps from the hotel. 

The Jazz Club

5-minute walk 

Nothing captures the spirit of New York City quite like a walking bassline in B-flat major and a sultry vocalist improvising late into the night. Tucked behind a discreet entrance with speakeasy charm, The Jazz Club is an intimate subterranean lounge serving artisanal cocktails and elevated small plates. With velvet seating, moody lighting and a “dress with intention” ethos, it’s one of Midtown’s most magnetic nightlife spots. Reservations required.

The Pond & Gapstow Bridge

6-minute walk 

Step outside of the hotel and into a scene straight out of a classic romance at Central Park’s southern edge. Framing the tranquil waters of The Pond reflecting the Manhattan skyline, Gapstow Bridge is one of the park’s most postcard-worthy vantage points. Standing here since 1896, this stone masterpiece was crafted to harmonize perfectly with the natural parkland. Walk across its historical arches, listen to the gentle rustle of the trees, watch for ducks gliding across the water, and exhale in an idyllic pocket of New York history that feels worlds away from the city streets.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

10-minute walk 

Lose yourself among Georgia O’Keeffe’s radiant blooms, Claude Monet’s shimmering water lilies and Andy Warhol’s bold pop art as you wander through MoMA’s sprawling, six-floor gallery spaces. Between staring down Pablo Picasso’s cubist masterpieces, admiring Frida Kahlo’s evocative self-portraits and eating at one of the museum’s five places for a meal, snack or drink (including The Modern, the museum’s two-MICHELIN-starred restaurant), this titan of contemporary culture easily turns a morning excursion into an all-day affair.

Madison Avenue

4-minute walk 

Just one block from The Sherry-Netherland, Madison Avenue is one of the world’s most famous shopping corridors. Explore an extraordinary stretch of couture, fine jewelry and haute horlogerie, where fashion houses like Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera share the avenue with historic jewelers like Van Cleef & Arpels. Browse for your next family heirloom or cocktail dress, then pause to admire the historic Rhinelander Mansion, home to Ralph Lauren’s iconic flagship. Along Madison Avenue, every storefront reflects exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design.

Aquavit Restaurant

8-minute walk 

Watch two-Michelin-starred artistry unfold in real time at Aquavit, where Chef Emma Bengtsson’s open kitchen anchors a sleek, Scandinavian dining room. The multi-course Chef’s tasting menu treats pristine Nordic ingredients as both palette and canvas — culminating in signature creations like the arctic bird’s nest. Crafted from goat cheese parfait, sea buckthorn curd and blueberry sorbet, it arrives at the table like a delicate sculpture worthy of a spot in MoMA. Reservations highly recommended. 

Stay Steps from Central Park

After a day spent enjoying the best things to do near Central Park in New York, unwind in the comfort of our elegant rooms and suites, and take in the timeless city views that make every stay truly memorable.