William Shakespeare Statue
1 / 10

William Shakespeare Statue

4.7
·64 reviews·New York, United States

A majestic bronze tribute to the world's greatest playwright, set amidst the iconic beauty of Central Park's Literary Walk.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
William Shakespeare Statue

William Shakespeare Statue

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A majestic bronze tribute to the world's greatest playwright, set amidst the iconic beauty of Central Park's Literary Walk.

4.7
(64 reviews)

"Found this beautiful statue of Shakespeare in the circle at the bottom of The Mall."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the statue with The Mall's grand promenade in the background for an iconic shot.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Literary Walk

Don't just see the statue; wander the Literary Walk and discover other famous writers nearby.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Shakespeare Statue

The Shakespeare Statue

Central Park, near The Mall

A majestic bronze tribute to the world's greatest playwright, set amidst the beauty of Central Park.

The Mall and Literary Walk

The Mall and Literary Walk

Central Park

Stroll down this iconic tree-lined promenade, dotted with statues of literary figures, leading to the Shakespeare statue.

Shakespeare in the Park

Shakespeare in the Park

Delacorte Theater, Central Park

Experience free, world-class Shakespearean plays performed live during the summer months.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Locate the Bard

The William Shakespeare statue is a prominent landmark in Central Park, often found near The Mall. It's a popular spot for photos and a great starting point for exploring the park's historic statues. Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture the best light.

Beyond the Statue

While the statue is a must-see, remember it's part of Central Park's rich tapestry. Consider combining your visit with other attractions like Bethesda Terrace or Strawberry Fields. Check for 'Shakespeare in the Park' performances if visiting during summer for a truly immersive experience.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
For 'Shakespeare in the Park'
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#greenscreen
@danaschwartzzz
3.4K likes • 24K views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the statue with The Mall's grand promenade in the background for an iconic shot. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Literary Walk

Don't just see the statue; wander the Literary Walk and discover other famous writers nearby. Reddit

Roasting statues in New York City with @jturner3000 🎤 this one featuring Shakespeare, Beethoven and more #interview #manonthestreet #history #roast #questions #newyork #comedyvideo #foryoupagee #explorepage✨
@anthony.santino
22.7K likes • 185.1K views
William Shakespeare first folio. I cannot believe I found this absolute treasure in New York #booktok #traveltiktok #newyorkcity #NewYork #newyorkpubliclibrary #williamshakespeare #rarebooks #shakespearefirstfolio #classicbooks
@cyanslibrary
35 likes • 405 views

🎭 Free Summer Theater

Check the schedule for 'Shakespeare in the Park' – free performances offer a unique experience! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking in Central Park, so wear comfy shoes! Reddit

reddit.com

Things to do in Central Park?

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the statue with The Mall's grand promenade in the background for an iconic shot. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Literary Walk

Don't just see the statue; wander the Literary Walk and discover other famous writers nearby. Reddit

🎭 Free Summer Theater

Check the schedule for 'Shakespeare in the Park' – free performances offer a unique experience! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking in Central Park, so wear comfy shoes! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(64 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the William Shakespeare statue as a beautiful and historically significant landmark within Central Park, often found on the picturesque Literary Walk. Many enjoy the statue's presence as part of a larger park exploration, with some highlighting the free 'Shakespeare in the Park' performances as a major draw. While generally well-received, some find it just one of many statues in the park.

"I spent the day in Central Park enjoying the weather and looking at all the historic statues and the scenery. I ended up walking down the Mall where there are lots of statues. I found this beautiful statue of Shakespeare in the circle at the bottom of The Mall."

THE EXPLORER

"Love walking down this amazing path. History is definitely relived here.
Contact CharliesHandyDetailing for all your home/auto needs"

Carlos Vives

"Sat on a bench beside the statue on a nice hot day."

Monsoon S

What People Like

Beautiful historic statue
Part of Literary Walk
Free park access

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Just one of many statues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The William Shakespeare statue is located in Central Park, typically found near The Mall and Literary Walk. You can access it via several subway lines. The closest stations are 72nd Street (B, C trains) or 77th Street (6 train). From there, it's a pleasant walk into the park towards the statue's location. TikTok

Yes, the statue is quite prominent and a well-known landmark within Central Park. It's situated at the southern end of The Mall, a grand promenade, making it relatively easy to locate once you're in that section of the park. Reddit

Driving directly to the statue within Central Park is not possible as it's a pedestrian area. However, you can drive to nearby streets and park in garages, then walk into the park. Consider using ride-sharing services for convenience. TikTok

For the Shakespeare statue area, the B and C trains to 72nd Street are very convenient. The 6 train to 77th Street is also a good option, requiring a slightly longer walk. Reddit

While there's no parking inside the park, numerous parking garages are available on the streets surrounding Central Park. Be prepared for city parking rates. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no ticket required to see the William Shakespeare statue. It is located in Central Park, which is a public space and free to enter. TikTok

The statue is accessible whenever Central Park is open, typically from 6 AM to 1 AM daily. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience and safety. Reddit

Central Park is free to enter for all visitors. You can explore its many attractions, including the Shakespeare statue, without any admission charge. TikTok

While the statue itself doesn't host events, the Delacorte Theater nearby hosts the popular 'Shakespeare in the Park' series during the summer, offering free performances. Reddit

Yes, many guided tours of Central Park include a stop at the Shakespeare statue. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and crowds. Golden hour can create a magical atmosphere. TikTok

Tripods are generally allowed in Central Park, but it's always a good idea to check the latest park regulations, especially during busy events or performances. Reddit

Try capturing the statue from the front, with The Mall's grand avenue behind it. Also, consider shots from a slightly lower angle to emphasize its grandeur. TikTok

Drone usage is strictly prohibited in Central Park to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Reddit

General photography is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors. TikTok

🎫 🎭 Arts & Culture

'Shakespeare in the Park' is a beloved summer tradition in Central Park, featuring free, high-quality productions of Shakespeare's plays at the Delacorte Theater. It has a rich history dating back to 1962. Reddit

Tickets are free but in high demand. You can obtain them through a virtual lottery system or by waiting in line at the Delacorte Theater on performance days. Reddit

The season typically runs from late May through August, with performances often starting in the afternoon. Reddit

Yes, the Literary Walk, which leads to the Shakespeare statue, features other statues of prominent writers like Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott. Reddit

The repertoire varies annually but includes classics like Hamlet, Macbeth, Othello, and A Midsummer Night's Dream, often featuring both emerging and established actors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The William Shakespeare statue is a great, accessible landmark for families exploring Central Park. It's a good spot to introduce children to famous historical figures and encourage them to imagine the stories Shakespeare wrote. The surrounding area, particularly The Mall, offers plenty of open space for kids to run around before or after viewing the statue. TikTok

Consider making it a scavenger hunt to find other literary statues along the Literary Walk. If visiting during the summer, the free 'Shakespeare in the Park' performances, while perhaps better suited for older children, can be a unique cultural outing. Pack snacks and water, as exploring Central Park can be tiring for little ones. Reddit

📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs

For those who appreciate literature and history, the William Shakespeare statue is a pilgrimage site. It's a tangible connection to one of the world's most influential writers. Take time to read the inscriptions and appreciate the artistry of the sculpture. Reddit

Combine your visit with a stroll down the Literary Walk to see statues of other renowned authors. If you're a true bibliophile, consider visiting the New York Public Library nearby, which houses rare literary treasures, including a Shakespeare First Folio. TikTok

📸 Photographers

The Shakespeare statue offers fantastic photographic opportunities, especially when framed by The Mall's grand canopy of trees. The bronze sculpture provides a classic, timeless subject. TikTok

Experiment with different angles and times of day. Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, while late afternoons can provide a warm, golden glow. The surrounding park scenery also provides a beautiful natural backdrop for portraits or landscape shots incorporating the statue. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of the William Shakespeare Statue

The William Shakespeare statue in Central Park is more than just a bronze likeness; it's a symbol of the enduring power of literature and a testament to the park's role as a cultural hub. Erected in 1872, it was one of the earliest statues commissioned for the park, reflecting a growing appreciation for the arts and humanities in New York City. The statue itself is a work of art, depicting Shakespeare in his characteristic attire, quill in hand, seemingly in deep thought.

Its placement near The Mall and the Literary Walk is intentional, creating an area dedicated to celebrating literary giants. This section of the park invites visitors to pause, reflect, and connect with the timeless stories and profound insights offered by these cultural icons. The statue serves as a focal point, drawing people into this contemplative space and encouraging an appreciation for classic literature amidst the urban bustle. Reddit

Many visitors find the statue a peaceful spot to sit and absorb the park's atmosphere. It's a reminder of the rich history embedded within Central Park and a popular backdrop for photos, connecting modern visitors with a figure who has shaped language and storytelling for centuries. The presence of the statue underscores the park's mission to provide not just recreation, but also inspiration and cultural enrichment. TikTok

Experiencing 'Shakespeare in the Park'

For theater enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, 'Shakespeare in the Park' offers an unparalleled free cultural experience. Hosted by The Public Theater at the Delacorte Theater, this summer tradition brings the Bard's masterpieces to life under the open sky. The performances are renowned for their high caliber, featuring talented actors, both established stars and rising talents, who breathe new life into classic plays like Hamlet, Macbeth, and A Midsummer Night's Dream. Reddit

Securing tickets is part of the adventure. While free, they are highly sought after. Visitors can try their luck through a virtual lottery or by queuing up at the Delacorte Theater on performance days. The anticipation and camaraderie among those waiting often add to the memorable experience. It’s a chance to witness professional theater without the hefty Broadway price tag, making it accessible to everyone. Reddit

The atmosphere at the Delacorte Theater is magical. Performances often begin in the late afternoon, allowing the audience to enjoy the park's natural beauty as the sun sets. The open-air setting, combined with the power of Shakespeare's language and compelling performances, creates an unforgettable evening. It’s a quintessential New York summer activity that blends art, history, and the vibrant spirit of the city. TikTok