New York’s Sailboat Pond: A Joyful Spot That Distinguishes the City

Central Park is full of small spaces that together add up to Frederick Law Olmsted’s unrivaled masterpiece

The sailboat pond, with strategically placed sculpture and kiosks, creates an oasis of calm and comfort in New York’s Central Park.

A delightful promenade circles the entire pond. A model sailboat club stores boats in the nearby park building, and an outdoor cafe adds to the pleasurable mood.

The sculpture of Alice in Wonderland is a joyful celebration of that delightful book.

This sculpture below honors master children’s storyteller Hans Christian Andersen.

This special spot in Central Park embodies what we call The Social Life—an important element of great communities and happy lives. We will showcase many more examples of The Social Life from around the world in future photo essays. We hope they inspire ideas for improving your own community.