Designed in New York by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in the mid-1800s, Central Park was the first landscaped public park in the country. Despite its location in the middle of the city and the fact that it’s a major destination in New York, the seven-mile park is surprisingly tranquil. Enter on 72nd Street to get to the Lake and the picturesque Central Park Boathouse and Café. At the Lake you’ll see not only the New York skyline, but also its shimmering reflection in the water. Traipse around the shoreline or rent a rowboat and take in the dramatic Bow Bridge, The Ramble, bamboo groves and white swans floating past you. On the deck of the Boathouse order a glass of wine and light lunch to restore yourself after the city’s bustle. Or go more upscale in the airy, sun-drenched neo-Victorian dining room, which offers the same view of the Lake. After lunch rent a bike to maximize the amount of ground you cover, or wander down to romantic Bethesda Terrace. The site of many a movie scene, this section of Central Park rivals some of the greatest parks in the world. From the upper terrace or through the grand arches of the lower terrace, view the beautiful Angel of the Waters sculpture and Bethesda Fountain. Admire Calvert Vaux’s and Jacob Wrey Mould’s paintings and carvings, and the Minton tiles that adorn the intricate structure. Perhaps the most spectacular place in all of Central Park, this is no doubt the definition of picture-perfect.