Strawberry Fields (John Lennon Memorial)

The Basics

This section of Central Park, near the Dakota Apartments on Central Park West, where Lennon was living when he was killed, was dedicated as a memorial to singer, songwriter, and activist a few years after he died. Today, the site is popular with Beatles fans and is often filled with visitors paying tribute to the artist and buskers singing his songs.

The park was designed by Lennon’s widow, Yoko Ono, the landscape architect Bruce Kelly, and Central Park Conservancy, and is named for Lennon’s song “Strawberry Fields Forever.” The center of the park is marked by a mosaic of the word “Imagine,” the name of Lennon’s best-selling solo single, which meditates on the possibilities of global peace. The plant life and rocks in the garden were donated by 120 countries that recognize the garden as a place of peace.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Strawberry Fields and the Imagine memorial are designated quiet spaces, so be mindful of those around you and avoid disruptive activities.

• The Strawberry Fields section of Central Park is wheelchair accessible.

• The park includes lots of benches for resting and quiet contemplation.

How to Get There

Strawberry Fields is inside Central Park. The closest entrance to the memorial is at Central Park West and 72nd Street. To reach this entrance by subway, take the A, B, C, 1, 2, or 3 trains to 72nd Street. You can also reach the park on a hop-on-hop-off bus or other city tour.

When to Get There

The park is open every day, all year round. It is especially busy on the anniversaries of Lennon’s birth and death (October 9 and December 8, respectively). Visit early in the morning for a quiet visit.

The Central Park Zoo

For a more rambunctious, kid-friendly activity, head to the small but wonderful Central Park Zoo. Visit a variety of animals, from snow leopards and red pandas to lemurs and penguins, and watch the zoo’s sea lions perform for their trainers during daily feedings. There’s even a special children’s section where kids can see adorable creatures like the Patagonia cavy and climb around on play structures.

Ways to explore

Fans of the Beatles—and those who love the message of Lennon’s songs—won’t want to miss the chance to visit Strawberry Fields. The garden is located close to the Dakota Apartments, where Lennon and Ono lived, and where Lennon was tragically killed. Many travelers stop at the poignant memorial, and some light a candle or place flowers by the Imagine mosaic.

Strawberry Fields is a part of many Central Park tours, including walking, bike, and electric scooter tours, as well as pedicab rides. Hop-on, hop-off bus tours also stop at Central Park.

Accessibility

The garden is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, flowers (for the memorial)

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

Loud music or other noise (this is a designated quiet space)

Amenities

Benches; maps and information at the West 72nd Street kiosk; restroom and snack kiosk at Mineral Springs in the park

Address

Strawberry Fields is set at the southwest corner of the lake in Central Park, a short stroll from the entrance at Central Park West and 72nd Street. You can walk there from within the park, and subway stops are nearby.

Driving

There’s no direct car access to Central Park, and parking is extremely limited (not to mention expensive) on the Upper West Side. It’s much more convenient to take a taxi or ride the subway instead.

Public transportation

On the subway, take the B or C train to 72nd Street, right by the entrance to Central Park, or the 1, 2, or 3 to 72nd Street and Broadway. Once you’re in the park, it’s about a 2-minute walk to reach the garden.

Best times to visit

Central Park can get busy, so time your visit for the early morning to see the memorial at its quietest. If you don’t mind the crowds, the memorial garden is a peaceful spot for a lunchtime picnic.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are usually the most peaceful time to visit the park, though free events and concerts are often a draw on summer weekends.

Best months to visit

Central Park is beautiful year-round. It’s especially colorful in the spring and fall, and lively in the summer.

Special events

John Lennon’s birthday and the anniversary of his death, October 9 and December 8, respectively, always draw a crowd to the memorial. These are the only days of the year when buskers are allowed to perform in the quiet zone—expect a medley of hits from Lennon and the Beatles.