NYC's Long-Awaited Davis Center Opens in Central Park

On Saturday, April 26th, the public can finally visit the new Davis Center at Harlem Meer on the north end of Central Park. Construction on the $160 million project broke ground in 2021, and we got a sneak peek of the final product!

Designed by Susan T. Rodriguez in collaboration with Mitchell Giurola Architects and the Central Park Conservancy, this beautiful year-round facility sits at the former site of Lasker Rink.

The new facility is tucked into a hill and blends seamlessly into the lush landscape of the North Woods with a green roof that offers panoramic views of the Harlem Meer. The eight-acre site boasts an expansive lawn that can transform into an ice rink or a pool depending on the season. Shiny new locker rooms, restrooms, and room for events can be found inside the LEED Gold Certified building.

In addition to the new structure, the natural landscape has been enhanced. A naturalistic water’s edge has been restored, a previously hidden stream has been daylighted, and a new boardwalk and walking paths have been constructed. This naturalistic approach to the surrounding landscape aligns with Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux's original rustic vision of the park.

The Davis Center at Harlem Meer opens to the public on Saturday, April 26th at 12pm. Festivities will include live music, arts and crafts for all ages, lawn games, yoga, dance, and guided tours.

Next, check out The Lavish Prohibition-Era Central Park Casino Torn Down by Robert Moses!