Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a small oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. Located between 40th and 42nd Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues, it is adjacent to the Public Library. It is near Times Square (just 1 block away). ¹

Bryant Park has a simple but effective design, with a large central lawn surrounded by trees. The history of Bryant Park begins in the 19th century when it was still known as Reservoir Square. It was named after the Croton Reservoir, which was built next to the square in 1842. In 1884, the square was renamed Bryant Park after William Cullen Bryant, a writer, lawyer, and journalist. He was one of the most influential advocates for the abolition of slavery in the United States and one of the forces behind the founding of Central Park.

After several decades of neglect, the park was redesigned between 1933 and 1934 as part of public works during the Depression.²