Of the thirty-six iconic bridges in Central Park, the most well-known is the Bow Bridge, so named because of its graceful curves akin to an archer’s bow.

Its popularity is enhanced because, from its curving walkway, it is possible to have views of the skylines of both Fifth Avenue and Central Park West.   Post wedding photo shoots are a regular occurrence.  

Of course, it is stunning from many vantage points, and has been a backdrop in many movies, including Enchanted, Spiderman 3, and Night at The Museum.   

When the Bow Bridge was first completed in 1862, it had eight cast iron urns, four on each side. At some point during the 1920’s, the urns were stolen, and, for whatever reason, they were forgotten and not replaced.  In 2008, the bridge underwent a major restoration, and historians studied old photographs of the bridge and discovered the urns that were originally on the bridge.  

Replicas were created and returned to the spots they once occupied.  

Let’s fervently hope that the urns remain just where they were intended to rest, and the the views of the Bow Bridge will continue to captivate visitors for a long, long time.

To learn more about Bow Bridge and other parts of Central Park, come take a tour with us!