Central Park’s beloved Loeb Boathouse has partially reopened just in time for the summer season. After facing financial struggles and closing its doors last year, the iconic boathouse is back with a new cafe menu, a new operator, and colorful boats.
Located on the north side of the building, the boat rentals and cafe now offer an 80-seat outdoor patio where visitors can grab a bite to eat and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Operating seven days a week, the new cafe menu offers a variety of options, ranging from $4 pastries to $25 lobster rolls. All orders are packaged to go, perfect for those seeking a meal on the move.
However, the famous main dining room, which overlooks the lake, will remain closed until late summer or early fall. The new operator, Legends, explained in a press release that ongoing renovations are still underway in that area.
For those looking to take advantage of the beautiful lake and go for a boat ride, there are now 100 boats available for rent. However, the rental fee has increased to $25 per hour, up from last year’s $20 rate. Walk-ins are welcome on a first-come, first-served basis, but online bookings through reservation service OpenTable will soon be available to provide a convenient option for visitors. It’s important to note that there is a maximum limit of four people per boat, and children under 12 must wear life jackets for safety.
Legends, a well-known hospitality company, was announced as the new management of the Loeb Boathouse in February. The decision came after the boathouse closed its doors on December 31, blaming rising costs for its financial struggles. The boathouse had previously closed in October 2020 due to the pandemic but briefly reopened in the spring of 2021 before having to shut down again.
With this new management, Mayor Eric Adams expressed his optimism for the future of the boathouse. He believes that it can come back better than ever, offering both tourists and New Yorkers the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful space and scenery once again.
The history of the Central Park Boathouse dates back to the 1870s, and the modern iteration we know today opened its doors in March 1954. Over the years, it has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Additionally, it has made appearances in films like “When Harry Met Sally” and “The Manchurian Candidate,” further solidifying its status as an iconic landmark.
The reopening of the Loeb Boathouse brings a sense of joy and anticipation for anyone seeking to experience the beauty of Central Park while enjoying a delicious meal or leisurely boat ride. As the renovations progress and the main dining room opens later this year, visitors will have even more opportunities to create lasting memories in this iconic New York City destination.
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