Bethesda Fountain

Rising from Bethesda Terrace is Bethesda Fountain, with the Angel of the Waters statue atop. 

There’s probably no more recognizable feature of New York City’s Central Park than the Bethesda Fountain. Central Park visitors are often immediately drawn to the Bethesda Terrace and its fountain, which is considered one of the most famous in the world. Steeped in equal parts history and mythology, its grandeur knows no bounds in size and legend. When you rent a bike from us, you can visit the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain at your leisure or take advantage of a guided tour. It’s up to you and your preferences as a curious seeker of knowledge and appreciator of art!

Where is Bethesda Fountain in Central Park?

One of the most common questions asked by NYC tourists is, “Where is Bethesda Fountain in Central Park?” The answer is as clear as the fountain’s waters: It’s situated at the center of Bethesda Terrace. This famed fountain is the focal point of Bethesda Terrace.

How to Get to Bethesda Fountain

Anyone wondering how to get to Bethesda Fountain need only consider the layout of Central Park, as the fountain is often referred to as the heart of the southern end of this popular sightseeing space. If you rent a bike from us to ride through Central Park, you should easily find the fountain as you explore the landscape.

Grandeur is ingrained in the Bethesda Fountain. NYC fountains have a reputation for being impressive and memorable, but this monument stands in a class of its own. At an imposing 26 feet in height and 96 feet in width, the fountain stakes its claim as one of the biggest in NYC and especially in Central Park. Bethesda Fountain is instantly recognizable to many visitors due to its size and distinguishing features. The iconic Angel of the Waters statue situated above the fountain is also steeped in history, religion, and mythology.

In 1868, the neoclassical Angel of the Waters statue was created by Emma Stebbins, who was a modern trailblazer: She was the first woman to have one of her works of art commissioned by the city to be used in a public space. Stebbins was inspired by the Gospel of John, which told the story of an angel bestowing healing properties on the Pool of Bethesda. Terrace and fountain designs hearken back to this story as well as the history of the city: The fountain commemorates the opening of the Croton Aqueduct in 1842, introducing fresh water to NYC after years of sanitation issues and public health problems like cholera. As if to encourage the purifying elements of this new aquatic source, the Angel of the Waters statue holds a dainty lily over the water.

Its memorable beauty is only one of the many reasons to visit the Bethesda Fountain. Central Park visitors can get a history lesson as well as pick up some knowledge about classical studies, religion, and art when they stop and examine the fountain during a bike-riding adventure. For the best experience at the fountain, rent a bike online with Bike Rental Central Park. We aim to give you a safe and comfortable ride by providing you with a helmet, lock, and top-quality bike with which to explore the park. Make your reservation today with one of the top-rated bike rental companies in the city!