Central Park
Royal Caribbean — Ship Neighborhood
Quick Answer: Central Park is an open-air neighborhood running through the center of Oasis and Icon Class ships. Features 12,000+ live plants and trees, specialty restaurants, bars, boutiques, and evening live entertainment. Open 24/7 for strolling. The park area itself is complimentary; restaurants have cover charges.
Best For: Guests seeking unique ship experiences, romantic evening strolls, specialty dining enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates innovative cruise design.
Key Facts
- Access: Complimentary — open 24/7
- Features: 12,000+ live plants, trees, walkways
- Dining: Multiple specialty restaurants ($$$)
- Entertainment: Live music evenings, strolling performers
- Location: Deck 8, center of ship
Experience the world's only open-air park at sea with real plants, upscale dining, and evening entertainment.
Central Park revolutionized cruise ship design when it debuted on Oasis of the Seas in 2009. The neighborhood creates a garden oasis in the center of the world's largest ships, complete with mature trees, flowering plants, and a tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from typical ship environments. Return to the Restaurants hub →
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Special Accommodations
Accessibility Notes: Central Park walkways are wheelchair accessible with smooth pathways throughout. Some restaurants have steps at entrances but alternative access is available. The area is open-air so mobility aids should be weather-appropriate. Evening lighting is generally adequate for those with vision concerns.
Where You'll Find It
Central Park runs lengthwise through the center of Oasis and Icon Class ships, typically on Deck 8. Access from multiple stairwells and elevators throughout the ship.
Best Times to Visit
- Morning: Quiet atmosphere, breakfast at Park Cafe
- Afternoon: Browse shops, grab coffee
- Evening: Most magical time—live music, dinner reservations, romantic strolling
- Late Night: Peaceful atmosphere after entertainment ends
Ships with Central Park
The Logbook — Real Guest Soundings
Depth Sounding: This is a first-person account captured "In the Wake," edited to our venue standards for clarity. Individual sailings vary by ship, itinerary, and crew.
Central Park Review: A Garden Oasis at Sea
Introduction. Central Park exceeded every expectation I had going in. The concept of a real park with living plants in the middle of a cruise ship sounds like a gimmick until you experience it. Walking through in the evening with live music playing, trees softly lit, and the sky visible above is genuinely magical.
The Environment
The plantings are lush and mature—these aren't little potted plants but actual trees that have been growing for years. The landscape design creates different zones as you walk through, from open gathering areas to more intimate nooks. A dedicated horticulture team maintains everything, and it shows.
Dining
We had dinner at 150 Central Park (our anniversary splurge) and it was outstanding. The experience of dining in an intimate restaurant that opens onto the park is unique. We also grabbed breakfast at Park Cafe (free) which offers excellent pastries and made-to-order items.
Atmosphere
Evenings are when Central Park really comes alive. Strolling musicians, soft lighting, and couples enjoying drinks at outdoor tables create a romantic ambiance. The Rising Tide Bar—a bar that literally rises between decks—is a fun novelty. We found ourselves returning every evening.
Conclusion
Central Park is reason enough to book an Oasis or Icon Class ship. It transforms the cruise experience by offering a space that feels genuinely different from typical ship environments. Rating: 5.0/5. Don't miss evening strolls and at least one specialty dining experience here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Central Park really open to the sky?
Yes, Central Park is genuinely open to the sky. There is no roof or covering—you're exposed to the elements while surrounded by real plants and trees. Staterooms with balconies overlook the park from above.
Are the plants in Central Park real?
Yes, Central Park features over 12,000 live plants including mature trees. A dedicated horticulture team maintains the greenery. The plants are watered by a sophisticated irrigation system using fresh water.
Is there a cover charge for Central Park?
Walking through and enjoying Central Park is completely free. The specialty restaurants (150 Central Park, Chops Grille, Giovanni's Table) have cover charges, but Park Cafe is complimentary.
What happens to Central Park in bad weather?
Central Park remains accessible in most weather. Some outdoor seating may be limited during rain. The plants are selected and maintained to withstand maritime conditions.
What are Central Park staterooms?
Central Park staterooms are a unique cabin category with balconies overlooking the park rather than the ocean. They offer outdoor space and natural light at lower prices than ocean-view balconies.
Sources & Attribution
- Royal Caribbean — Cruise Ships
- First-hand experience on Oasis and Icon Class ships
- Royal Caribbean marks referenced under fair use for research and commentary.
- All Rights Reserved