Car Rentals
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New York City Car Rentals and Bryant Park
Take a break from driving your New York City car rental and relax at the peaceful Bryant Park. As one of the most pleasant and popular parks in Manhattan, this 8 acre large green oasis can be found at the intersection of 42nd St. and 6th Avenue.
Brief History
Before taking your New York City car rental to Bryant Park, here is a brief history to read up on. During the late 19th century, Bryant Park was known as Reservoir square. It was names after the Croton reservoir that was constructed adjacent to the square in 1842. In 1884 the square was renamed Bryant Park after William Cullen Bryant, a poet, lawyer, influential advocate for the abolition of slavery in the US and one of the forces behind the creation of Central Park. The park was redesigned in 1933 and it featured great hedges that obscured the view of the surrounding streets. This made the park appealing for drug addicts since most people could pass by the park unaware of what went on inside. Finally in 1988, the Bryant Park Restoration Corporation initiated the park's redesign and restoration. The high hedges were replaces by shrubs and by 1992 the new park was opened and became an instant success.
Monuments in the Park
The historical New York Public Library hems the east side of Bryant Park. You can see the lions carved in Pink Tennessee marble by sculptor Edward Clark Potter, or the fountains on the side of the library's entrance called "Truth" and "Beauty". At the rear terrace of the library you will find the site of the William Cullen Bryant Memorial designed by Herbert Adams - one of the best New York sculptors of his time. At the north side of the park you will find the bronze statue of William Earl Dodge - a business man and philanthropist. If you head over to the west side, you fill find the beautiful Josephine Shaw Lowell Memorial Fountain dedicated in 1912. This was the city's 1st public memorial dedicated to a woman! On the south side you will find a great statue of the great German writer Johann Wolfgang van Goethe.
Surrounding Buildings
As your drive by Bryant Park in your New York City car rental, there are a number of interesting buildings you should check out. First you should look out for the W.R. Grace Building. This sleek 50 story building was designed by SOM's Gordon Shaff. You will also love the 1901 Beaux-Arts style Bryant Park Studies building on 40th street. Last but not least, look for the former American Radiator Building. This great 1924 sky scraper was built in neo-Gothic style with Art Deco ornaments.
What's there to do at Bryant Park?
Before heading off in your New York City car rental, why not check out all the activities at Bryant Park. Depending on the season, you will find a French-style carousel, a bouleboard, chess tables, extensive gardens, and sensational planting displays. There is also a Bryant Park Grill and free wireless access. In fact, over 50,000 users have connected to the internet this past year! There are also 2000 moveable chairs, so feel free to pick the perfect spot to take refuge from the busy city.
Live Entertainment
Take your New York City car rental to Bryant Park on a Monday evening in the summer time and watch the Summer Film Festival presented by the HBO! If that's not enough for you, come to the park on Friday mornings in the summer and see the Summer Concert Series presented by ABC's Good Morning America. There is no admission charge for either event!
