Umpire Rock
About
Umpire Rock offers a unique outdoor rock climbing experience in the heart of Central Park, blending natural rock formations with iconic city views. While not a traditional indoor gym with structured coaching or amenities, it provides a natural climbing environment where visitors can practice bouldering and climbing on the rock's surfaces. The location is known for its scenic beauty, offering a perfect mix of nature and towering Midtown skyscrapers that create a distinctive training backdrop.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Reviewers consistently praise Umpire Rock as an extremely beautiful and iconic location within Central Park. They highlight the perfect mix of natural rock climbing opportunities with stunning views of Midtown skyscrapers, creating a unique outdoor experience. Visitors appreciate the friendly, easygoing atmosphere where people climb, take photos, relax, and socialize, with many recommending morning visits to avoid crowds. Specific praise focuses on the scenic beauty in different conditions from sunny days to snowy landscapes, though one reviewer mentions the area's historical nickname referencing rats that used to swarm there at night.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Fryad Omar
2 months ago
One of the most beautiful places in Central Park.
remi k
6 months ago
cute little location to chat, sunbathe, look at tourists taking photos, etc. best to come here in the morning with a cup of coffee or tea to secure a nice little spot on the rock before people start coming in and taking photos.
Andre Lucas Ribeiro
3 months ago
Extremely beautiful park, both with sun and with snow.
Tibor
10 months ago
This rocky viewpoint in Central Park offers one of the park’s most iconic views. From here, you get a perfect mix of nature and towering Midtown skyscrapers. It’s a fun place to climb, take photos, or just relax and watch the city go by. There are always a few people around—tourists, locals, or friends hanging out—giving the spot a friendly, easygoing vibe. Great at any time of day, but especially beautiful in the late afternoon light.
Ahmed Al-Akki
3 months ago
This rock formation is officially named Umpire Rock, due to its proximity to the ballfields, but is commonly known as Rat Rock after the rats that used to swarm there at night. I saw people taking photos of themselves here with the skyscrapers in the background.
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Thursday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Friday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Saturday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Sunday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM