Very crowded; I could not "Imagine All the People" A simple and small mosaic, the physical impact is not monumental. The impact, mostly for fans, is the surprising emotional impact, especially when you factor in the sounds of Lennon from guitar-wielding fans and the deep shadow cast from the Dakotas across the street, where he was shot. read more

In one word: "delightful." Though said to be a tribute or memorial to John Lennon, it's not. It's a delightful tribute to IMAGINATION, not only his but yours. Strawberry Fields is one of the few places I've visited wherein one doesn't lose focus of what they are looking at or what it is all about. read more

Strawberry Fields - Imagine located in the center of Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

My parents had big LP albums that I used to stare at as a wide-eyed little kid. I often stared at the Abbey Road cover and tried to see if I could remember and name all the Beatles-especially difficult because of their long hair! One day in specific I remember trying to, and my mom or dad kind of somberly pointing to the man in a white suit with a beard crossing the street and saying "but he got shot, he died," as it must have happened in the time since I had last looked at the album cover. I remember distinctly looking hard at his profile and wondering why? 35 years later it still seems an appropriate question without a good answer. But Strawberry Fields is a nice memorial to John Lennon and a thoughtful sentiment. (The name of the song as I understand it comes from an area John escaped to as a boy at a boarding school/orphanage.) The actual area did to me look like just another pleasant area of Central park, but it was a freezing winter morning - in summer I'm sure its a more lively scene. (Either way a man did try to sell me tickets to something Beatles related.) There's the "Imagine" mosaic, and it's a nice quiet area to reflect but I wished there was a little bit more substance and a bigger memorial in the area. read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

What can I say - it is all about John Lennon and every time I go it feels like I am in a church. Everyone is respectful and you can almost forget you are in the middle of New York City. Even though this is a big tourist attraction, there is room for all and if you wait long enough your perfect picture will frame itself. What a beautiful spot. Not far from The Dakota ... read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

This is a memorial place in Central Park in memory of John Lennon, not far from where he lived and was shot outside the Dakota building. There's no strawberries growing here, so I suppose the name comes from a song. There is a large mosaic pattern circle on the ground where it says 'Imagine' in the middle. Must be referring to the rent in the Dakota building. You will often find performers here. read more

While Strawberry Fields may be forever according to the Beatles, there's no reason to stay in New York's Strawberry Fields forever. An admitted beautiful memorial to John Lennon, achingly close to the site of his murder, the main issue is that there are so many people trying to view the memorial that there is no peace and quiet to reflect and think. As a memorial, it is a quaint section right off the avenue, slightly inset in the park - signs point you right to it, and the crush of people are a good sign you're getting closer too. On a nice day, some people may have laid out flower petals or a wreath, but that's wholly dependent on passerbys putting them out read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

It's been a while since I have stopped by the Strawberry fields, but was pleasantly surprised. The "Imagine" mosaic landmark was completely unoccupied with people. Usually there is a crowd of people lining up to take a picture, but this time it was completely available for the perfect picture. read more

Strawberry Fields - Imagine landmark in the Strawberry fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

My first time to Stawberry Fields. A memorable and moving experience. To those that believe standing on the mosaic to get a picture is cool...it's not. I like that people come to sit and contemplate the music and life of John Lennon. I hear him sing 'all we are saying...is give peace a chance'. read more

Strawberry Fields - 7/4/2011 - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

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Be sure to turn off your cell phones or at least put them on vibrate. This part of Central Park is not friendly to such technology. Also, visit the Dakota Building across the street to see where John Lennon was shot. Otherwise, just sit back and relax to the music and people that usually surround the Imagine memorial. read more

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This is the American mecca for John Lennon and Beatles fans. A beautiful tribute to a beautiful mind. There is a sense of somber atmosphere, but also a sense of hope. If you are in and around Central Park, take a detour and spend some time at Strawberry Fields, even if it is only for a few moments. read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

In a recent 30-hour stay in NYC I was happy to be hoteled up near Central Park. On a whim I started searching for touristy things within the park confines and discovered Strawberry Fields. I've heard of it and seen it on TV before (thanks CBS Sunday Morning & Lady Gaga) but wanted to see it for myself. I found absolute solitude and serenity there in the early morning hours (6-7a) when no one was in the area except for nearby joggers/runners/bikers. I was taken aback by how peaceful it was in Strawberry Fields despite being in the middle of the nation's largest city. Guess my timing couldn't have been more perfect. As I strolled up I texted the # to hear Yoko Ono's commentary- good advice taken from reading on Yelp. Beatles fan or not, take some moments to sit on the benches and relax, reflect. read more

I finally made a visit with a family friend to strawberry fields in Central Park and I now regret waiting soooo long. A wonderful tribute to John Lennon to honor a madly talented musician who was also a member of a group called the Beatles. Not as crowded as I was expecting but still plenty of folks gathered around the oval ground plaque some playing Beatles tune on acoustic guitars. My friend who is a Beatles fanatic gave me a brief history lesson on strawberry fields and pointed to the Dakota building where Lennon lived and died . John Lennon was all about peace and love with strawberry fields continuing his message of peace and we can never forget the music he left us. read more

I'm a John Lennon fan, I was here last Sunday on my birthday. It's on the west side in central park by the Dakota. There are fans all over the world came to give tribute to him. There was a woman singing all of the Beatles songs. Highlight of my trip ... 5 stars rating. read more

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My whole childhood was listening to music that was way before my time. The Beatles were probably one of the few that stuck with me into my adult life, and because of this, I knew that visiting this location would be a priority on my vacation to New York. It is located on the west side of Central Park - so close to Central Park West. I have visited this location twice, and on both times, there are people that seem to be staples to the location either singing songs, telling jokes, drawing portraits, etc. On the ground, there is a circular tribute in grayscale with the word "Imagine." It is simple, yet beautiful. This location is always crowded, but it is definitely a must see. (Across the way from Strawberry Fields is The Dakota on 72nd and Central Park - where John Lennon lived and died.) read more

I had no idea. My first time in NYC so, of course we have to hit Central Park. We just happened to enter at 72nd & Central Park West & then, of course, we just followed the music. It was beautiful & magical. read more

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Memorial for John Lennon so it's worth a visit for Beatles fans - even if you're not a fan, which is weird. You can reflect and rue what could have been, or just pass through and say you've been there. It will get a little crowded here especially at the Imagine circle, with visitors and locals mingling about. Besides them, musicians hanging out and jamming is the norm. Good version of the song by the way (youtube.com/watch?v=4DjWpq8Oyoc). read more

On most days, when the skies are blue and the sun shines graciously upon Central Park, a steady stream of people always make their way to the Imagine Circle (the ornate mosaic, set into the pavement, which is Strawberry Fields' emblematic focal point). Some visitors merely stare briefly and move on; some take a quick photograph as a souvenir; others, highlighting the site's role as a memorial, leave flowers or candles; and, some, who are creatively inclined, strum their guitars and play Beatle songs. Personally, I tend to fall into another, more contemplative group (one that prefers to find a park bench to pass the time quietly and reflect). For me, in the most idealistic way, this Strawberry Fields in Central Park is very much like the original Strawberry Field (minus the "s"), which was a Salvation Army orphanage located in Woolton (a suburb of Liverpool) where John Lennon, as a boy, would go to escape. It was a place where he would seek refuge from his physical environment (which was governed by restrictive rules and expectations) and from his emotional environment (which was filled with painful and hurtful memories). In the song, "Strawberry Fields Forever" (from 1967), which was inspired by that Salvation Army home, Lennon famously sang that "nothing is real" and that there is "nothing to get hung about." Those lyrics, still applicable and resonant, very much ring true. Those who only listen superficially may easily gloss over their meaning or else submit to them as mere semantic placeholders in a song that is filled with sweeping instruments and complex layers that are enough to preoccupy normal attention. However, in its greatest philosophical reach, those words (upon careful and close examination) really do bring into focus some of the elusive meaning inherent in life. Perhaps, we really can subdue our mental constructs and lick our wounds to affirm that "nothing is real." And, guided by playfulness rather than malice, what would honestly warrant our death on the gallows? Surely, there is nothing to get "hung about?" Really, in the demanding environment that is New York City (with its mind numbing pace, congestion, and dog-eat-dog ethos), life can grate on anyone both internally and externally; but, despite it all, Lennon reminds us reassuringly that, "it's getting hard to be someone, but it all works out." Few places provide a chance to escape and reflect on what matters (and, fewer still do so while being sanctioned by such poetic invitation). With Strawberry Fields, if we allow it, there's a place where we all can tap into the deepest and purest part not only of the New York state of mind...but, indeed, of any state of mind worth having. cranberry sauce...cranberry sauce http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTXyoPVOUso read more

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"Living is easy, with eyes closed" But open them up and you'll see a beautiful section of Central Park dedicated to the great John Lennon. Late at night on 12/8/80, he was shot four times in the back by Mark David Chapman as John and Yoko Ono were returning to their apartment in the nearby Dakota building. Strawberry Fields was created to honor him and give everyone a chance to pay their heartfelt respects to the beloved musician (as well as take photos with the now-famous 'imagine' mosaic). There was a hippie strumming away on his guitar--and doing a bloody good job, I might add--playing a nice rendition of Pink Floyd's 'Wish You Were Here'. Admittedly it wasn't one of John's songs, but it's the thought that counts. Many others were selling Beatles merch or stuff from Lennon's solo career, and flowers were available for purchase as a way for fans to pay tribute. 5 stars, were it not for the fact that a crazed hobo came barging thru the peaceful crowd of people and loudly blurted out "goddamn piece of sh*t tourists, man, f*cking walking around and crap, bunch of assholes pissing me off (unintelligible mumbling)". Whatever sort of somber mood there was, crazy hobo guy ruined it. Nevertheless, this is something everyone should see, whether you're a hardcore Beatles fan, general music lover, or just appreciate artist memorials. Strawberry Fields, forever. "Imagine all the people, living in peace......." read more

A little crowded, not good for meditation. A must-see spot for beatles fans. A sign gives you instruction on how to listen to a audio made by Yoko, people may ig It seems to me that some people who take photos with 'imagine' are not beatles fans or his fans at all. Strawberry fields forever. read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

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I am a huge Beatles fan and this was top of my list for places to visit in NYC. I was so curious about it. Well, the park is beautiful, that is for sure and this section of the park is really poignant. I was amazed at how many gifts people had left there. Really beautiful, high end flowers, a pumpkin, a guitar, song lyrics, and poems. It was really nice to see, John Lennon is still touching peoples lives after all these years. The memorial sits in an area where there is benches all around it. There was a wide range of different types of people there, lots of folks sitting around on the benches. It was so quiet, oddly quiet actually considering how many people were there. The part that hit me the strongest was the very clear view of the Dakota from the memorial. Someone told me that Yoko Ono's actually apartment has a view of the memorial but I have no idea if that is true or not. I am really happy that we went to visit the memorial, I wished that I brought something to leave behind. It was hard to explain how peaceful it is there, it is just so quiet. Sad too though.... read more

Strawberry Fields - John Lennon memorial - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

It sucks that this has to exist, causing me to visit it each time I come to New York. It's my quiet place to reflect not only John Lennon's life, but other of life's pauses. It is in Central Park, across from the Dakota. Yoko Ono has this maintained. It's a beautiful stone, with flowers positioned in a peace sign. There is a sign saying, "quiet area" If you get there early, it's very peaceful and quiet. But if you get there in the afternoon, there's hundreds of visitors. Time stopped when I heard on the radio that John had been shot in 1980. And every December 8th, time stops momentarily. And every time I visit New York, I end up here. And I take the same pictures, and walk the silent path. Glad it's perfectly maintained. Everyone needs to see this once in their lives. read more

The park is wonderful... The memorial is beautiful... The love in the air here really is just something else... If you are visiting NY and you are a fan of Lennon or The Beatles, this is a really lovely spot not to far into the park. read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

Strawberry Fields opened on October 9, 1985, John Lennon's 45th birthday. Every October 9th since then has seen an all day vigil of people of all ages from around the world. I still remember it. Imagine was my high school graduation song so it has a special meaning to me and takes me back to that time every time I am there. read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

A cool little memorial / tribute site for good ol' John, but not as extravagant as the Jimi Hendrix Memorial in Seattle. I came I saw, I honored. I agree with Carmen C, by just popping on the earphones and sweep yourself away with the sounds of John and the Beatles. read more

This isn't even something that should be reviewed or rated. It's a peaceful hub of Central Park, one that serves as a tribute to the great John Lennon who very much was robbed of his life way before he should have. RIP. Gone but never forgotten {3. read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

Pros: (+) Beautiful memorial for John Lennon from The Beatles (+) Create arrangements around the Imagine circle (+) Always some kind of entertainment around the area (musician, artist, singer, etc) (+) Plenty of seating (+) Beautiful garden (+) Bike tours (+) Easy access from the train Cons: (-) None. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Who would rate this place less than 5 stars?!? Even if you're not a die hard Beatles fan...this place is beautiful and has to be seen. What's not to like about Strawberry Fields. It's beautiful. It's well maintained. Plenty of seating. It's easily accessible from the train. Bike tours....learn the history of Strawberry Fields...the story of John Lennon and Yoko Ono and how they moved across the street to be near this park....and how Yoko Ono still lives in the same place till this day...plus learn the history of the rest of Central Park. I myself would never think to take a bike tour, but because I had friends visiting town in such a short period of time....I knew we couldn't possibly see all of Central Park in one day. So I figured taking them on a bike tour would be an awesome experience for them. I'm glad we did because they enjoyed it....and I have to admit, so did I.... read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

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Strawberry Fields is a portion of Central Park that is a living memorial to John Lennon, who was shot nearby. British Boyfriend pointed this out, and it was nice in a way, that the city honored him with a peaceful spot in the park for all of us to enjoy. It was a beautiful crisp Thanksgiving Day when were e were there, and a great spot to watch the parade! Having historical significance gave the place a bit of a soul. read more

Strawberry Fields - Great place on the parade route! - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

Emotionally moving. The vibe is at once somber yet quietly celebratory. A pilgrimage of people from all over the globe.... ruminating, reminiscing, pensive, crying, humming, hugging, meditative. Whatever John, his music, his philosophy, his crusade, his persuasions......however they've influenced you, you will find yourself in beautifully like company w a heart full of gratefulness. read more

If you are a Beatles or John Lennon fan, this is a must-visit. This is just a small part of Central Park with a nondescript memorial to John Lennon. However, the place is almost always busy with fans paying their respects. It always makes me wonder what John would have brought to the world if he were still alive today. This site is close to the Dakota -- the famed apartment building that John lived in (and where Yoko Ono still lives). John was shot and killed at the front door of the Dakota and you can see that spot if you are interested, although the exact spot is not open to the public. read more

Great photo ops for Beatles fans here. Located at 72nd Street and Central Park West, you will find the Dakota building where John Lennon lived and was murdered. As you enter Central Park, you will find a section of the park called Strawberry Fields that is dedicated to him. The highlight of this section is the Imagine mosaic. read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

I wanted to participate in whatever great music was happening on 10/9/19, to celebrate the life of John Lennon on his 79th birthday. I would like Ms. Ono, and John's sons and relatives and friends to know, the live music was fabulous. When I entered Central Park across from 72nd street, I could hear the music and singing. As a lover of Mr. Lennon's songs, I was psyched to walk up to 4 acoustic guitarists (one with a hofner bass through an amp), along with a chap blowing into a small keyboard through a small rubber hose (he really added some good lead melodies!), A crowd of maybe 50 people sang along with these guitarists (who sang well too), including harmonies. I got there around 2 pm, and stayed until about 4:15 pm. I know I sang quite spiritedly, lead and harmonies, as did many others. Mind you, it was raining, and a bit chilly, but the love there amongst the music and people, more than carried us through. I planned on going to the AMNH, but before I left, I took the liberty of saying to the musicians (I hope this was okay to do): 'I have to leave, but I want you to know, you sounded great, Joh Lennon loves you, and Yoko Ono loves you', and the musicians appreciated it, and said 'thank you'. The folks in the crowd also agreed. The Beatles songs (mostly featuring John), and the later John songs, were played and sang in unison from people of all ages, different races and ethnic backgrounds, and of course both men and women. One song they played was 'In Spite of all the Danger', and another was 'Crippled Inside'. (I held up a music sheet of that song for a couple of the musicians) Thank you John and Yoko and everybody there. I traveled to NYC for this in particular, and it was very fulfilling. read more

This is a magical place to visit. I can't go to NYC without visiting at least once. It's a great spot to just hang out. People gather with their acoustic guitars to sit on park benches around the Imagine Mosaic monument and play the songs of the Beatles. John and Yoko spent a lot of time here. It's were they would take walks and I certainly see why. It is beautiful and I always enjoy going there, day or night. read more

Strawberry Fields - Strawberry Fields Central Park NYC - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

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Yet another iconic spot in NYC, Strawberry Fields is a 2.5 acre memorial in Central Park dedicated to John Lennon. Named after the Beatles song, "Strawberry Fields Forever," this area is designated a Quiet Zone, meaning no bikes, rollerblades, skateboards, sports, amplified sound or musical instruments. I found this last part interesting since there was a man playing his guitar and singing Beatles tunes at the Imagine mosaic on my most recent visit however he didn't seem to be disturbing anyone or seem out of place. Speaking of the Imagine mosaic, it was a gift from the city of Naples, the work of Italian craftsmen, and probably the most recognizable feature of Strawberry Fields. People from all over the world congregate here to take lots of selfies; it's quite funny to see them try to get an angle of themselves and the mosaic. Others just want to sit on a bench and enjoy the solitude and remember the man and the lyrics of his famous song. read more

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I visited this place for the first time on John's birthday this year. I'd had a pretty shitty day, so seeing the crowd of people gathered around the candles, flowers, artwork, birthday cards, adorning the "Imagine" mosaic singing Beatles songs, I was overcome with the same joy that their music has brought me since I was a kid. What I would like to dock one star for is the city's new "Quiet Zone" rule that's been imposed on the area, which fines musicians that visit the site whenever they play here. It's personally upsetting when the people here that are merely trying to spread the same message as the man that this place is dedicated to, through HIS music, are being ousted and fined by the cops If you'd like to help bring music back to Strawberry Fields, sign the petition here!! http://www.strawberryfieldsnyc.com/petition/petition.htm read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

Strawberry Fields is a memorable experience, especially for Beatles fans. The "Imagine" mosaic is an absolutely beautiful tribute to John Lennon. There are always local artists and musicians playing Beatles songs. It's a vey peaceful and inspiring place to visit. It is also a short walk from the Dakota. read more

Strawberry Fields - Imagine mosaic - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

Beautiful spot practically directly across the street from the Dakota where John Lennon got shot. One time I went and there were flowers arranged in a peace sign around the perimeter and through the mosaic. Tends to be hit or miss, always swamped with tourists, most of them foreign, and depending on the group gathered, the area can be subdued or kinda active. Last time I sat on a bench and listened to the Beatles and John Lennon on my iPod for an hour. It was relaxing and a good place to take a break from walking around in 95 degree heat and oppressive humidity. The tourists get in the way and grate on your nerves after a while, hence the 3 stars. read more

This is an awe-inspiring place in Central Park. There are always people decorating the mosaic and usually folks singing. It's a wonderful experience to be able to join in on random sing-alongs. I was lucky enough to be here on Dec 8, 2000 for the 30th anniversary memorial celebration of John Lennon. The vibe of the place was joyful and anywhere you went there were groups of musicians playing Beatles and Lennon songs. White candles were passed out to everyone. We lit them before the minute of silence. It was an emotional experience, but so worth the trip! read more

Strawberry Fields - Minute of silence December 8, 2000. - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

There's no comparison. Central Park is the greatest place in the world. What a way to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. I love walking thru Strawberry Fields and then getting some rays at the great lawn. Just strolling around seeing the various statue and don't forget the castle in the 80's on the west side. Central Park, I love you read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York

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Strawberry Fields has a very special place in my heart - not only is 'Strawberry Fields Forever' my favourite song, but the 'Imagine' mosaic is a must see landmark for fans or strollers alike. Disclaimer : this is my opinion only. I think the Imagine mosaic is meant to be admired and respected, not a selfie photo opportunity. I've witnessed passerbys taking inappropriate or unimaginable photos with the mosaic. It's disrespectful to John Lennon and to the mosaic itself. Of course, this is simply my opinion, but I come to Strawberry Fields to mourn, not to take photos of it . read more

I love coming here every time I'm in NYC. I could honestly spend all day here. There is away someone there playing John Lennon/Beatles songs. It's so peaceful. They did really well with this. We all miss you, John. read more

Strawberry Fields - Parks Near Me - New York, New York