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Central Park Photos
Stone steps leading to The Mall beneath autumn trees in Central Park

Photoshoot Location Guide

The Mall & Literary Walk

A cathedral of American elms

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Why photographers love The Mall & Literary Walk

The Mall is the only intentionally straight line in Central Park, and it was made for photographs: a quarter-mile promenade beneath one of the largest remaining stands of American elms in North America. Fiery in autumn, cathedral-green in summer, and elegantly stark in winter.

Location guide

Visiting The Mall & Literary Walk

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What is the Literary Walk on The Mall?

The southern end of The Mall is lined with statues of writers — Shakespeare, Robert Burns, Walter Scott — beneath the largest remaining stand of American elms in North America. The cathedral of branches overhead is the signature look.

When do The Mall elms show fall color?

Late October through mid-November the elm canopy turns brilliant gold — the most in-demand two weeks of our calendar. Golden-hour slots for foliage season book 6–8 weeks out.

Is The Mall good for large group photos?

Yes — the wide, flat promenade comfortably fits multi-generation family groups and graduation parties, with room to step back for full-group compositions no other park location allows.

Book your shoot at The Mall & Literary Walk

Photography packages at The Mall & Literary Walk start at $695 and include expert timing, location planning, and a full edited gallery within 5 days.

Free weather reschedule · Gallery in 5 days · From $695