The southernmost part of Central Park , below Terrace Drive , contains several children 's attractions as well as the flagship features of the park . It contains many of the structures built in Central Park 's initial stage of construction , which are designed in the Victorian Gothic style . Directly facing the southeastern shore of the Lake is a bi-level hall called Bethesda Terrace , which contains an elaborate fountain on its lower level . Bethesda Terrace connects to Central Park Mall , a landscaped walkway and the only formal feature in the Greensward Plan . Near the southwestern shore of the lake is Strawberry Fields , a memorial to John Lennon who was killed nearby ; Sheep Meadow , a lawn originally intended for use as a parade ground ; and Tavern on the Green , a restaurant . The southern border of Central Park contains the " Children 's District " , an area that includes August Heckscher Playground , the Central Park Carousel , the Ballplayers House , and the Chess and Checkers House . Wollman Rink/Victorian Gardens , the Central Park Zoo and Children 's Zoo , the NYC Parks headquarters at the Arsenal , and the Pond and Hallett Nature Sanctuary are located nearby
killed nearby
Murder of John Lennon
Central Park