If visiting New York City this summer, there is a novel and delightful way to spend Monday evenings outdoors by enjoying a picnic at Bryant Park before sitting back to watch a classic movie on the big screen.

Bryant Park is located in the heart of Manhattan, just a stone's throw - well two blocks to the east to be exact - from Grand Central Station. A fraction of the size of its illustrious city sister Central Park, Bryant Park dates back to 1686, when New York governor Thomas Dongan declared the plot to be public property. At the time it was an untamed wilderness that provided hunting grounds for Native Americans, but throughout its colourful 323 year history it has always remained an area under public ownership.

In 1853 the site of today's Bryant Park housed a spectacular Crystal Palace, hosting New York's first ‘world fair'. Unfortunately the impressive steel and glass construction remained standing for only five years before it burned down in 1858. A further five years later, at the height of the American Civil War the site was used as a drill square for Union Army troops. It wasn't until 1884 that Bryant Park acquired its name in honour of the poet and editor William Cullen Bryant who died in 1878.

During the 1930s the park sadly descended into a state of disrepair, which was compounded when it became a storage area for construction materials and debris from the building of the subway. However, Robert Moses, parks commissioner of New York ran a competition to redesign the park which was won by Lusby Simpson, an architect from Queens. His French classical design was delivered within a year and the park re-opened to a glorious fanfare.

However, by 1979 the park had again fallen into disrepair and it wasn't until 1992 that it was renovated and reopened to acclaim from citizens, media and visitors alike. Now, the park is resplendent and well-kempt and features Summer Movie screenings every Monday from mid-June to late August. You won't find any mention of the park in airline magazines on flights to New York, as New Yorkers tend to want to keep this little free attraction to themselves, although anyone can attend.

For the best experience get there early at 5.00 p.m. when park keepers open the grassed areas to the public and claim your space by spreading out your picnic blanket. Taking food and drink completes the experience but don't overdo the beverage consumption as it can be tough getting to the bathroom!

Bryant Park Summer Movie 2009 screening presentations include dramatic classics such as ‘How Green was my Valley' and the sci-fi spectacular ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind', but if the weather is inclement programmes are cancelled. So, if that happens get on the subway and head for Times Square instead, where its attractions can be enjoyed in all weathers!

Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.