Wonderland awaits. Right here in Central Park stands the Alice in Wonderland statue a whimsical bronze world. Created in 1959 by José de Creeft this isn’t just a statue. It’s a playground. A gift from philanthropist George Delacorte to the children of New York City. He dedicated it to his late wife Margarita a lover of Lewis Carroll’s tale.
The statue depicts Alice the Mad Hatter the White Rabbit and the Cheshire Cat. Notice the intricate details. They mirror John Tenniel’s original illustrations. Children climb and explore this interactive artwork. It’s more than just a pretty picture.
The faces are remarkably expressive. Alice’s face is modeled after de Creeft’s daughter Donna Maria. The Mad Hatter? That’s George Delacorte himself immortalized in bronze. Look closely at the base. Inscriptions from Carroll’s “Jabberwocky” are etched into the stone. Even the names of Delacorte’s grandchildren are there. Little Donna’s name is among them.
The location is perfect. Near the East 74th Street entrance it sits beside the Conservatory Water. Rent a sailboat and let the children play. Then explore the Hans Christian Andersen statue nearby. This area is a hub of literary magic within Central Park.
More than just a statue the Alice in Wonderland sculpture is a testament to imagination and childhood joy. A place where stories come to life for generations to come. A place where every child can feel like they’ve tumbled down the rabbit hole and into a world of wonder.