Strawberry Fields

Imagine all the people this Beatles singer touched, as you inspect the mosaic and flowers that pay tribute to his life.

The Strawberry Fields - John Lennon Memorial is a monument in a picturesque landscaped garden in Central Park. Named after one of the Beatles’ most iconic songs, the memorial commemorates the singer who was tragically gunned down in New York in 1980. Admire the elegance of the monument and stroll through the majestic gardens.

Enter the park across the road from the Dakota apartment building, where Lennon lived. He was shot outside this prestigious complex, which has been the home for other celebrities such as actress Judy Garland, football coach John Madden and composer Leonard Bernstein.

Examine the monument, which consists of a circular mosaic with the inscription “Imagine,” in reference to Lennon’s most iconic solo hit. Lay flowers on the memorial, which is frequently surrounded by candles and pairs of glasses similar to the ones Lennon wore.

Consider the singer’s life and music as you sit on one of the many benches that decorate the path around the mosaic. A nearby plaque contains a list of nations that contributed to the monument’s funding.

Stroll past the shrubs and mature trees that flank the path around the memorial. This designated quiet zone has rock outcroppings carved by glaciers. Embark on the woodland walk to see the rhododendrons, hollies and pink magnolias among the floral displays.

Arrive at the memorial on October 9 to celebrate Lennon’s birthday or December 8 for the anniversary of his death, when fans gather to play Imagine.

The park was designed 5 years after Lennon’s death and unveiled on the day the singer would have turned 45. Note that the mayor of New York and Lennon’s widow Yoko Ono played a part in the project. Ono still lives in the Dakota.

The Strawberry Fields - John Lennon Memorial is in the southwestern corner of Central Park. It is on the western flank of the Lake, near the Bethesda Fountain, the New York Historical Society and the Sheep Meadow. Ride the metro to 72 Street and walk east for several minutes to reach the memorial.