The Dakota is a historic apartment building at 1 West 72nd Street, on Central Park West across from Central Park. Completed in 1884, it was designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, who also designed the Plaza Hotel. Its German Renaissance style, stonework and heavy arches make the exterior worth a closer look. The building is also known as John Lennon’s former home; he lived there with Yoko Ono and was killed outside its entrance in 1980. The Dakota is a private residence, so admire it from the sidewalk.
The Dakota’s architecture
The Dakota stands at the northwest corner of West 72nd Street and Central Park West. Henry Janeway Hardenbergh designed the building, which was completed in 1884. Its German Renaissance style, stone exterior and heavy arches give it a distinctive presence on the block. Hardenbergh also designed the Plaza Hotel.
The Dakota was built as a luxury apartment building and is now a residential co-op. Its exterior is the part visitors can view from the public sidewalk; the building itself is not open for sightseeing.
John Lennon and the Dakota
John Lennon lived at The Dakota with Yoko Ono from 1973 until 1980. On December 8, 1980, he was shot outside the building’s entrance. The event remains part of the site’s history, and people stop outside to remember him.
The archway is part of a private residence, so keep to public areas rather than entering or gathering in restricted spaces. Across Central Park West, Strawberry Fields in Central Park is a memorial dedicated to Lennon.
Where to look
From the sidewalk at 1 West 72nd Street, take in the stonework, arches and roofline. The building sits directly across from Central Park, making it easy to continue on foot to Strawberry Fields. Seeing the exterior in daylight and after dark gives you two different views of the same landmark.
Preguntas frecuentes
Can you go inside The Dakota?
The Dakota is a residential co-op, not a public attraction. Admire the building from the sidewalk and do not enter restricted areas.
Where is The Dakota?
It is at 1 West 72nd Street, on the corner of Central Park West across from Central Park.
What is The Dakota known for?
It is an 1884 apartment building designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh and the former home of John Lennon, who was killed outside its entrance in 1980.
Is Strawberry Fields near The Dakota?
Yes. Strawberry Fields, a memorial to John Lennon, is across Central Park West in Central Park.
