Post Overview: Roundup of the best places to ice skate in NYC.
The holiday season is as magical as you’d imagine, and to ice skate in NYC among towering skyscrapers can make anyone feel like they’re in a Hallmark movie.
I can tell you from firsthand experience there is no shortage of great ice rinks in New York City to try your hand at pirouettes or hockey. The benefit is that you’re not being scouted for the olympics, so you can relax and put your energy towards not falling.
Having lived in the Big Apple for more than five years, my tush has become a little too familiar with the ice (finding your balance is hard, ok?). With much trial and error here is my personal list of the best ice rinks in New York City!
Note for the reader: All prices listed below are for the 2023-2024 season. Prices are subject to change at any time, we try our best to stay on top of it and update this post as soon as we notice a change.
Best Ice Skating in New York City
Wollman Rink (Central Park)
Dates: October 28, 2023 – March 12, 2024
Ice skating in NYC is one of the most popular things to do during the holidays and few locations are as iconic as Wollman Rink in Central Park. Since its opening in 1950, Central Park’s ice skating rink has served as a popular gathering place for generations.
Located in the southern part of the Park, the city skyline serves as a backdrop to the rink, making for a memorable experience.
The rink is open from late October through early March so there’s plenty of time to partake. My suggestion is to visit in early November so you can enjoy ice skating in Central Park surrounded by beautiful fall foliage.
The winter activity comes at a high-demand and gets crowded quickly, especially during the Christmas season. Try to visit during the week and arrive early to avoid mind-boggling crowds.
Pricing:
- Adults: $15 (Mon.-Thurs.) & $26 (Fri.-Sun. & holidays).
- Seniors (60 & older): $10.00
- Children (11 & under) $10.00
- Skate Rental: $11.
- Lock Rental: $7
Note: Wollman Rink is CASH-ONLY, but there’s an ATM onsite.
Address: 830 5th Ave, New York, NY 10065
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Dates: October 27, 2023 – March 3, 2024
During the holiday season, Bryant Park is transformed into a European-style holiday market, equipped with 100 vendors that line one of the most popular New York City ice skating rinks.
The 17,000-square foot NYC ice skating rink is free to use if you have your own skates, otherwise rentals are available for a fee. Open 8:00AM to 10:00PM (Mon-Thur) & 8:00AM-11:30PM (Fri-Sun), ice skating in NYC should fit into any itinerary with ease.
After you’re done enjoying one of the most iconic ice skating rinks in New York City, grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine and explore the market. The stalls sell fun Christmas decorations, handmade crafts, unique jewelry and light bites.
Pricing:
- Free (if you have your own skates)
- Skate rental: $15-$45 (prices vary by date)
- Lock Rental: $5 (1 person), $12 (2-4 people), $15 (5+ people)
Address: Bryant Park (Between 40th and 42nd Streets)
Further reading: Bryant Park’s Winter Village is home to No Chewing Allowed, one of the top 20 Cozy Cups of Cocoa in New York City.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Dates: October 21, 2023 – March 24, 2024
The Rockefeller Center is perhaps the first place that comes to mind when considering ice skating in New York City. Which is not surprising given that it’s among NYC’s best ice rinks.
When the ice rink first opened on Christmas Day in 1936, it served as a temporary draw for customers of the struggling upscale stores housed in the brand-new Rockefeller Center during the Great Depression.
Fast forward to present day, the famed ice rink surpassed all expectation and was so popular it became a permanent staple of New York City winters.
Ice skating in NYC has become a tradition that few can pass up on and many look forward to. Skaters can expect to skate for about an hour from entry time on their ticket. Guests are also allowed to bring their own skates.
Pricing:
- Session: $21 – $73 ( depending on the date and time of day)
- Skate Rental: $11
Address: 600 5th Avenue, Rockefeller Center, New York, NY 10020
Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland (Pier 17)
Dates: November 22, 2023 – January 7, 2024
Located on the rooftop of Pier 17, yes rooftop — one of the most exciting ice skating rinks to open up this year is Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland. Try saying that three times real fast.
The rooftop is transformed into a 65,000 square-foot winter oasis, including Santa’s headquarters, a fully decorated Christmas tree and an enchanting ice rink over looking the city. Parents, feel free to tell your kids this is the North Pole (it’s really that magical).
Tickets are sold both for general admission with a complimentary hot cocoa or VIP tickets that comes with many more perks (including admission to the ice rink).
Since this is an experience and not just an ice rink, prices for tickets will vary. Check out the official website here and purchase your tickets in advance.
Glide at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Dates: Season ends March 1, 2024
Nestled under the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, Glide at Brooklyn Bridge Park is the newest addition to NYC’s ice skating scene.
Folks get the opportunity to skate beneath the bridge as projections of the epic skyline are broadcasted in sync with the sunset. And once you’ve skated to your hearts desire, make your way over to the nearby cafe and sip on some cocoa while you regain your body-heat.
Pricing:
- Adults: $15 or $25 (during peak)
- Children (12 & under) $10.00 or $12 (during peak)
- Skate Rental: $12
- Lock Rental: $5
- Skate Aids: $20
Address: Emily Warren Roebling Plaza at Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn, NY 11201
The Rink at Manhattan West
Dates: Season ends March 31, 2024
The Rink at Manhattan West is the new kid on the block, first opening in 2021.
Located at Manhattan West, a plaza made up of shops, restaurants and office buildings, this outdoor rink is one of the best places to go ice skating in New York City.
A unique perk of visiting this rink is that there is an NHL store on-site. This way you can pick up your favorite team’s jersey and then enjoy the day skating.
Ice skating in NYC is such a sought-after activity that popular ice rinks get crowded quickly, so I’m going to let you in on a little secret. This is one of the best ice rinks in New York City because not many people know about it yet, making it less crowded.
Pricing:
- Session: $20
- Skate Rental: $5
- Skate Aid Rental: $15
Address: 385 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10001
The Rink at Brookfield Place
Dates: Season ends March 31, 2024
At Brookfield Place, we have an ice skating rink that is sister to The Rink in Manhattan West.
Located in lower Manhattan, this 7,350-square-foot ice rink allows you to show off your skills and enjoy the fresh crisp air while ice skating in NYC right next to the Hudson River. There are views of the One World Trade Center and Jersey City across the river.
My suggestion is to visit during sunset. The cotton candy skies make ice skating in New York City super charming and romantic. And once the sun has set, the building lights illuminate the skyline like a scene out of a movie.
Pricing:
- Session: $17
- Skate Rental: $5
- Skate Aid Rental: $15
Address: Three World Financial Center, 230 Vesey St, New York, NY 10281
Industry City
Dates: Season ends March 3, 2024
Comprised of 16 buildings across 35 acres, Industry City sits on the Brooklyn waterfront located in Sunset Park.
The large industrial complex was established back in the 1890’s and the space was used for manufacturing and distributing. Chock-full of events, eateries and shops, Industry City has it all.
They also happen to have one of the best ice rinks in NYC during the winter months. The rink is not big or flashy, but the setting alone warrants the visit. You can spend some time on the ice, grab lunch and go shopping all in one go.
Pricing:
- Session: $15
- Skate Rental: $10
Address: 51 35th St, Brooklyn, NY 11232
Sky Rink Chelsea Piers
Dates: Year- Round
This year-round NYC ice skating rink has been a local favorite for more than 50 years and is open for business seven days a week. The rink hosts general skating sessions five days a week for skaters of all ages and all skill levels.
Since this New York City ice skating rink is open all year, Sky Rink also offers many camps and classes for those interested in learning how to ice skate.
Located on Pier 61 at the Chelsea Piers, the ice rink is exposed to views of the Hudson River. It makes for one of the most beautiful backdrops while ice skating in NYC.
Pricing:
- Session: $20
- Skate Rental: $10
- Helmet: $5
Address: 61 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011
LeFrak Center at Lakeside
Dates: Year- Round
In Brooklyn’s Prospect Park you’ll find the LeFrak Center at Lakeside. It’s one of the best places to go ice skating in NYC, consisting of 2 connected rinks. One is covered with a pavilion style roof, and the other is under the open sky surrounded beautiful foliage.
Ever since opening in 2013, the LeFrak Center has grown in popularity and welcomes over 200,000 visitors annually. The big number shouldn’t come as a surprise though, since it is opened year-round.
In January of 2015, the LeFrak Center was awarded a 2015 Honor Award by the American Institute of Architects, (the highest honor in the world of architecture). Did I mention that there were nearly 500 candidates? Impressive!
My biggest suggestion is if you’re looking to skate under the roof, purchase your tickets for the covered rink ahead of time online. This way you’re guaranteed a spot at this beautiful ice rink in New York City.
Address: 171 East Dr, Brooklyn, NY 11225
Tips for Ice Skating in New York City
Bundle up
There’s no sense in sugarcoating it, NYC is COLD during the winter season. Especially when ice skating in NYC. Make sure to pack comfortable shoes, a heavy wool or down coat, high-quality gloves and a reliable hat.
Also, these bad boys don’t hurt (I never leave the house without them when I know I’ll be ice skating in NYC).
Bring extra socks
Trust me on this one and learn from my mistakes. Ice skates hurt if you’re not used to them, I highly recommend wearing a pair of thicker socks when ice skating in New York City. Not to mention, if you’re renting skates you’ll probably want a fresh pair of socks after you’re all done.
Bring a drawstring bag
It’s no surprise that New York City is an expensive city, so finding ways to save money can go a long way. If I know I’m going ice skating in NYC, I make sure to bring a drawstring bag for my shoes and belongings.
This way I’m able to save on any locker cost.
New York City Skating Rinks (Post Summary)
- Wollman Rink
- Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
- The Rink at Rockefeller Center
- Sky Rink Chelsea Piers
- Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland (Pier 17)
- Glide at Brooklyn Bridge Park
- The Rink at Manhattan West
- The Rink at Brookfield Place
- Industry City
- LeFrak Center at Lakeside
Map of the Best Ice Skating in NYC
And there you have it my friends, my suggestions on where to find the best ice skating in NYC.
Hope to see you on the ice!
Cheers.
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