A Quick Highlight To Our In-depth Guide To Ice Skating in New York City.
Winter in New York City transforms the bustling metropolis into a magical wonderland, with ice skating rinks scattered across iconic locations. Whether you are a seasoned skater or a first-timer, these rinks offer an enchanting experience that captures the festive spirit of the city. In this quick guide, we will provide you with a snapshot of the best ice skating spots, along with essential details and tips for an unforgettable winter adventure. With this City Snapshot guide to Ice Skating in New York City you have access to all of the highlights without too much information.
READ OUR IN-DEPTH GUIDE HERE
AN IN-DEPTH GUIDE TO ICE SKATING IN NEW YORK CITY
1. The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Gliding at The Rink at Rockefeller Center is more than just skating. It is a timeless journey through New York’s fairytale, framed by iconic landmarks, promising memories against the city’s energetic backdrop.
- Location: 600 5th Avenue—
- Ambiance: Twinkling city lights, Art Deco vibes
- Unique Feature: Hotspot for holiday proposals
- Pricing: General admission $11-$73, VIP Skate $47-$125, Rinkside Chalet $10-$60
- Public Skating Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to midnight
Tip: Book a Rinkside Chalet for a private après skate experience with snacks, drinks, and a view of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
2. Wollman Rink Central Park
Wollman Rink, nestled by Gapstow Bridge, is not just about ice. It is about New York’s classic skyline as your backdrop, turning every spin and glide into a grand experience, capturing the magic of iconic movie scenes in real life.
- Location: Southeast corner of Central Park
- Charm: Classic New York City skyline backdrop
- Events: Featured in movies like ‘Serendipity’ and ‘Home Alone 2’
- Pricing: Adults $15-$37, kids under three skate for free
- Public Skating Hours: Monday – Tuesday 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM, Wednesday – Thursday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Friday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tip: Take advantage of skating classes to boost your confidence on the ice.
3. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
The Winter Village at Bryant Park is not just the largest free-admission rink in New York City. It is a complete icy wonderland. Glide under the city lights, then cozy up in an igloo or unwind at The Lodge for a festive après skate experience.
- Location: Bryant Park—Midtown Manhattan
- Size: 17,000 square feet, largest free-admission rink in New York City
- Experience: Immersive winter village with igloos and The Lodge Rinkside Bar + Food Hall
- Pricing: Free admission [if you bring your skates], skate rental $18 to $55
- Public Skating Hours: The rink operates daily from October 27, 2023, through March 3, 2024, with extended hours on weekends and holidays in November and December, staying open from 8 AM to midnight.
Tip: Visit during off-peak times for a more budget-friendly experience.
4. The Rink at Brookfield Place with Gregory & Petukhov
Beyond just an ice rink, Brookfield Place transforms into a winter wonderland, offering budget-friendly skating experiences. With Olympians Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov, it becomes a canvas for unforgettable moments and learning under expert guidance.
- Location: Southwest corner of Manhattan
- Affordability: Public skating from $15
- Extras: Private lessons with Olympians Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov
- Events: Transforms into a festive hub during the holidays
- Public Skating Hours: With time slots from Monday – Friday 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM, 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM, 5:45 PM – 6:45 PM, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM, and 8:15 PM – 9:15 PM. On Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 9:00 AM -10:00 AM, 10:15 AM -11:15 AM, 11:30 AM -12:30 PM, 12:45 PM -1:45 PM, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM, 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM, 5:45 PM – 6:45 PM, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM and 8:15 PM – 9:15 PM.
Tip: Opt for private lessons with Olympians for a unique and personalized experience.
5. World Ice Arena
The World Ice Arena in Flushing is more than just an indoor rink. It is a figure skating and hockey hub, welcoming everyone from novices to pros. Inclusive pricing and public skating sessions provide year-round icy fun for families and enthusiasts.
- Location: Flushing Meadows Corona Park—Queens
- Accessibility: Open all year round
- Inclusivity: Catering to figure skating, hockey, and recreational skating
- Pricing: Adults $8 [weekdays], $12 [weekends and holidays after 7 PM]
- Public Skating Hours: Varies; check the website for details
Tip: Enjoy public skating sessions seven days a week, offering flexibility for your schedule.
6. Sky Skate at Edge in Hudson Yards
Skating at Sky Skate is not just about ice. It is about elevating your experience to new heights. The Edge observation deck offers unparalleled views while gliding on a Glice® rink, creating a unique, all-weather adventure suspended above the city.
- Location: Edge observation deck, Hudson Yards
- Height: Highest skating rink in New York City
- Pricing: $48 includes a 30-minute skate, complimentary rental, and access to the Edge observation deck
- Public Skating Hours: November 27 to December 14 – 2 PM to 8 PM, December 15 to January 7 – 10 AM to 9 PM, and January 8 to January 14 – 3 PM to 7 PM.
Tip: Book tickets early, as the Sky Skate season is limited to two months.
7. Governor’s Island Winter Village Ice Skating Rink
Governor’s Island Winter Village is not an ordinary rink. It is a sprawling wonderland with expanded access for furry friends. From free admission Thursdays to special dog programming, it is a place where enchantment meets inclusivity.
- Location: Governor’s Island
- Season: December 1st, 2023, to April 30th, 2024
- Special Feature: Winter Dog Days for canine companions
- Pricing: Weekdays $12, Weekends $13, Free Admission Thursdays
- Public Skating Hours: December 1st through April 30th, 2024. Varies; check the website for details
Tip: Arrive early for Free Admission on Thursdays as it is first-come, first-served.
8. Glide at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Glide at Brooklyn Bridge Park is a fusion of Brooklyn’s charm and ice skating thrill beneath an iconic bridge. With stunning skyline views and a café offering a culinary journey, it’s a must-visit for a unique winter adventure.
- Location: DUMBO neighborhood beneath the Brooklyn Bridge
- Setting: Stunning Manhattan skyline backdrop
- Culinary Delight: Bluestone Cafe at the Chase Pavilion
- Pricing: Adults $15-$25, Kids $10-$12 [NYC resident discounts available]
- Public Skating Hours: Skate sessions are 50 minutes long and begin at 10 AM, 11AM, 12 PM, 1:15 PM, 2:15 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 5:45 PM, 6:45 PM, 7:55 PM, and 8:55 PM. The schedule subject to change
Tip: Secure tickets online for convenience and avoid the wait.
9. LeFrak Center at Lakeside
LeFrak Center at Lakeside is a year-round destination with covered and open-air skating surfaces. It transforms Brooklyn’s Prospect Park into a scenic haven, blending history with modern amenities and activities for everyone.
- Location: Prospect Park—Brooklyn
- Versatility: Combined 32,000 square feet of skating surface, covered and open-air
- Year-Round: Offers activities like roller skating during warmer months
- Pricing: Weekdays $9.25, Weekends $13.50, Skate Rentals $9.50
- Public Skating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11 AM – 7 PM and Friday + Saturday: 11 AM – 8:30 PM
Tip: Explore the Bluestone Cafe at the Chase Pavilion for post-skating snacks and drinks.
10. Industry City Ice Rink
The IC Ice Rink at Industry City is a hidden gem in Brooklyn, offering affordability and an authentic local experience. With diverse food options, it provides a chill alternative for ice skating enthusiasts.
- Location: Industry City, Brooklyn
- Affordability: Reasonable admission and skate rental fees
- Atmosphere: Authentic Brooklyn charm
- Timing: Open from 4 PM to 8 PM on Thursdays and Fridays, 10 AM to 8 PM on Saturdays and Sundays
Tip: Explore nearby food spots like Reggae Town Cafe for a culinary adventure.
11. Abe Stark Skating Rink
Abe Stark Skating Rink is a tribute to Brooklyn’s history, capturing the spirit of Coney Island. Opened in 1970, it stands as a unique blend of nostalgia and a welcoming space for skaters of all levels.
- Location: 1902 W 19th Street, Brooklyn
- History: Tribute to Abe Stark, part of Brooklyn’s rich history
- Affordability: $11 for adults, seniors, and children. And skate rental $6
- Facilities: Complete with locker rooms, skate rental concession, and first aid station
- Public Skating Hours: Saturday through Sunday 12:30 to 4 PM
Tip: Immerse yourself in the historical significance of the rink, connecting with Brooklyn’s past.
12. Disney’s The Santa Clauses Winter Wonderland at Pier 17
Disney’s The Santa Clauses Winter Wonderland is a holiday extravaganza inspired by a beloved film franchise. With a rooftop setting and special treats, it’s where enchantment and Disney magic meet ice-skating joy.
- Location: South Street Seaport’s Pier 17
- Theme: Inspired by Disney’s Santa Clause film franchise
- Extras: Private glass houses for dining, Santa’s Living Room, VIP Lounge
Season: November 22nd to January 7th - Public Skating Hours: Running from November 22nd to January 7th—Multiple Dates and Times
Tip: Upgrade to a VIP ticket for exclusive perks and an enhanced skating experience.
13. Winter Whirl Roller Rink
Winter Whirl Roller Rink at Westfield World Trade Center is an immersive, festive experience. It is located in the Oculus and offers a unique twist on skating, complete with live music and special events.
- Location: Westfield World Trade Center, Lower Manhattan
- Duration: Open from November 24 to January 2024
- Experience: Immersive roller skating with live music and special events
- Pricing: Adults $30, Minors $25 [includes roller skate rental]
- Public Skating Hours: Open from November 24 to January 2024—Open Wednesday through Sunday, with the last admission at 9 PM
Tip: Book your slot in advance to secure your spot in the festive fun.
14. The Rink at Manhattan West
Lace up your skates and glide into a world of winter magic at The Rink at Manhattan West, where each spin and twirl tells a story of enchantment in the city that never sleeps.
- Location: The Rink at Manhattan West, 385 Ninth Avenue—Manhattan West Plaza.
- Pricing: Weekdays: $16 admission, $6 skate rental
Weekends: $18 admission, $8 skate rental - Highlights: Star-Studded Guidance: Olympians Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov host, offering expert guidance.
- Upscale Accessibility: A blend of fun and elegance, perfect for dates, family outings, or hangouts.
- Public Skating Hours: Weekdays: 3:15 PM to 8:15 PM [one-hour slots]
- Weekends/Holidays: Flexible schedule for early birds and late risers.
Tip: Arrive Early to eat the crowds and enjoy a smoother skating experience.
15. Chelsea Piers Sky Rink
Chelsea Piers Sky Rink is a year-round haven for skaters of all levels. With a professional staff, diverse programs, and a location near Hudson River Park, it provides an exceptional escape for skating enthusiasts.
- Location: 61 Chelsea Piers, near 23rd Street and Hudson River Park
- Availability: Year-round
- Programs: Diverse range for skaters of all levels
- Pricing: General Skating starts at $22.50
- Public Skating Hours: Operating from mid-November through March 2024—Hours Vary; check the website for details
Tip: Take advantage of the Skating School for professional guidance and skill development.
Wrap-Up
As we conclude our whirlwind tour of New York City’s ice rinks, remember that each rink offers a unique slice of the city’s winter magic. Whether you are soaring above the city lights at Sky Skate or embracing Brooklyn’s charm at Glide, these rinks are more than frozen surfaces—they are gateways to unforgettable memories. So, lace up those skates, dive into the frosty enchantment, and let the magic of winter in the Big Apple unfold before you! Until next time, stay warm and keep the spirit of winter alive on the
