Where to Ice Skate in NYC This Winter
Lace up those skates and hit the ice at these cool NYC rinks.
Ice in New York City usually means one of two things: slipping and falling on city sidewalks, or skating on one of the city’s iconic rinks. As New Yorkers, we enthusiastically recommend the latter. If you agree — and we hope you do — you’ll love these iconic spots to lace up your skates and go for a spin.
1. Rockefeller Center
Over the years, the Rockefeller Center ice skating rink has cemented its position as the world’s most famous rink — so be prepared to wait in some serious lines for your chance on the ice. Once you gain entry, however, you’ll enjoy smaller crowds than at other popular spots — only 150 people are allowed on the ice at a time. With an early opening time and reservations available, a little advance planning can help you beat the crowds.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center is located at 5th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets.
2. Bryant Park
Admission is free at this winter wonderland, but skate rentals will cost you $20. Located within the Instagram-worthy Bank of America Winter Village, Bryant Park’s tree-lined rink offers beautiful 360 views of the city. A bustling holiday market and famous foodie destinations are close by, so make a day (or date) of it and explore all that Midtown has to offer.
The Rink at Bryant Park is located at 6th Avenue between 40th and 42nd Streets.
3. Central Park
At 843 acres, it’s no surprise that Central Park boasts more than one ice skating rink. That said, the largest and most popular spot is Wollman Rink, a 30,000-square-foot venue that’s perfect for skaters of any age or level of expertise. It can be crowded on the weekends, but you won’t have to leave the park to get some breathing room for those triple axels: Lasker Rink, located at the northern tip of the park, is less-frequented and offers a bit more space for serious skaters (as well as hockey players!) to hone their technique.
Wollman and Lasker Rinks are located within Central Park in upper Manhattan.
4. Chelsea Piers
If outdoor rinks are a bit too brisk for you in the winter months, Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers boasts temperature-controlled indoor space for your skating comfort. Located near the Hudson River waterfront, Sky Rink has two NHL-sized rinks open for general skating every afternoon (except Wednesdays), with extended weekend hours. The best part: you’ll still have a view overlooking the Hudson through the rink’s large windows.
Sky Rink At Chelsea Piers is located at 61 Chelsea Piers.
5. Brookfield Place
The rink at Brookfield Place, located in Battery Park, is the perfect venue for downtown skaters. The rink has partnerships with Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov, who offer a variety of ice skating classes for all levels. With skyline views and close proximity to the shops and restaurants at Brookfield Place, you can sharpen your skills during open skate before enjoying a relaxing meal and some window shopping.
The Rink at Brookfield Place is located at 230 Vesey Street.
Whether you’re ice skating in Central Park or enjoying a hot beverage at a cozy cocktail bar, winter in New York City offers something for everyone. And with Affinia’s Free Nights deal, you’ll have plenty of time to take advantage of it all: book four nights for the price of three, or three nights for the price of two at participating Affinia hotels.
