Exploring the Best Ice Skating Rinks in NYC
Ice skating in New York City is an absolutely beautiful experience. There’s something calming about gently gliding on a patch of ice surrounded by the city as Manhattan’s skyline reaches into the misty winter sky above the millions bustling through the city’s streets. As all of those people run to buy gifts or hurry to work, you simply skate, savoring the serenity of coasting through this wild town. Don’t forget to add a little peace to your holiday season by checking out some of the best ice skating rinks in NYC.
The Rink at Bryant Park Winter Village
The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is always one of our go-to spots for holiday shopping—with some stellar food options, too. It’s also home to a gorgeous rink, open through March 4. Admission is free, but skate rentals run $20. Zip laps with skyscraper views while listening to the Winter Village’s soundtrack of classic Christmas jingles.
Wollman Skating Rink in Central Park
Looking over the Wollman Rink.
It’s difficult to imagine a more magical space for ice skating. Surrounded by the vast wonder that is Central Park with the tall city hovering beyond, the Wollman Rink in Central Park provides this incredible sense of being in the middle of the woods and the greatest city in the world at the exact same time. With youth hockey training and adult pond hockey leagues, figure skating, birthday parties and more, there’s plenty to participate in and observe in Central Park. Considering its wondrous atmosphere and unparalleled services, it’s safe to say that the Wollman Rink in Central Park is, hands down, one of the best rinks in the city.
The Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center
The flags, the golden statue, New York City’s favorite Christmas Tree and the ice rink are the main pillars of Rockefeller Center’s iconic holiday display. The rink itself, beloved by visitors and New York natives both, is a symbol and stage for the holiday cheer of the winter months. Visitors can enjoy the scenery from one of several onsite eateries or dive right into the middle of it and skate this distinguished New York City rink.
The Rink at Brookfield Place
A relative newcomer in Manhattan, Brookfield Place’s riverside rink opened in 2013 at the renovated retail hub across the street from One World Trade. Smaller than other rinks in the city, it also has fewer crowds (most visitors don’t know it’s here). We love the rink for its sweeping Hudson River views.
