The 3 Best Ice Skating Rinks in New York
Heading to New York in winter? Why not hit the ice! Here are the 3 most famous ice skating rinks in New York where you can enjoy this classic winter activity.
1/ The Rink at Rockefeller Center in Midtown
- The Rink at Rockefeller Center is by far the most famous and popular ice skating rink in New York. It sits at the base of the giant Christmas tree, making it the place to be during the holiday season. You’ll also enjoy all the Christmas decorations throughout the Rockefeller Center.
- The downside: it’s also the most expensive rink in the city. Expect to pay $21 per person during off-peak times and up to $73 during peak season, skate rental included. But if you love ice skating, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
- What are the hours? The rink is open daily from 7 am to midnight, October 10, 2026 through March 30, 2027. Tip: ice time is organized in 60-minute sessions.
- To secure your spot, book your tickets now on the Rockefeller Center rink website.
2/ Bryant Park Winter Village in Midtown
- Just a few blocks south of Rockefeller Center, the Bryant Park Winter Village rink is the other must-visit skating spot in Midtown. The setting is quintessentially New York, with the beautiful Bryant Park transformed by winter. Plus, you get sweeping views of the SUMMIT and the Empire State Building’s spire.
- And the price is much lower than Rockefeller Center: ice time is free, and skate rental runs $19 to $67 depending on the day. Naturally, this draws crowds, so be prepared to wait if you want to get on the ice.
- What are the hours? The rink is open daily from October 28, 2026 through February 28, 2027, from 8 am to 10 pm. Extended hours until midnight from November 19, 2026 through January 3, 2027.
3/ Wollman Rink in Central Park
- Located in Central Park in the shadow of Midtown skyscrapers, Wollman Rink is New York’s largest ice skating rink. The atmosphere is very different from the first two rinks—you’ll see many local New Yorkers here. In fact, during certain hours, the rink is reserved for skating schools. The views of Central Park and Midtown are truly magical in winter.
- When is it open? The Central Park rink operates from October 24, 2026 through March 16, 2027. Hours vary by day, and you must reserve a time slot in advance on the official website. Prices also vary: $15 during off-peak times to $38 during peak season.
- Note: you can pay a small admission fee at the rink if you’d like to watch without skating.
