You don’t have to wait for snow (or winter) to go ice skating in NYC! Several of the city’s outdoor ice skating rinks are open now — with others soon to follow. Here are our favorites!
LessThis iconic New York City skating opens November 21, but you can, and should, reserve tickets now, especially because it closes early on January 17 this season. The rink is a favorite of tourists and locals alike, providing views of Rockefeller Center and its world-famous Christmas tree.
This iconic rink is surrounded by gorgeous views of the park and NYC skyline and makes for a great, fun-filled day in Manhattan. Masks are required, and skaters' temperatures will be check before entering. Admission for adults is $12 Monday-Thursday and $19 Friday-Sunday. Kids 12 and under can skate for $6 any day of the week and skate rentals cost $10. You can also pay a $5 spectator fee if you're more of a watcher than a skater.
One of the most popular skating rinks in NYC—in part because it's free to skate here if you bring your own blades—the experience at the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, which includes the rink, is slightly different this year due to safety protocols. It is now a completely outdoor experience, and reservations and skate rentals must be made in advance online. Fewer skaters will be on the ice at one time and additional cleaning protocols will be implemented.
Lasker Rink is the other rink in Central Park (i.e., not Wollman) and it's much less crowded than it's famous counterpart. There's also no time limit on how long you can skate here. Lasker Rink is also comprised of two rinks, one for public skating and the other for a skate school that includes lessons in hockey and of course, ice skating. (Registration is open now, FYI.) Masks, temperature checks and social distancing is required, and it's cash only here.
If it's a view you're after, this rink should be first on your list. Skaters can take in amazing sights such as the Statue of Liberty and views of the New York Harbor. It also offers parent-child lessons and hockey classes for kids! If you need a bathroom or a bite to eat, head over to the adjacent Brookfield Place for a myriad of shopping and restaurants.
The start of the season at this popular Brooklyn ice skating rink was delayed, but it opened on November 27. Skating sessions will be 90-minutes in length this year to manage capacity, and while some walk-up tickets may be available, it is highly recommended you buy your tickets in advance. A rink with a unique layout—it's actually two: one open air, one covered—the LeFrak at Lakeside rink is nestled in a southern corner of Prospect Park, so it also provides some nice winter views.
Yes, the outdoor ice rink is back for the 2020 holiday season at Industry City in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. (This year, you can also roller skate at the complex thanks to Lola Star's Dreamland Roller Disco.) Officially known as The Industry City Ice Skating Rink Powered by Volvo Car USA, the petite, uncovered rink offers a festive and friendly vibe and is just the right size for taking a few spins. You can grab some hot cocoa and snacks from nearby vendors.
This year-round indoor rink located in Flushing Meadows Park in Queens is not currently open for public open skate. However, it is operating classes, hockey and freestyle skate sessions. Skaters must sign health and risk acceptance waivers to enter.