17 Special Places to Go Ice Skating in NYC

Ice skating in New York City is a winter tradition that offers both locals and tourists a uniquely exciting outdoor experience. With numerous icerinks in NYC, there are plenty of options throughout the five boroughs, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater. From the iconic Rockefeller Center rink to the stunning waterfront views at the Brookfield Place rink, ice skating in NYC provides a perfect blend of city entertainment and outdoor exercise. Most of these rinks are beautifully surrounded by city skyscrapers, creating a magical atmosphere for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date, a fun family activity, or just a way to enjoy the winter outdoors, ice skating in New York City is a must-try experience.

New to Ice Skating in NYC? 

Even though ice skating is one of the most popular winter activities in NYC; it’s NOT easy for everyone. So that you have a seamless and safe experience, here are my top tips for first timers.

If this is your first-time ice skating in NYC, here are a few things to know:

• First, make sure to dress appropriately in warm layers. Layers are KEY! As well as gloves and earmuffs to keep your hands/ears warm.
• If you don’t have strong ankles, or it’s your first time and you’re over 25, go during a time when there aren’t a lot of people. This will make it easier for you to try it out while holding on to the rail.
• You may want to consider wearing a helmet, to protect your head from falls. 
• Additionally, stretching before hitting the ice can help prevent injury and improve your performance. 
• It can be dangerous when it’s crowded because you can crash into people (or they into you). So again, make sure to go during a time that isn’t too crowded. 
• Lastly, if you’re super nervous, consider investing in classes/instructors, who can provide guidance and support as you learn to skate. We list a few below!

The Best Places to Go Ice skating in NYC 

Ice skating in NYC is one of the best winter activities to get some exercise while socializing and enjoying the beauty of the NYC winter skyline around you. You can also do this as soon as fall in New York City arrives. Ice skating in NYC in November is a great idea, too, especially if you don’t like to join large holiday crowd in December. Here is our list of the top places to go skating in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island!

1. LeFrak Center at Prospect Park’s Lakeside

LeFrak Center is one of the most popular ice skating rinks in Brooklyn, offering both an outdoor and indoor rink. In the outdoor ice rink, you can skate while surrounded by the frozen lakeside views of Prospect Park. Their indoor rink is open year-round and has a capacity of up to 330 skaters.

The amenities at this rink include the Bluestone Cafe and Bar which offers meals, snacks, and beverages including hot cocoa. They also have tables and chairs by the rink for family and friends. 

• Location: Prospect Park, 171 East Dr, Brooklyn, NY
• Cost: Starts at $8.7 (Weekdays)/ $13 (Weekends). *NOTE: WEEKEND PRICES BEGIN FRIDAY AT 4:00 PM
• Ratings: 4.3 (Google Reviews)

2. Industry City Ice Rink

Industry City is an NYC hidden gem! The complex offers an ice skating rink, art spaces, live music, and restaurants such as the Raggae Town Cafe (Jamaican restaurant), Tadaima (Japanese bakery and dessert shop), and Avocaderia (and avocado-centric cafe), and so much more.

Industry City’s Ice Rink is on the smaller side but still a super cute spot for a quick slide on the ice. It is 60’ x 32’ and offers 2-hour ice skating sessions. 

The Industry City Complex is also a charming NYC Christmas destination for holiday cheer.

NOTE: For a less crowded experience, visit on weekdays as the Industry City Ice Rink tends to get crowded on the weekends. 

• Location: Industry City, 35th Street (between 2nd and 3rd Ave)
• Borough: Brooklyn
• Cost: Starts at $14 per person; $10 for skate rentals
• Ratings: 3.7 (Google Reviews)

3. The Rink at Rockefeller Center

Located under the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, ice skating at The Rink at Rockefeller is not just the most popular ice skating rink in New York City, it’s one of our most classic Christmas activities. The Rink is just a few steps away from Times Square and the Broadway/Theatre District making it convenient for you to stop by after a show.

For families, this spot allows skating for children under age 6 with adult supervision!

TIP: When going during the holidays, book your tickets online in advance and arrive at least 30 minutes before the intended time to avoid long lines and delay in your skating time. 

• Location: Rockefeller Plaza between 50th and 49th
• Borough: Manhattan
• Cost: $11-$45 (General Admission), $47-$113 (VIP); $12 for skate rentals
• Ratings: 4.4 (Google Reviews)
• Tickets: Check availability and book tickets here.

4. Central Park’s Wollman Rink

Central Park’s Wollman Rink is an excellent choice for those looking to skate at a more spacious rink and at a more affordable price. The 33-square-foot rink is romantically surrounded by the Manhattan skyline contrasting with Central Park’s natural beauty. It is also pretty well-maintained ice since the staff clears the rink every couple of hours for maintenance.

To avoid delays at the entrance, purchase your tickets online, bring the waiver form, and drop your belongings at the lockers in the clubhouse. 

Note: Outside food and beverage are not allowed at Wollman Rink. But the Wollman Cafe is onsite and offers a variety of food and drink including vegan options.

• Location: 830 5th Ave
• Borough: Manhattan
• Cost: Starts at $15 for Adults and $10 for kids; $10 for skate rental. See the complete price list here.
• Ratings: 4.3 (Google Reviews)

5. Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers (Lessons!)

Want to go ice skating in New York City during the summer? Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers offers a year-round ice skating rink for skaters of all ages and abilities! This indoor skating rink has full-sized twin rinks, well-maintained ice, and an expansive view of the Hudson River.

They also have a snack bar that offers muffins, chips, bagels, and, their best seller – pizza!

What I love the most about Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers, is that they offer private lessons for newbies interested in ice skating, hockey, and even figure skating.  

• Location: 61 Chelsea Piers
• Borough: Manhattan
• Cost: $20; $10 for skate rentals; $5 for helmet
• Ratings: 4.1 (Google Reviews)

6. Aviator Sports

Among the well-known year-round ice skating rinks in NYC is Aviator Sports’ Skating Rink, rated as the top skating rink in Brooklyn 2019-2020. This is also one of the best places to learn figure skating or youth hockey as it is home to several world-class coaches who are guaranteed to guide you along the way. So whether you’re a newbie or a pro, you can benefit from taking a lesson here.

The Aviator Sports Skating Rink offers two NHL-sized rinks and a plethora of facilities including Aviator Eats where they serve lunch and dinner options and drinks at the Aces Sports Lounge. 

Please note that public ice skating at Aviator Sports Skating Rink has been indefinitely closed due to COVID. Hopefully, they will reopen soon.

• Location: 3159 Flatbush Ave
• Borough: Brooklyn
• Cost: Non-Members – $12 (adults)/ $10(children 11 years and under); Members – $10.80 (adults)/ $9(children 11 years and under); $6 for skate rentals
• Ratings: 4.3 (Google Reviews)

7. AKA Haarlem Meer Center (AKA Lasker Rink)

The Lasker Rink is one of the more affordable options for ice skating in NYC. They have a spacious rink with decent ice – so you can skate with your family and friends. The facilities include a big locker room where you can leave your belongings while you have fun.  

NOTE: Lasker Rink and Pool, now Harlem Meer Center, is currently temporarily closed for renovation. Expect better facilities and a better landscape when they open in 2024!

• Location: 110 Lenox Ave (Harlem)
• Borough: Manhattan
• Cost: $9; $8 for Skate Rentals
• Ratings: 4.1 (Google Reviews)

8. The Rink at Brookfield Place

The Rink at Brookfield Place is the place to be for those looking for an upscale ice skating session. Along the waterfront, The Rink is strategically situated to give you a view of the picturesque landscape of the Hudson River.  After a fun ice skating session, you can quickly grab meals, snacks, and drinks at the Hudson Eats.

The Rink at Brookfield Place also highlights quality skating programs with Olympians, Melissa Gregory, and Denis Petukhov. 

TIP: Always book a ticket online and arrive early to fully enjoy your outdoor ice skating experience!

• Location: Three World Financial Center, 230 Vesey St.
• Borough: Manhattan
• Cost: $15; $5 for skate rentals
• Ratings: 4.4 (Google Reviews)

9. Ice Rink at The Seaport

Winterland has transferred this year to be the Ice Rink at The Seaport. They offer a 40 x 92-foot rink where you can skate for at least 75 minutes per session. Winterland’s view of the Brooklyn Bridge was replaced by an overhead installation giving the effect of the Aurora Northern Lights. 

Admission to the skating rink is free with a neighborhood discount for locals for the rental fee. Be sure to watch out for the festive events they feature to get complete your holiday experience!

• Location: Seaport between Piers 16 & 17, 89 South Street, New York, NY
• Cost: FREE Admission; Rental Fee starts at $17. They also offer neighborhood discounts. 
• Ratings: 3.6 (Google Reviews)

10. Riverbank State Park Ice Skating Rink

Located 69 feet above the Hudson River, the Riverbank State Park is a 28-acre public park that offers skating sessions, skating, figure skating, and hockey lessons for the duration of the winter season. Get to skate at the Riverbank State Park Ice Rink at a very affordable price in a wide non-crowded rink with upbeat music!

Riverbank State Park’s Skating Rink is a covered area where you get to enjoy skating regardless of the weather and enjoy the view of the Little Red Lighthouse. It is very friendly for beginners who are trying ice skating for the first time. They also hold evening skating events for adults where you get to join in their fun activities – but be sure to arrive an hour ahead of opening time to avoid long lines. 

• Location: 679 Riverside Dr., Manhattan, NY
• Cost: $5 (adults)/ $3 (children); $6 for skate rentals
• Ratings: 4.3 (Google Reviews)

11. Abe Stark Rink

Abe Stark Rink features a spacious rink that is not crowded on most days- making it a famous ice skating place for beginners and pros alike. They also have seating overlooking the ice where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while observing others playing on the ice. 

Abe Stark Rink offers hockey and skating classes at affordable prices. They have safe and clean facilities making it a top choice for kids and youths alike. 

TIP: Bring your food and beverage since there is none available nearby and bring cash to pay for the amenities. 

• Location: 1902 W 19th St, Brooklyn, NY
• Cost: $10; $5 for skate rentals
• Ratings: 4.4 (Google Reviews)

12. City Ice Pavilion

For those who want to challenge themselves to a hockey game, the City Ice Pavilion is your place to go. The City Ice Pavilion is also well-liked by beginners – especially kids, as they have expert trainers who are very good at teaching and guiding children. 

They have a variety of snacks and cold beverages from the vending machines nearby but remember to bring your meals and hot coffee or chocolate. 

NOTE: The City Ice Pavilion accepts cash only so always remember to stop by the ATM before your skating session! Also, remember to register online before heading to the rink. 

• Location: 47-32 32nd PI, Long Island City, NY
• Cost: $7-$10; $8 for skate rental
• Ratings: 4.3 (Google Reviews)

13. Byrant Park’s Winter Village Skating Pavilion

Surrounded by several Christmas market offering snacks, beverages, charms, souvenirs, arts, artifacts, and more, a night at Bryant Park’s Winter Village is a popular New York City winter activity for families and friends alike. 

You can take a quick stop at Bryant Park’s Winter Village Skating Pavilion where you can skate amidst the New York city backdrop. They offer free admission to the Skating Pavilion which is open rain or shine. All family members will have a comfortable and secure experience thanks to their excellent personnel and trainers.

After basking in the cold, Bryant Park’s Winter Village offers a heated observation deck right above the Skating Pavilion where you can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and some snacks.  

• Location: 41st Street, 6th Ave., New York, NY
• Cost: FREE ADMISSION; $15-$50 for skate rentals
• Ratings: 4.6 (Google Reviews)

14. The Standard Ice Rink

While only having a 3000-square-foot ice skating rink, a skate at The Standard Ice Rink at The Standard Hotel High Line will have you experience a skating rink all by yourself. Because the area is small, it is not preferred by skaters making it almost empty even during the holiday season!

It is also a popular place to take your children to experience skating since they have cute penguin skate guides to guide the kids while you monitor them at the table and chairs by the rink. You can also drop by their indoor snack bar to satisfy your sweet tooth with their popular Nutella Crepes, hot chocolate, Belgian waffles, and Arctic Beverages!

The fun at The Standard Ice Rink doesn’t end with the holidays as the rink is open all year round!

• Location: Meatpacking District
• Borough: Manhattan
• Cost: $12 (adults)/ $6  (kids); $3 for rental skates
• Ratings: 4.3 (Google Reviews)

15. World Ice Arena

If you are looking for a skating rink where you can spend hours and master your skating skills, the World Ice Arena is a popular skating go-to! For an affordable price of $7, you get to skate for an unlimited number of hours. 

It is a great place for beginners and kids since its management prioritizes providing a safe environment for all. The ice is nice to skate in and they have lots of seats for you to rest and grab a snack or two. 

They also have a skating school available for adults and children at least age 2 and a youth hockey program for kids at least age 4.  

• Location: 131 Meridian Rd
• Borough: Queens
• Cost: $8 (weekdays)/$11 (weekends); $6 for skate rentals
• Ratings: 4.3 (Google Reviews)

16. WWII Veterans Memorial Ice Skating Rink, Staten Island

For a cheap skating experience, WWII Veterans Memorial Ice Skating Rink is an outdoor skating rink where you can spend a skating session with family and friends.  They offer a big skating rink, guaranteeing plenty of space for their visitors. 

Conveniently located at Clove Lakes Park, you can enjoy other activities and explore the scenic lakes, ponds, and environment nearby after your skating session!

NOTE: The WWII Veterans Memorial Ice Skating Rink only accepts cash. It is also best to bring your skates to ensure your comfort while you have some fun.

• Location: 1305 Victory Blvd
• Borough: Staten Island
• Cost: $12; $7 for Skate Rentals
• Ratings: 4.1 (Google Reviews) 

17. Winter Village Rink on Governor’s Island

For an away-from-the-city getaway, Governor’s Island now has a 7,500-square-foot Winter Village Rink where families, friends, and pets can enjoy the cold winter. It is a place to go skating, engage in various winter activities, and feel the festivities with its festive decorations and games. 

After skating, you can avail of their sled and bike rentals or choose to enjoy the heat at their various warming fire pits! There are also lots of savory goodness at the carts just next to the rink. 

Note: Winter Village Rink is open only Thursday through Sunday, with FREE Admission on Thursdays!

• Location: 41st Street, 6th Ave., New York, NY
• Cost: $12 (weekdays)/ $13 (weekends); $9 for skate rentals
• Ratings: 3.0 (Google Reviews)

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