NYC in Winter: Explore Ice Skating Rinks and Holiday Lights
/As the temperature drops and snow starts to fall, New York City transforms into a winter wonderland. One of the most popular activities during the winter months is ice skating. Luckily, there are many ice skating rinks throughout the city where visitors and locals alike can lace up their skates and glide across the ice.
Perhaps the most iconic ice skating rink in NYC is the one located in Central Park. With the stunning backdrop of the city skyline and the park's natural beauty, it's no wonder why this rink is a must-visit during the winter season. Other popular rinks include The Rink at Rockefeller Center, Wollman Rink in Central Park, and Bryant Park's Winter Village skating rink. Each rink has its own unique charm and atmosphere, making it worth a visit.
In addition to ice skating, NYC is also known for its spectacular holiday lights. From the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the festive displays at department stores like Macy's and Saks Fifth Avenue, the city is aglow with holiday cheer. Visitors can take a stroll down Fifth Avenue to see the extravagant window displays or take a tour of the Dyker Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn to see the elaborately decorated homes. With so much to see and do, NYC in winter is truly a magical experience.
Iconic Ice Skating Rinks
New York City is known for its iconic ice skating rinks that come to life during the winter season. Here are some of the most popular rinks that offer a unique and memorable ice skating experience.
Rockefeller Center
The Rockefeller Center ice rink is one of the most famous rinks in the world. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this rink is surrounded by the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and stunning holiday decorations. It is open from October to April and offers a range of skating sessions throughout the day.
Bryant Park Winter Village
The Bryant Park Winter Village is another popular ice skating destination in New York City. Located in the heart of Manhattan, this rink is surrounded by a winter village that offers a range of holiday shops and food vendors. The rink is open from late October to early March and offers free admission for those who bring their own skates.
Wollman Rink in Central Park
The Wollman Rink in Central Park is a popular destination for ice skaters of all ages. This rink offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and is surrounded by the beautiful Central Park. It is open from late October to early April and offers a range of skating sessions throughout the day.
The Rink at Brookfield Place
The Rink at Brookfield Place is a picturesque ice rink that offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty. Located in the heart of Lower Manhattan, this rink is surrounded by a range of shops and restaurants. It is open from late October to early April and offers a range of skating sessions throughout the day.
Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers
The Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers is a popular ice skating destination for both locals and tourists. This rink offers a range of skating sessions throughout the day and is open year-round. It is located in Chelsea Piers, which is a popular sports and entertainment complex in Manhattan.
Overall, New York City offers a range of iconic ice skating rinks that provide a unique and memorable experience during the winter season.
Lesser Known Rinks
New York City is known for its iconic ice skating rinks, such as Rockefeller Center and Central Park. However, there are also several lesser-known rinks that are worth checking out during the winter season. Here are some of the top picks:
The Rink at Manhattan West
Located in the heart of Manhattan's Hudson Yards neighborhood, The Rink at Manhattan West is a relatively new addition to the city's ice skating scene. This 8,000 square foot rink is open from November through January and offers stunning views of the surrounding skyscrapers. Skating lessons and private events are also available.
Abe Stark Rink
The Abe Stark Rink, located in Coney Island, Brooklyn, is a hidden gem for ice skating enthusiasts. This outdoor rink is open from November through March and offers affordable admission prices. It's also conveniently located near the Coney Island boardwalk, making it the perfect spot for a winter day trip.
City Ice Pavilion
City Ice Pavilion, located in Long Island City, Queens, is a popular spot for both recreational and competitive ice skaters. This indoor rink offers public skating sessions, as well as figure skating and hockey programs. It's also a great option for those looking to escape the cold winter weather.
Vale Rink
Vale Rink, located in the Vale Park section of Brooklyn's Navy Yard, is a unique outdoor rink that offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. This rink is open from November through February and offers free admission to the public. It's also a great spot for families, with plenty of space for kids to play and enjoy the winter weather.
Riverbank State Park Ice Skating Rink
Located in Harlem's Riverbank State Park, this outdoor rink is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The rink is open from November through March and offers affordable admission prices. It's also conveniently located near several subway stations, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city.
Overall, these lesser-known rinks offer a unique and affordable way to enjoy ice skating in New York City during the winter season. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a beginner, these rinks are sure to impress with their stunning views and family-friendly atmosphere.
Skating with a View
New York City is a winter wonderland, with plenty of ice skating rinks and holiday lights to enjoy. But for those looking for a truly unique experience, skating with a view is a must-do. Here are three ice skating rinks that offer stunning views of the cityscape.
Sky Skate
Located on the rooftop of Pier 17 in the Seaport District, Sky Skate offers panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the East River, and the city skyline. Skaters can glide around the rooftop rink while taking in the breathtaking views. The rink is open from November through March, and visitors can rent skates on site.
Ice Rink at the Seaport
The Seaport District is home to another ice skating rink with a view. The Ice Rink at the Seaport is situated right on the waterfront, offering stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River. Skaters can enjoy the view while skating on the ice, surrounded by holiday lights and festive decorations. The rink is open from November through March, and visitors can rent skates on site.
Glide at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and in the winter, it's home to an ice skating rink with a view. Glide at Brooklyn Bridge Park offers skaters stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. The rink is open from November through March, and visitors can rent skates on site.
Whether you're a seasoned skater or a beginner, skating with a view is an unforgettable experience. So bundle up, lace up your skates, and hit the ice at one of these three rinks for a winter adventure you won't forget.
Winter Holiday Lights
New York City is known for its spectacular holiday lights that brighten up the city during the winter season. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the dazzling displays at Saks Fifth Avenue, there is no shortage of holiday cheer in the Big Apple.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most famous holiday sights in New York City. Every year, a towering Norway spruce is selected to be the centerpiece of the holiday season. The tree is adorned with over 50,000 LED lights and topped with a Swarovski crystal star. Visitors can admire the tree from the surrounding plaza, which is also home to the famous ice skating rink.
Saks Fifth Avenue
Saks Fifth Avenue is another must-see destination for holiday lights. The department store's holiday window displays are a beloved tradition in New York City. Each year, the windows are decorated with elaborate scenes that tell a story. The store's facade is also lit up with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere for shoppers and spectators alike.
Holiday Markets
New York City is home to several holiday markets that offer unique shopping experiences and festive displays. The Union Square Holiday Market, for example, features over 150 vendors selling handmade gifts, jewelry, and food. The market is also decorated with holiday lights and a giant Christmas tree. Other popular holiday markets include the Bryant Park Winter Village and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market.
Overall, New York City's winter holiday lights are a sight to behold. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the charming holiday markets, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season.
Food and Drink
When it comes to food and drink, NYC has something for everyone during the winter season. From cozy igloos to bars and restaurants, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Cozy Igloos
For a unique winter dining experience, visitors can head to the cozy igloos at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar. These heated igloos offer stunning views of the city skyline while diners enjoy a warm meal and drinks. Reservations are recommended, as these igloos are a popular winter attraction.
Bluestone Cafe
Located in the heart of Central Park, Bluestone Cafe is the perfect spot to warm up after a day of ice skating. This cafe offers a variety of hot drinks, including hot chocolate and coffee, along with sandwiches and baked goods. Visitors can enjoy their food and drink while taking in the beautiful winter scenery of Central Park.
Bars and Restaurants
For those looking for a more traditional dining experience, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. One popular spot is Rolf's German Restaurant, which is known for its over-the-top holiday decorations and festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy traditional German food and drinks while surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday cheer.
Another popular spot is The Standard Grill, which offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere during the winter months. This restaurant serves up classic American fare and a variety of cocktails, making it the perfect spot for a warm and hearty meal.
Overall, NYC has plenty of options for food and drink during the winter season. Whether visitors are looking for a unique dining experience or a cozy spot to warm up, there is something for everyone.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Dates
New York City is a popular destination during the winter season, and many of the ice skating rinks and holiday lights displays open up in early November and run until the end of December. However, it's important to check the specific opening dates of the attractions you plan to visit, as some may have different schedules or hours during the holiday season.
Places to Stay
There are many places to stay in New York City, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Visitors can choose to stay in the heart of Manhattan, near popular attractions like Central Park and Times Square, or in other boroughs like Brooklyn or Queens. It's recommended to book accommodations in advance, as hotels can fill up quickly during the holiday season.
Getting There
New York City is easily accessible by public transportation, with the subway being the most popular and affordable option. Visitors can purchase MetroCards at subway stations or online, which provide unlimited rides on the subway and buses. It's also possible to take a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, but these options can be more expensive during peak travel times.
Overall, planning ahead is key to a successful trip to New York City during the winter season. Checking opening dates, booking accommodations in advance, and familiarizing oneself with the public transportation system can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Tips and Tricks
When visiting NYC during winter, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to make the most out of your experience. Here are some things to consider:
Dress Warmly
It's no secret that New York City can get quite cold during the winter months. Therefore, it is essential to dress appropriately. Make sure to wear a hat, gloves, a scarf, and a warm sweater or coat. Layers are key, as you can always remove them if you get too warm.
Bring Your Own Skates
If you plan on ice skating at one of the many rinks in the city, consider bringing your own skates. Not only will this save you money, but it will also save you time waiting in line to rent skates. Plus, you'll have the added benefit of having skates that fit you well and are broken in.
Check the Music Schedule
Many of the ice skating rinks in NYC have live music events scheduled throughout the winter season. Check the schedule ahead of time so you can plan your visit accordingly and enjoy some festive tunes while you skate.
Go Early or Late
If you want to avoid the crowds at the ice skating rinks or holiday light displays, consider going early in the morning or late at night. This is also a great way to get some beautiful photos without people in the background.
Overall, with these tips and tricks in mind, you can have a wonderful winter experience in NYC.
