Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink (Photo: Bruin/Wikimedia Commons)

Want to practice your double axel in the middle of Central Park? You’re in luck!

The five boroughs of New York City are home to a diverse collection of ice skating rinks. As an added bonus, many of the outdoor rinks are open until spring.

To avoid the rush—and potentially save a few dollars—consider going on a weekday.

Don’t forget to bring your ice skates, if you have them. Rental fees are not included in the admission price.

OUTDOOR RINKS:

• The Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center is open through April 2011. This iconic midtown rink is framed by skyscrapers and adjoins the famous “30 Rock” building, home of NBC. Adult admission costs $15.50-$19 (depending on the day of the week) through January 7. Prices traditionally drop in March and April, when crowds thin out and the temperature climbs. Consult the price list for information on skating lessons and ticket discounts.
>> For information: Call (212) 332-7654 or visit the Rockefeller Center website.

Wollman Skating Rink in Central Park (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

• The Wollman Rink in Central Park is open through early April. This popular rink is located in Central Park, so skaters can enjoy fresh air while taking in the Manhattan skyline. The rink can be entered at 59th Street and 6th Avenue and is close to many subways. It is especially popular with New York City children, probably due to the affordable price: $5.50 for kids under 12 and $10.50 for adults on the weekdays. Weekend rates are $5.75 for kids, and jump to $15 for adults. For more information, visit the rink’s website .
>> For information: Call (212) 439-6900 or visit the Wollman Rink website.

• The Lasker Rink in Central Park is also open through late March. This is the less expensive option for ice skating in Central Park. Admission is $6.50 for adults and $3.50 for children– on any day of the week. The rink is situated between 106 and 108 Streets near the center of the park. The Lasker Rink shares the same website as the Wollman rink in Central Park.
>> For information: Call (917) 492-3857 or visit the Lasker Rink website.

• The Pond at Bryant Park is also open through February 27, 2011. This is one of the city’s most famous outdoor rinks and it’s also the cheapest.  Admission is FREE, although you’ll have to pay $12 to rent skates. If you don’t want to wait on line, purchase a VIP ticket for $20 (including skate rental) on The Pond’s website.
>> For information: Visit the Pond at Bryant Park website.

• The Wollman Rink at Prospect Park is located in Brooklyn and is traditionally an inexpensive place to skate. However, the rink is closed for the entire 2010/2011 winter season due to construction. The new Lakeside facility will include an indoor, four season rink.
>> For information: Visit www.prospectpark.org for details on the new facility and re-opening date.

INDOOR RINKS:

The Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers (Photo: www.bizbash.com)

• The Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers in Manhattan is open year round and offers general skating six days a week (not on Wednesdays). Prices are higher here than at the outdoor rinks, but there’s no risk that adverse weather will ruin your session. Admission is $13 for adults and $10.50 for children/seniors. The rink is also available for birthday parties and lessons. Check the Chelsea Piers website for details.

• City Ice Pavilion in Long Island City, Queens, offers general skating every day of the week. Admission is $5 from Monday-Friday and $8 on Saturday and Sunday. The rink is a short subway ride from midtown Manhattan; just take the 7 train to 33rd St.-Rawson St. Station. Visit the City Ice Pavilion website for more information.

• The World Ice Arena in Flushing Meadows Park, Queens, is a modern facility that offers public skating every day. Admission is $5 on weekdays and $8 on weekends. This rink is further from Manhattan than the City Ice Pavilion, but is accessible via the 7 (local) subway. See the World Ice Arena website for driving directions.

The World Ice Arena in Flushing Meadows Park (Photo: www.worldice.com)

ADDITIONAL RINKS

These are the most popular skating rinks for visitors to New York City, but there are other places to skate.

For a full list of ice skating rinks located in public parks, visit the New York City Parks Department website.

YOUR FAVORITES

Do you have a favorite place to skate in New York City? Leave a comment with your top picks.

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