Wollman Rink
Iconic Central Park ice rink offering stunning city skyline views and a magical winter experience for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical city lights
Wollman Rink
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical city lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Central Park ice rink offering stunning city skyline views and a magical winter experience for all ages.
"Skating with a breathtaking backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and Central Park's beauty. Pure magic!"
⛸️ Library Card Perks
Use your physical NYC Public Library card for potential free admission via Culture Pass!
🧥 Layer Up for Warmth
Dress warmly! Gloves, hats, and layers are essential for a comfortable skate.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Central Park Views
Southern end of Central Park
Skate with a breathtaking backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and Central Park's beauty. Pure magic!
Golden Hour Skating
The Rink
Experience the rink bathed in the warm glow of sunset – a truly unforgettable NYC moment.
Cozy Igloo Rentals
On the ice
Rent a private, heated igloo for a unique gathering with friends or family.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Dress for the Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛸️ Library Card Perks
Use your physical NYC Public Library card for potential free admission via Culture Pass! +1
🧥 Layer Up for Warmth
Dress warmly! Gloves, hats, and layers are essential for a comfortable skate.
📸 Capture the Views
The skyline backdrop is stunning, especially during golden hour or at night.
⏰ Beat the Ticket Line
Buy your Wollman Rink tickets online to avoid long queues.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛸️ Library Card Perks
Use your physical NYC Public Library card for potential free admission via Culture Pass! +1
🧥 Layer Up for Warmth
Dress warmly! Gloves, hats, and layers are essential for a comfortable skate.
📸 Capture the Views
The skyline backdrop is stunning, especially during golden hour or at night.
⏰ Beat the Ticket Line
Buy your Wollman Rink tickets online to avoid long queues.
👟 Bring Your Own Skates
If you have your own skates, you can save on rental fees and ensure a good fit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wollman Rink is celebrated for its iconic Central Park location and stunning city skyline views, offering a magical ice skating experience. Visitors appreciate the festive atmosphere and the option for private igloos, though long queues for tickets and variable ice/skate quality are noted drawbacks.
"Biggest ice skating rink in NYC with iconic central park and skyscraper backdrop. Beautiful little igloo for private gatherings and great selection of light bites that can be upgraded to a more sophisticated menu."
Walt
"I highly recommend to come earlier than 2pm. Also make sure to buy tickets online because the line for tickets is huge!! Other than that, I definitely had a great time skating at this park with my kids. The views are stunning! The food inside is delicious, but they ask for the vaccine and PCR test so make sure to bring that with you :)🌇💫"
Anastasia Borisevich
"We had a great time ice skating in the Wollman Rink! Very beautiful scenery and the staff was very friendly. I like that you can spend as long as you would like there and are not restricted to only an hour like at Bryant Park rink. We were able to get free tickets through the public library and we had our own skates so the only thing we paid for was the locker for our shoes and bags."
Luke Carlson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wollman Rink is located in the southern part of Central Park. You can access it via public transportation, with subway lines like the N, Q, R, W to 57th St-7th Ave or the F to 57th St. Walking from 5th Avenue takes about 5 minutes.
While there isn't direct parking at the rink, several parking garages are available on 58th and 59th Streets between 5th and 6th Avenues. Public transport is generally recommended to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, taxis and rideshares can drop you off near the park entrances closest to the rink. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak hours.
The closest subway stations are 57th St-7th Ave (N, Q, R, W) and 59th St-Columbus Circle (A, B, C, D, 1). From there, it's a short walk into Central Park.
Yes, you can find directions on the official Wollman Rink website or use navigation apps. Many visitors find it helpful to head towards the southern end of Central Park near 59th Street.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Wollman Rink typically start around $16 USD for admission, with skate rentals costing extra. Prices can vary by season and day. Booking online in advance is highly recommended.
Yes, if you have a physical New York Public Library card, you might be eligible for free admission through the Culture Pass NYC program. +1
Wollman Rink hours vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule, as they are typically open from late October through March.
It is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially during peak times like weekends and holidays, to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
Admission is required for all skaters. While some promotions like the Culture Pass exist, general admission tickets are necessary for entry.
🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience
Yes, skate rentals are available at Wollman Rink. However, if you have your own skates, you can bring them to save on rental fees.
Wollman Rink is generally welcoming to skaters of all skill levels. While it can get busy, beginners can still enjoy the experience, especially during less crowded times.
Lockers are available for rent to store your shoes and bags. Some users have noted that figuring out the locker system can be a bit slow if not connected to their free Wi-Fi.
While freestyle skating is common, Wollman Rink is primarily a public skating rink. Advanced tricks might be better suited for dedicated practice sessions or rinks with specific freestyle hours.
Reviews suggest the ice quality can vary, and it may not always be perfect, especially during busy periods. However, the overall experience is still considered enjoyable by many.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. Nighttime also provides a magical ambiance with city lights. +1
Absolutely! The rink offers stunning views of the Central Park landscape and the iconic New York City skyline, making it a photographer's dream.
For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to check Wollman Rink's policy regarding permits or fees, especially if you plan to use specialized equipment.
You can capture dynamic action shots of skaters, serene moments with the park scenery, and iconic cityscapes as a backdrop. +1
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Dress everyone in warm layers, bring snacks (though food is available), and consider bringing your own skates if your children are comfortable in them. The magic of skating in Central Park is an experience kids will talk about for years.
💰 Budget Travelers
While on-site food and drinks can add up, consider having a picnic in Central Park before or after your skate, or grabbing a more affordable meal outside the park. Visiting on a weekday evening can also mean fewer crowds and potentially a more relaxed experience without the premium weekend pricing.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Consider booking a private igloo for a more intimate and cozy experience, complete with drinks and snacks. Evening skates offer a particularly magical ambiance with the rink lights and city glow. It's a perfect activity for a festive holiday date or a charming winter evening out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wollman Rink Experience
+1Beyond the ice, Wollman Rink offers amenities like private igloo rentals for a more intimate gathering and a selection of food and drinks. The rink is a popular spot for dates, family outings, and even solo adventures, embodying the festive spirit of the city.
It's important to note that Wollman Rink is a seasonal attraction, typically operating from late October through March. Planning your visit and booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to make the most of your experience, especially during peak holiday seasons.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Tips from Locals and Visitors
Dress in layers! The winter weather in New York can be unpredictable, and staying warm is key to enjoying your time on the ice. Bringing your own skates can also enhance comfort and save on rental costs.
While the rink offers a wonderful experience, some reviews mention that the ice quality and skate condition can vary. However, the efficient management and the overall magical atmosphere often outweigh these minor concerns for most visitors.
Beyond Ice Skating: Summer Activities at Wollman Rink
+1Additionally, Wollman Rink has been known to host roller skating events, like the 'Disco Oasis' which brings a fun, retro vibe to the park. These summer events provide a different, yet equally engaging, way to experience this iconic location.
These seasonal shifts mean Wollman Rink offers year-round entertainment, adapting its offerings to suit the weather and provide diverse recreational opportunities for New Yorkers and visitors alike.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit