Ice skating in Rockefeller Center was an unforgettable bucket list moment and it was long in coming. I had been to New York City so many times, but the season wasn’t right. Once I finally got on the ice it was exactly what I hoped for. Amazing!
Ice skating at Rockefeller Center had been a long-time bucket list item for me. Despite my numerous trips to New York City over the years, I had never visited during the right season to glide across the iconic rink. Finally, the day before the New York Marathon, I got my chance. Nervous about falling and breaking my leg before the big race, I almost hesitated. Ironically, I did end up injuring myself during the marathon, but the experience at Rockefeller Center was absolutely worth it.
Skating with my husband by my side, I felt the magic of the city come to life. The crisp air, twinkling lights, and the iconic Prometheus Statue overlooking the rink made the experience unforgettable. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Rockefeller Center is more than just a skating destination—it’s a historical and cultural landmark. Open from October to April, the rink offers daily skating sessions, and tickets can be booked in advance through rockefellercenter.com.
For me, ice skating at Rockefeller Center wasn’t just about checking off a bucket list item. It was about embracing the spirit of New York and savoring a timeless tradition. Falling on the ice would have been a small price to pay for such an unforgettable memory.
Click here for directions to The Rink at Rockefeller Center.
The tradition of ice skating at Rockefeller Center began in 1936, shortly after the completion of the Rockefeller Plaza complex. John D. Rockefeller Jr., the visionary behind the center, initially wanted to use the sunken plaza space for retail or restaurants, but during the Great Depression, occupancy in the buildings surrounding the plaza was low. In an attempt to draw people to the area, a temporary skating rink was installed in the winter of 1936, and it quickly became a hit with both New Yorkers and tourists. The rink’s popularity was immediate and undeniable, transforming it from a temporary attraction to a permanent fixture at Rockefeller Center.
Over the years, the rink has become a symbol of winter in New York, featured in countless films, television shows, and holiday advertisements. It’s where families gather, couples propose, and visitors find a bit of winter magic in the heart of Manhattan. The rink is particularly famous for its backdrop: the towering Prometheus Statue by Paul Manship, which watches over skaters as they circle the ice.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center is located in Lower Plaza at Rockefeller Center, a sunken space nestled between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue, and 47th Street to 50th Street. It’s easily accessible by subway, bus, or a short walk from many of the city’s major attractions, such as Times Square, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Bryant Park. Visitors are greeted by the stunning Art Deco architecture that defines Rockefeller Center, a complex originally built during the Great Depression and now a hub for commerce, culture, and entertainment.
The centerpiece of the area during the holiday season is, of course, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, which towers over the rink and draws millions of visitors each year. First introduced in 1931 by construction workers at the site, the tree-lighting ceremony has become a major annual event, kicking off the holiday season in New York City. For those visiting during the Christmas season, ice skating under the tree is a magical experience. Skaters can glide across the ice while gazing up at the sparkling lights of the tree and the illuminated skyscrapers that surround them.
Beyond the skating rink, Rockefeller Center is home to some of New York’s most famous attractions, including the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, the NBC Studios, and the famous Radio City Music Hall. After a day on the ice, visitors can take a break from skating to explore the shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions in and around the area.
No mention of the Rockefeller Center rink would be complete without highlighting the Prometheus Statue, which has become synonymous with the skating experience. Designed by Paul Manship in 1934, the gilded bronze statue of Prometheus, the Greek Titan who brought fire to humanity, watches over the ice rink from its position above the fountain in Lower Plaza. The figure is surrounded by an inscription from Aeschylus: “Prometheus, teacher in every art, brought the fire that hath proved to mortals a means to mighty ends.”
Prometheus is one of the most photographed statues in New York City and is particularly striking in the winter months, when its gold sheen contrasts with the surrounding ice and lights. For skaters, the statue serves as a constant reminder of the history, art, and culture that define Rockefeller Center.
While ice skating is the primary use of the Rockefeller Center rink during the winter months, the rink is also used for special events, performances, and private bookings. Throughout the season, professional skaters and performers take to the ice to entertain crowds, often as part of holiday celebrations or public events. These performances are often free to the public and can be enjoyed by visitors standing around the perimeter of the rink.
Additionally, the rink is available for private rentals, making it an ideal location for corporate events, birthday parties, or even wedding proposals—many couples have chosen the iconic rink as the setting for their engagement, skating hand-in-hand before popping the question under the Christmas Tree.
In the warmer months, when the ice is melted, the space transforms into an outdoor café and event space. Known as The Rink at Rockefeller Center Café, this seasonal transformation allows visitors to enjoy alfresco dining in the heart of the city. The rink space has also been used for art installations, pop-up events, fashion shows, and even roller skating!
The Rink at Rockefeller Center typically opens in mid-October and remains open through April, offering skaters several months to enjoy this iconic experience. The rink is open daily, with hours varying slightly depending on the time of year. Generally, the rink opens in the morning around 9:00 AM and closes between 10:00 PM and midnight, making it easy to fit a skate into your day no matter your schedule.
Due to the rink’s popularity, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the busy holiday season. Tickets can be purchased online at rockefellercenter.com, where visitors can choose from general admission tickets, VIP packages, and even skate lessons for beginners. Prices for general admission range depending on the time of day and season, with higher prices during peak holiday periods.
One of the unique aspects of skating at Rockefeller Center is that the rink is relatively small compared to other ice rinks in New York City, like those at Bryant Park and Central Park. This means that only a limited number of skaters are allowed on the ice at any given time, creating a more intimate experience. While the smaller size of the rink might require some patience as you wait for your time slot, it also means that once you’re on the ice, you can enjoy a more personal and memorable skate without the overwhelming crowds.
For those looking for an extra-special experience, Rockefeller Center offers VIP Skating Packages, which include priority ice access, skate rentals, and access to the VIP chalet, where guests can warm up with hot cocoa and cookies between skating sessions. It’s a luxurious way to enjoy this beloved tradition.
Ice skating at Rockefeller Center is a quintessential New York City experience, but there’s plenty more to explore nearby. Just a 10-minute walk (or half a mile) away, Times Square dazzles with its bright lights and energy. Whether you’re catching a Broadway show or simply taking in the electric atmosphere, this iconic destination is a must-see. The 1, 2, or 3 subway lines can get you there quickly if you’d rather skip the walk.
For those seeking a more tranquil escape, Central Park is about a mile north of Rockefeller Center. A 15-minute stroll or a short ride on the B, D, or F subway lines will bring you to this sprawling oasis, where you can wander along scenic pathways or visit famous spots like Bow Bridge and the Bethesda Fountain.
Art lovers will find The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) just 2.5 miles away on the eastern edge of Central Park. Hop in a cab or take the B or D subway lines uptown for a quick 10-minute ride. The Met offers an unparalleled collection of art from across the globe, providing a perfect cultural complement to your outdoor adventures. Whether skating, shopping, or exploring art, Rockefeller Center puts you within easy reach of New York’s best.
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