The Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink, a winter wonderland located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, is a must-visit destination for any traveler to New York City. You may never have visited New York City, but certainly you know Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink since it has appeared again and again in movies and television like Elf and Home Alone 2, making it an iconic symbol of Manhattan.
The rink, which has been a beloved tradition since it first opened in 1936, is situated in the Rockefeller Plaza, a complex of 19 commercial buildings built by the Rockefeller family. The rink is surrounded by some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the NBC Studios, and the Top of the Rock Observation Deck.
The rink, a large and rectangular shape, can accommodate up to 150 skaters at a time. It is open to the public from October to April, offering both recreational skating and figure skating performances. Skating lessons are also available for those who are new to the sport.
One of the best things about the Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink is the atmosphere, a festive and magical place to visit. The rink is surrounded by twinkling lights and decorated with holiday decorations. Skaters can take a break and enjoy hot cocoa or other treats at the rink-side café, while watching the skating action.
Another great feature of the rink is that it is open to the public, so anyone can come and skate. However, it is always crowded, especially during the holiday season. It’s highly recommended to buy the tickets online in advance, to avoid long waiting lines.
Despite the crowds, the rink is well-managed and the staff is friendly and helpful. Skate rental is available on-site, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own skates.
For those who want to take in the sights of the rink without actually skating, the Rockefeller Center offers a number of great viewing spots, including the rink-side café and the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. From the observation deck, visitors can take in panoramic views of the city and the rink below.
The Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. The rink was first opened in December 1936 as part of the Rockefeller Center, a complex of commercial buildings built by the Rockefeller family in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. The rink was designed by architects Raymond Hood and Wallace Harrison as a way to attract visitors and tenants to the newly-built complex.
The rink was an instant success, drawing thousands of visitors each day. The rink was initially open for only four months a year, but due to its popularity, it was soon opened year-round. The rink was also used for figure skating competitions, with some of the most famous skaters of the time, such as Sonja Henie, performing there.
During World War II, the rink was closed to the public and used for training by the United States Coast Guard. After the war, the rink was reopened to the public and continued to be a popular destination for ice skaters.
Over the years, the rink has undergone several renovations and upgrades, including the addition of the rink-side café and the installation of a refrigeration system to keep the ice frozen despite warm spells during the skating season. Despite these changes, the rink has remained true to its original design and continues to be a beloved winter tradition for New Yorkers and visitors alike.
In addition to the ice skating, the Rockefeller Center also offers a number of other winter activities, including the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting, the Saks Fifth Avenue holiday window displays, and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. These events and activities make the Rockefeller Center a popular destination for both holiday shoppers and winter tourists.
The Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink is known for its iconic status and festive atmosphere, but there are a few unexpected facts about the rink that may surprise visitors:
• The rink is not the largest in the city: While the rink is one of the most famous in New York City, it is not actually the largest in terms of size. There are other rinks in the city that are larger, such as the Wollman Rink in Central Park.
• The rink is not only for skating: The rink is also used for other activities, such as yoga and fitness classes, during the summer months. The rink is also used for special events and corporate parties, allowing guests to enjoy the iconic setting and atmosphere of the rink even when there is no ice.
• The rink is not only for the public: The rink is also used for professional figure skaters to practice. The rink is open to the public during the day, and during the evening the rink is used by professional figure skaters, Olympic and World Champions, to train.
• The rink is not the most economical: Skating at the rink is not the cheapest activity, it is a bit more expensive than other ice skating rinks in the city. Skating admission is $33 and skate rental is around $20.
• The rink is not only open in the winter: The rink is open to the public year-round, and not only during the winter months as one might expect. The rink is closed only for maintenance and cleaning, usually in the summer months.
• The rink is not exclusively for skating: In the past, the rink has been used for roller skating and even for a fashion show. The rink has been transformed into a dance floor and a stage for live performances.
Overall, the Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New York City during the winter months. With its festive atmosphere, beautiful setting, and abundance of activities, it is the perfect way to experience the magic of the city during the winter. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a first-timer, the Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink promises to be a highlight of your trip.
For More Information:
• www.rockefellercenter.com
