Ice Skating

Ice skating in Central Park is easily one of the most picturesque activities to be enjoyed on a winter’s night.  While skating peacefully under starry skies at either Wollman or Lasker rinks, you are reminded of how beautiful nature can be in the wintertime. Unlike the somewhat overwhelming confines of the Rockefeller Center rink you can actually see stars at the Wollman rink. Feel the cold tingle of New York’s crisp winter air, listen to the music, and take in the incomparable surroundings as you glide (gracefully or not so) around the rink.  So if you’re ready to grab a pair of skates, feel the cold tingle of New York’s crisp winter air and slip, slide and glide through the snowy wonderland that is Central Park, keep reading!

Ice skating in Wollman and Lasker Rinks in Central Park

Wollman Rink was built in 1949 when Kate Wollman donated $600,000 for its construction. In the early 1990’s, it was purchased and is now run by Donald Trump. It has been a success from the day it opened – over 300,000 skaters glided across the ice in its first year of operation. In use the year round the summer months find hundreds of in-line skaters taking lessons or perfecting more advanced skills.

Thirty years ago Wollman rink was also the site of a very popular music series. Beginning in 1967 and through the early 70’s, the F & M Schaefer Brewing Co. sponsored Concerts in Central Park. The concerts offered something for everyone. At $2.00 for first come/first serve orchestra seats, the shows were popular and usually sold out. Hundreds would spend the day on line at the Wollman Rink to socialize and get the best seats. Some of the acts to appear there included Bruce Springsteen, The Allman Brothers, Dave Brubeck, The Byrds and Billy Joel. Sadly, pressure from the neighborhood eventually forced the shows to the west side Piers and much of the appeal was gone.

Wollman Rink was built in 1949 when Kate Wollman donated $600,000 for its construction. In the 1980’s, it was renovated, and is now run, by Donald Trump. It has been a success from the day it opened – over 300,000 skaters glided across the ice in its first year of operation. For more information about Wollman Rink, including rates, hours of operation, and lesson information, either call 212-439-6900.  In the Summer Wollman Rink is the site of Victorian Gardens amusement park

Lasker Skating Rink, at the northern end of the park, offers a full complement of lessons and activities with certified instructors. For more information about Lasker Skating Rink, including rates, hours of operation, and lesson information, either call 917.492.3856 or email them at lasker@wollmanskatingrink.com.

Wollman Rink, east side between 62nd and 63rd Streets. Enter the Park at 59th and 5th Avenue.

Lasker Rink, mid-Park between 106th and 108th Streets. Enter the Park at 110th and Lenox Avenue.

Details:
* Ice Skating November through March
* Skate Rental and Lockers available
* Lessons available

Skaters and spectators can warm up at the snack bar serving assorted food and hot cocoa – however all visitors need tickets to enter..

Wollman Rink Hours

Visit Wollman Rink’s official website or call 1-833-615-3500 for up-to-date details and announcements. Please note that Wollman Rink is cash only.

For information on hours and admission fees for Lasker Rink call 212-534-7639 or 917-492-3856 or email lasker@wollmanskatingrink.com.