It's on 12 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- HoursLate October through early April
- CostAdults $37, children 12 and under $10, skate rental $11
- SubwayN, R, W to 5 Av/59 St, 4 min
- This yearOct 24 to Mar 16 · Wollman Rink Central Park opensannounced
- Checked September 18, 2026.
New York City transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays. Of the dozen ice skating rinks open for the season, there’s one you can’t afford to miss, the Wollman Rink in Central Park.
Found in the southern end of the park, the stunning Manhattan skyline serves as a breathtaking backdrop while classic Christmas tunes serenade chipper ice skaters. The entire experience is enchanting, which is why I consider it one of the best things to do in New York City at Christmas.
My adviceIce skating at Wollman Rink is high on everyone’s New York City Christmas Bucket List. I suggest visiting during a weekday and arriving early to avoid mind-boggling crowds.
DetailsOpen late October through early April, tickets can be bought in advance online or in person (cash only).
2025 Dates. October through mid-March
Found in the southeastern corner of Central Park, the city skyline serves as a magnificent backdrop to one of the most famous ice rinks in New York City. The rink is open from late October through early March so there’s plenty of time to enjoy the experience after the holiday crowds depart.
Better still, I suggest visiting in early November so you can enjoy ice skating in Central Park surrounded by beautiful fall foliage. If your schedule is flexible, visit during a weekday to avoid mind-boggling crowds.
Found in the southern part of Central Park, the city skyline serves as a breathtaking backdrop to one of the most famous ice rinks in the city. The rink is open from late October through early March, so there’s plenty of time to partake in this famous New York City Christmas activity.
My suggestion is to visit in early November so you can enjoy ice skating in Central Park surrounded by beautiful fall foliage. Try to visit during the week and arrive early to avoid mind-boggling crowds!
It’s hard to think of a more picturesque way to kick off a trip to NYC in the fall than gliding around the rink as the breathtaking fall foliage surrounds you.
Ice skating is one of the most popular things to do in New York City in the fall, and few locations are as iconic as the breathtaking Wollman Rink in Central Park.
Wollman Rink in Central Park is open until March 15.
Ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park is a quintessential NYC holiday experience for kids.
One of the most iconic things to do in New York City in December is to go ice skating at Wollman Rink, which is in the iconic Central Park.
The stunning Manhattan skyline serves as a breathtaking backdrop and offers the most picturesque setting for ice skating.
When it comes to quintessential NYC winter activities, ice skating at the iconic Wollman Rink is hard to beat.
Is there anything more enchanting in New York City than Christmas? The holiday season brings out the best in everyone, even the parks. Wollman Rink is without a doubt one of the top photo locations in Central Park, especially around the time they first open for the season (end of October or beginning of November).
With the iconic Plaza Hotel in the background and trees clinging to their remaining autumn hues, it’s truly a dreamy setting. A useful tip: avoid the ice rink on weekends for photos, as the crowds can be overwhelming. Instead, plan your visit early in the week to capture iconic shots in Central Park.
Skip the tourist version and do it like a local. here’s how.