Must-Visit Winter Spots in New York | Ice Skating with Local Friends, Free Rinks Available!
| Ice Skating with Local Friends, Free Rinks Available!
⛲️In November, New York is gradually enveloped in a strong festive atmosphere. A local friend recommended the Bryant Park Winter Village ice rink and holiday market, which is a unique experience in New York during fall and winter. This small winter paradise in Midtown Manhattan not only has the only free ice rink in Manhattan, but also warm market stalls and romantic transparent ice houses.
⛸️The Bryant Park ice rink is the only free ice rink in New York. If you find the Rockefeller or Central Park ice rinks a bit expensive, you can come here. But remember to book a time slot in advance. You can bring your own skates and go directly on the ice, or rent skates.
💰Skate rental prices: $20–$58, slightly higher during peak season and holidays.
📅Opening hours: Open from October 25 to March of the following year.
🕙Open daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, with extended hours until midnight during winter holidays and weekends.
⛸️In fact, this ice rink is larger than the Rockefeller Center rink, and the skating experience is comparable to any famous ice rink. While skating, you can see the towering skyscrapers around Bryant Park, especially in the evening when the lights of the skyscrapers and the holiday decorations of the ice rink intertwine, creating a movie-like scene. For skating enthusiasts and beginners, it's a cost-effective place with a great experience.
🚇Transportation: Bryant Park is located between Fifth Avenue and Sixth Avenue on 42nd Street in Manhattan, with convenient transportation. Take the B/D/F/M subway to 42nd Street-Bryant Park Station, or take the 7 subway line to Fifth Avenue Station, and you're there.
🎫Tickets and fees: The ice rink is free, but it's recommended to bring your own skates. Skate rental fees vary by date, so it's recommended to check the official website in advance.
🙅Try to avoid peak times: The Bryant Park ice rink and holiday market are very popular during holidays. Weekdays are the best time to visit, as you can avoid the crowds and better enjoy skating and the market.
🧤Bring enough warm clothing: It's cold outdoors in New York during winter, so it's recommended to bring gloves, scarves, and other warm clothing when skating and playing. Especially for those renting skates, wearing thicker socks will make the experience more comfortable.
🍱Enjoy street food: If you're hungry, you can go to the nearby market to refuel. A hot American hot dog and hot chocolate is a must-have winter combo.
📅Also, here's the market schedule: October 25 to January 5 of the following year, with stalls open daily until 8:00 pm. Each stall is filled with warm orange lights, selling a dazzling array of handicrafts, jewelry, souvenirs, and various holiday items.
✈️The greatest joy of travel is experiencing the local way of life, saving money while having fun. Ice skating is a great experience in New York during winter!