Wollman Rink is returning this weekend to help get an early start to the winter season.
On Oct. 28, Wollman Rink will be opening in Central Park for its third season. The grand opening day is free to the public, and tickets are now available for the rest of the season.
“Central Park has historically been a space where visitors to New York and locals alike are welcomed and encouraged to enjoy the hundreds of recreational offerings,” said Bret Pidgeon, General Manager of Wollman Rink. “With tourism in NYC reaching pre-pandemic levels this year, we are looking forward to greeting visitors with another exciting ice season at Wollman Rink and furthering Wollman Park Partners’ mission of creating an accessible and inclusive venue through our expanding WRAP Program and relationship with our community partners.”
For more than 70 years, Wollman Rink served as an iconic skating destination in the city for locals and tourists alike. Operated by Wollman Park Partners (WPP) – a joint venture between HBSE, Related Companies and Equinox — Wollman Rink holds true to its mission and offers opening skating throughout the winter season while continuing to create a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive space for all New Yorkers.
In addition to complimentary open skating on opening day, guests can enjoy a full day of free activities, including free skate rentals, free lessons and clinics by Kearn to Skate USA, live performances, and the Frozen 5K race on skates with all proceeds going to the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation.
When you need a break from the ice, there are two dining options available: The Café and Melba’s in the Park. The Café features grab-and-go items from Great Performances, and new this season is the Build Your Own Chili Bar, which has vegan options available, and a Pasta Station with bolognese, alfredo, and a rotating chef’s special. Guests can also take advantage of the Sundae Station and Hot Chocolate Bar. At Melba’s in the Park, you can enjoy a variety of dishes inspired by the famous Harlem eatery, Melba’s Restaurant, and joining the lineup this year is Melba’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich and Melba’s Corn Dog. The rink will also feature a carving station, fondue, and artisanal cheese boards.
“The leaves are changing and the days are getting shorter – but the clearest sign that winter is coming might just be the reopening of the iconic Wollman Rink,” said Sue Donoghue, NYC Parks Commissioner. “Every year, Wollman Rink offers New Yorkers and visitors from around the world the unforgettable experience of skating in the world’s most famous urban park. And thanks to their partnership with Culture Pass, Wollman Rink is helping to make this great experience more accessible and affordable for communities across our city. I’m so grateful to the team at Wollman Park Partners for their great work activating this iconic space. I’ll see you on the ice!”
Admission for the rink ranges from $15 to $37 for adults, depending on date of entry, and will be $10 for children and seniors. Skate rentals are $11 and access for a non-skating adult chaperone is free with the purchase of a child ticket. For avid skaters, season passes can be purchased at the box office on opening day and cost $275 for adults and $100 for seniors and children with no blackout dates. Wollman Rink will also be continuing its partnership with Culture Pass and its Access Program (WRAP), allowing low-income visitors an opportunity to visit.
Wollman Rink is located at 830 5th Ave. For more information, visit wollmanrinknyc.com.