Skating at Bryant Park

This past weekend, we found ourselves with zero plans. We originally were scheduled to go up to Pound Ridge for a cozy and relaxed weekend, but after a change of orthodontist appointments on Saturday and Ken needing to go on a business trip on Sunday afternoon, we decided to stay put in the city. This gave us an opportunity to be a tourist in our own city — and I am so glad we explored! We discovered Ice Skating at Bryant Park which was a great family activity. Unlike other rinks in the city, admission is FREE (rentals cost money, but if you have your own skates, then it is FREE!) and it opens up at 8 am! We drove downtown for breakfast and on our way back uptown, parked right in front of the ice skating rink to do some laps!

Bryant Park Winter Wonder Land — lots of shops, food, people watching, ice skating — truly, a winter wonderland.

You wait in line to get a wristband — even if you have skates.

MIDDLE OF THE CITY! On 42nd street — bananas!

I asked what their busy time was and they said ALL DAY EVERYDAY, but especially at night. I can imagine that it is quite beautiful in the evening with the building lights…..

The rink is outside, but there is an indoor space to put on your skates.

Beautiful urban setting.

I waited inside while they skated #PartyPooper

It was cold!

The skaters waiting while the zamboni cleared the ice (only 15 minutes versus other rinks that are 30 minutes).

I highly recommend this (free) activity for a family outing in New York. The rink is open from now until March 1st between the hours of 8 am – 10 pm and you can reserve your time slot online!