At Rockefeller Center, you can skate on the most famous ice rink in New York. It feels especially like stepping into a movie during the Christmas season, when the huge tree lights up above the ice.
What to expect
People have been skating here in front of 30 Rockefeller Plaza since 1936. The rink is part of New York’s colder months, but the season starts in the fall.
There are two ticket options: General Skate and VIP Skate. Both include a 60-minute session. VIP adds priority entry, a heated lounge with warm drinks, skate rental, and 20% off at The Rink Shop.
Prices depend on your session. Around Christmas, on weekends, and in the evening, skating can cost considerably more. If you’re flexible, compare weekday daytime slots in October or January, too.
Adult tickets start at $22. Your exact price appears once you select a date and time. Children’s ticket categories cover ages 6–12 and 2–5.
You can rent skates on-site or bring your own. Rentals cost extra with General Skate and are included with VIP Skate. Rental sizes use US sizing rather than EU sizing.
Your 60 minutes run from your booked start time. Arriving late doesn’t extend your session.
Good to know
- Complimentary lockers are available for small items. Large bags, luggage, and strollers aren’t allowed inside.
- Phones and cameras aren’t allowed on the ice. You can take photos from off the ice.
- The regular entrance is on the lower level at 49th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. VIP guests enter from 50th Street.
- If you’re coming mainly to skate beneath the illuminated Christmas tree, keep in mind that it is lit from early December to early January.
- Admission for January onwards may be included in one of the sightseeing passes. Check out here which pass includes the ice rink.
