Wollman Rink

The Basics

Skating on Wollman Rink is an annual tradition for many New Yorkers. In addition to public skating sessions, the rink also hosts classes for adults and children, as well as freestyle figure skating sessions. Rink visits are included on many movie location tours, and some winter walking tours of Central Park include tickets so that participants can go skating. During the summer months, the site transforms into an amusement park.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Wollman Rink is a fun, festive activity for winter visitors.

• There is a spectator fee, so if you want to watch friends or family from the sidelines, be prepared to pay.

• Skates and lockers can be rented at the rink.

• Credit cards are not accepted, so be sure to bring cash.

• A snack bar at the rink serves food and drinks, including hot cocoa.

How to Get There

Wollman Rink is located at the southeastern corner of Central Park, near the entrance at 59th Street and Sixth Avenue. To reach the rink by subway, take the N, Q, R, W, F, or M train to 57th Street.

When to Get There

Wollman Rink is open daily from late October until early April. On Mondays and Tuesdays, the rink opens to the public in the late morning and closes in the early afternoon; Wednesday–Sunday the rink stays open until late at night. Ice cleaning takes place several times a day and can take up to 30 minutes; check the schedule in advance of your visit. The rink is especially atmospheric after dark, when the skyline twinkles in the background.

The History of Wollman Rink

A much-loved New York icon, Wollman Rink takes its name from philanthropist Kate Wollman, who originally donated the funds for its construction. Today, however, it is better known for its association with President Donald Trump: In 1980, when the rink needed significant renovations, a number of mishaps caused the city-run project to stall. In 1986, a then 39-year-old Donald Trump took over the renovations and reopened the rink. Wollman Rink remains in the hands of a company owned by the Donald J. Trump Revocable Trust.

Is visiting Wollman Rink worth it?

Yes, visiting Wollman Rink is worth it. The Central Park ice skating rink has the Manhattan skyline as its backdrop—skating here is a New York City tradition. It’s also a must for film buffs: Wollman Rink has appeared in dozens of films, from Home Alone 2 to Love Story.

Do you need tickets to skate at Wollman Rink?

Yes, you need tickets to skate at Wollman Rink. To minimize lines, the rink offers timed arrival tickets. You can get in line up to 30 minutes before, or after, the time listed on your ticket. Once you’re on the ice, you can skate for as long as you want.

Does Wollman Rink have bathrooms?

Yes, there are bathrooms at Wollman Rink. You’ll need a ticket to use the restroom as it’s located beyond the entrance gates. The rink bathrooms are not wheelchair accessible. You’ll find nearby accessible public bathrooms in Central Park at the Arsenal (weekends only) and the Chess & Checkers House.

Is there parking at Wollman Rink?

No, there’s no parking at Wollman Rink. There are several parking garages near Wollman Rink, however. Find paid parking garages on West 58th Street, West 57th Street, and Sixth Avenue. By subway, take the N, R, W to Fifth Avenue-59th Street or A, B, C, D to 59th St-Columbus Circle.

What is the best time of year to visit Wollman Rink?

Ice skating season at Central Park’s Wollman Rink goes from late October through mid-March, but one of the most spectacular times to visit is for the December holidays. That’s when seasonal events, twinkling decorations, and special snacks create a festive atmosphere. (You might even spot Santa hanging out rinkside.)

What should I wear to go ice skating in Central Park?

Bring layers on an ice skating trip to Central Park—once you do a few laps, you may decide to shed your heavy overcoat. It’s also a good idea to bring extra socks to ensure a snug fit in rental ice skates; a few pairs of thin, wool socks work well.

Ways to explore

Skating at Wollman Rink is an annual tradition for many New Yorkers. Lace up your skates and take them for a spin on the rink, book an ice skating lesson to learn some pro tips, or purchase a season pass to enjoy the ice all winter long. A visit to this seasonal favorite is also included on several Central Park tours, including winter walking tours and TV and movie location tours. In the summer months, head to the rink to play a game of pickleball.

Accessibility

The rink is accessible for wheelchairs; special assistance can be arranged in advance; the closest accessible restrooms are at Heckscher Playground.

Age limits

None, and admission is free for children under 3.

What to pack

Bring along your ice skates (rentals are also available), sunglasses, camera, pre-purchased ticket (on-the-spot tickets often sell out), and cash, as on-site transactions are cash-only.

What to wear

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing; warm hat and gloves

Not allowed

Large bags, coolers, and luggage, outside food and drinks, pets (except for service animals, and no animals are allowed on the rink), skateboards, selfie sticks, GoPros, and tripods

Amenities

Cafés, skate rental, rinkside lounge (spectator fees apply), locker rental (no bags are allowed on the ice), first aid station, restroom

Address

Wollman Rink is located at the southeastern corner of Central Park, near the entrance at 59th Street and Sixth Avenue. Subway stations are nearby.

Driving

There’s no direct car access to Central Park, and parking in the area will likely cost more than a taxi or rideshare service. Walking, taking a cab, or riding the subway are your best bets.

Public transportation

The closest subway stations are 5th Avenue–59th Street (N, R, W) at the southeastern corner of Central Park, or 57th Street (F) and 57th Street–7th Avenue (N, Q, R, W), both about a 10-minute walk from the rink.

Best times to visit

Book an early-morning slot for a peaceful skating experience, or embrace the crowds and come around sunset or after dark—the rink stays open late on Friday and Saturday evenings—for the most magnificent views of the NYC skyline. Whenever you choose, it’s best to reserve your tickets in advance.

Best days to visit

You can skate any day of the week, but Mondays and Tuesdays are generally the quietest days, though the rink closes in the early afternoon. Off-peak tickets are almost half-price, so check the schedule in advance and avoid peak and prime days if you can.

Best months to visit

The ice rink is open from late October through mid-March, and it’s often jam-packed around Thanksgiving and Christmas—come in early November or February to dodge the crowds.

Special events

Wear your best Halloween costume for the Fall Festival, which marks the opening of the rink in October, and make the most of the free skating. Look out for pop-up ice skating shows during the holidays, and igloo rentals too.