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We know that summer is all about fun and sand—while fall—with its attractive explosion of color, is Americans’ favorite season. Yet winter is not all hoods, snow, and cold. Winter comes with its own wide range of enjoyable activities in an ambiance that’s quiet, cozy, and spotless. One of winter’s highlights is the chance to go ice skating. Nothing compares to the thrill of gliding on slippery ice and coasting down at precarious angles. There’s fun and art, and in between, almost the whole range of human emotions.
Here’s the exciting part. The Big Apple boasts so many places that are all great spots for ice skating. Regardless, two ice skating spots tend to be frequent mentions: Central Park and Rockefeller Center. In this article, we shine the spotlight on the two and reveal what exactly makes ice skating in the one—different from ice skating in the other.
Factors That Make Central Park A Better Ice Skating Destination Than Rockefeller
Right off the bat. If cost is the primary consideration, then there’s no contest here. Central Park is way cheaper than Rockefeller. For instance, at the Wollman Rink in Central Park, adults get to pay $15 during off-peak seasons, $25 during peak seasons, and $35 during prime seasons, mainly holidays. On the other hand, at the rink at Rockefeller, adult skaters will part with anywhere between $11 and $73, depending on the day, the season, and the time. So while the most someone will pay at Central Park is $35, at Rockefeller, it’s $73—a tidy $38 more. Even if one factors in their free lockers, Rockefeller is still more expensive than Central Park.
Another significant advantage of Central Park, aside from cost, is that it’s bigger and roomier compared to Rockefeller. For skaters, that’s a big deal. The Skating experience is enhanced by the space available and will be dampened somewhat if the space is cramped and crowded with people who do nothing but stare. So yes, if space means something, Central Park gets the palm. And with space at Central Park comes incredible views. Skaters usually enjoy gliding around the rink with the Big Apple’s skyline in the backdrop.
- When Is Wollman Rink Open? Wollman Rink is typically open from late October to early April, weather permitting.
Then again, while the skating time slot at Rockefeller is 60 minutes, one can skate in Central Park practically for as long as he wants. Even if there are (inconvenient) breaks at Central Park for cleaning the ice, skaters can get back if they want to. Many opt not to. At this time, they’ve usually had enough. Another significant advantage of Central Park over Rockefeller is the range of activities on offer. The truth is that aside from skating, there are so many other activities one can enjoy at Central Park. Lastly, even though Central Park can be crowded, it’s nothing compared to Rockefeller. Therefore, for those who don’t like queuing for long hours, Central Park has a slight edge over Rockefeller.
Factors That Make Rockefeller A Better Ice Skating Destination Than Central Park
Coming to Rockefeller, one thing that stands out is its status, prestige, and legacy. That’s something no one can take from it. Once called “the skating pond,” the Rockefeller rink is part and parcel of the Big Apple’s culture and has been highlighted in several novels and films such as Elf and Collateral Beauty. Among the celebrities who’ve glided on its ice include Serena Williams, Sarah Hughes, and the famous American novelist and screenwriter Truman Capote. For those who find this aspect appealing, Rockefeller will be the place to go. It’s New York’s most iconic skating rink, with one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in the world only a few steps away.
Aside from Rockefeller's prestige, its ambiance is decidedly more appealing, upscale, and even romantic. That’s the reason it also hosts wedding ceremonies. This speaks to its idyllic, romantic side. Another advantage of the Rockefeller Rink is that skaters get free lockers. It’s part of the pricing package. Of course, whether this makes Rockefeller cheaper overall is another matter. Then the skates at Rockefeller are just the best skates out there. Granted, some may view this as somewhat mundane, but we don’t think so. The advantage of Rockefeller’s skates is that they don’t need to be laced up. They are also easier to adjust. That just about sums it up.
Between Rockefeller And Central Park, Which Is Better For Ice Skating?
Looking at the factors, we’ve detailed here, we should have a consensus on this. Central Park is a better skating spot than Rockefeller. The Pros of Central Park are its relative affordability, skating space, the fact that it’s slightly less crowded, the range of other activities on offer, the longer time slot, and the magical views of the city’s skyline. On the other hand, the Pros of skating at Rockefeller are its iconic status, its idyllic, upscale look, and the style of the skates they give.
Whichever destination one goes with, skating is a thrilling spot that one can enjoy at any venue.