It's hard to believe that The Rink at Rockefeller Center in New York City has reopened already for the season (especially since it was 80 degrees on opening day); however, the fact remains the world famous ice skating rink is once again welcoming guests. Here is what you will need to know for the 2017 - 2018 season.
The ice rink officially reopen with a ceremony on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at 8:30 AM and will feature Olympic gold medalists Charlie White and Meryl Davis. (Public skating has already begun.)
Skating at The Rink
Skating at The Rink is open daily to the general public.
You have two options to use the rink. The first option is to simply show up and wait in line. (It should be noted this can be a very long wait during peak times.) The second option is to select and prebook one of the VIP packages available. (VIP packages can be booked online.)
General admission is on a first come, first serve basis. Skating seasons are available at the following times:
- 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
- 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
- 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
- 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
- 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
- 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
- 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM
- 10:30 PM - Midnight
Pricing
Adults (per person):
- $25 Standard times (October 7, 2017 - November 3, 2017); (November 6, 2017 - November 9, 2017); (November 13, 2017 - November 15, 2017)
- $27 Holiday times (November 4 - 5, 2017); (November 10 -12, 2017); (November 16 - 21, 2017); (November 27, 2017); (December 4 -7, 2017); (December 11 -14, 2017)
- $32 Peak times (November 22 - 26, 2017); (November 20, 2017 - December 3, 2017); (December 8 - December 10, 2017); (December 15, 2017 - January 1, 2018)
Children 11 and under and senior citizens are $15 per person (regardless of date.)
Skates are available at the ice rink for $11 per person.
Special Events/VIP Admission
The Rink at Rockefeller Center offers a variety of special events and VIP admission options throughout the season. It should be noted that special events such as Breakfast with Santa or VIP admission packages must be booked in advance online. (Prepayment is required for most special events/VIP admission packages.)
VIP Skating
VIP Skating offers set skating times without waiting, complimentary skate rental, skate concierges, in and out privileges, access to the heated igloo, as well as, beverages and cookies.
Prices for VIP skating are as follows:
- Standard: $60 | October 14 - November 17, 2017
- Holiday: $75 - $150 | November 18, 2017 - January 7, 2018
All VIP guests must have a ticket including non-skaters.
Reservations can be made by visiting the website online. Questions? Call the Rink at (212) 332-7654.
Breakfast With Santa
Enjoy "Breakfast with Santa" at either the Rock Center Cafe or the Sea Grill restaurants both located in the lower concourse of Rockefeller Plaza with direct views of the ice rink.
Both venues offer family style breakfast, a visit from Santa with photo opportunities, carolers singing holiday songs and complimentary ice skating including by-passing the line at The Rink. Prices vary by dates.
Sea Grill:
- $110-$150 per adult
- $70-$95 per child
Time: 8:15 AM
Rock Center Café:
- $75-$125 per adult
- $55-$85 per child
Times: 7:15 AM, 8:45 AM & 9:15 AM
More information including available dates, menus and reservations can be found by visiting the website online.
Engagement on Ice
One of the most popular special events available at The Rink is the Engagement on Ice package. This season there are three package levels available:
Silver prices between $350 to $500
The "Silver Proposal Package"
Silver prices between $350 to $500
- Special skate passes for 2 people (includes admission and skates and you by-pass the wait line)
- Exclusive ice time at the end of your skating session when everyone but the two of you are escorted from the rink
- Playing your favorite song during your proposal. It should be noted that you must provide the CD.
- A celebratory Champagne toast enjoyed rink-side
The "Gold Proposal Package"
Gold prices between $550 - $750
- Includes everything the Silver package
- A bottle of Veuve Cliqcuot Champagne with two Riedel flutes (gift wrapped)
- Skate passes are upgraded to 2 admission passes and includes igloo access
The "Platinum Proposal Package"
Platinum prices between $800 - $1000
- A five-course Chef's Tasting Menu for Two at either Rock Center Cafe or The Sea Grill with guaranteed rink-side seating
- A dozen red roses waiting at your table
- A bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne on ice upon arrival at your guaranteed rink-side table
To learn more about Engagements on Ice including available dates and reservations visit the website online.
Christmas at Rockefeller Center
Perhaps one of the best known and most beloved special events at The Rink at Rockefeller Center is the annual Christmas tree lighting. This year the annual tree lighting will take place on Wednesday, November 29, 2017, from 7 PM to 9 PM. Television broadcast will be presented by NBC. Check your local listings for scheduling.
For more information about all events at The Rink at Rockefeller Center for the 2017 - 2018 season visit their website or call (212) 332-7654.
