NYC Skating Season Returns: Wollman Rink in Central Park Opens Oct. 28

Wollman Rink, the outdoor skating rink in Central Park, opens for the season on Oct. 28 and stays open through mid-March 2027. Skaters glide with the Midtown skyline rising beyond the trees, which is much of the rink's appeal.

Tickets are on sale now through the rink's online calendar, where each day is marked by pricing tier: Off-Peak, Peak or Prime. Oct. 28 through 30 are Off-Peak days, and Oct. 31 is a Community Day open to everyone. Season passes for 2026-27 are also available.

On site, the rink offers skate rentals and a range of lessons, including group and private sessions, plus figure skating and hockey programs. Beginners and experienced skaters are both welcome. The rink also schedules themed skating nights, live performances and holiday events through the winter, and takes bookings for groups and private events.

For food, Melba's operates at the rink, serving Southern cooking from restaurateur Melba Wilson. It is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., which makes it an easy stop for something hot after time on the ice. A café is also part of the site.

Wollman Rink is at 830 Fifth Avenue and operates under NYC Parks. It suits a date, a family outing or a visit with friends from abroad who want a classic New York winter.