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Skating in a Winter Wonderland

© Jeanne-Michele Vigna

Well, it is officially winter and, yes, the weather outside is frightful. But you have two choices and that is to either stay in your home and drink hot toddies until you go stir crazy or get out there and revel in the beauty we call the Winter Solstice.

But in New York, there are not many places to partake in winter activities. The snow, if there is any, is usually brown and slushy. There is no where to ski or sled. But, there are plenty of places to ice skate and what better way to enjoy the season, make friends and laugh at the cold but on thin blades that dig directly into heart of winter. And, with the hustle and the bustle of the holidays behind us, now is the time to take advantage of New York's winter wonderland.

Of course, the Rink at Rockefeller Center is the most recognized and thought of place to ice skate in New York City. The image of gliding under the watching eyes of Paul Manship's 1934 statue of Prometheus, ice dancing below the flags of all nations, all conjure up images of romance and old New York. But this is the most touristy and expensive place to skate with prices Monday - Friday at $13, and $15 for weekends per one and a half-hour session. Skate rentals per session are $7.

For a little lest money and all the way on the West Side of town, Chelsea Piers Skyrink offers twice the fun with its indoor twin rink facility. Located on Pier 61 of the 30-acre sports village, the Chelsea Piers Skyrink operates 24 hours a day 7 days a week, year round. An adult ticket costs $11.50 to skate; $8 for children and seniors. Skate rentals cost $5. While the east rink is used for hockey, the west rink is where the general sessions are offered. Note: the ice seems to be scheduled for something at all times so it is best to check ahead before showing up.

Probably most popular among the locals, and even cheaper yet is Wollman Rink Outdoors - located in Central Park South. It is an easy commute via subway. Admission is $7 for adults and $3.50 children and seniors. And cheaper yet, skate rentals are a mere $3.50. You can rent lockers $2.75. There is even a cafe for hot chocolate and snacks. And, you have the opportunity to skate under the beautiful skyline of Manhattan. (As anywhere, weekday evenings are probably the best time to skate here.)

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