As we reached for our puffers this morning before stepping out into the crisp air we couldn’t help but think: whether we like it or not, winter is gearing up to freeze us over tenfold.
And sure, we could spend our time dreading the icy season–especially since a weather forecast predicts bursts of winter storms and plenty of snow for NYC–but we could also take a page out of the book of positivity and look forward to all the exciting things winter brings us, like ice skating!
And the time to lace up your skates has arrived–a brand new ice skating rink has frozen over in Central Park’s north end for the first time ever, bringing the joy of skating back to the Harlem community.
The new Gottesman Rink has totally restored Central Park’s north end, transforming the Davis Center into a friendly neighborhood hub of year-round programming for the Harlem community.
From ice skating to ice hockey, New Yorkers of all ages will have the chance to shred the ice and partake in a robust roster of festive programming all winter long–all with stunning views of the Harlem Meer! A number of local small businesses and nonprofits will facilitate various free and low-cost programming offered during the rink season.
Programming includes:
- ⛸️ My Tot & Me – 30-minute sessions designed to build confidence and coordination through games and gentle guidance (children ages 2-5)
- ⛸️ Learn to Skate: Basic Skills 1-8 – group lessons for every age and skill level—from tots to adults—to build confidence and learn the basic skills of skating
- ⛸️ Adult Hockey Clinic – a five-week hockey clinic designed for beginner and intermediate players ready to level up
- ⛸️ Figure Skating – expert instruction, supportive coaching, and plenty of ice time to help skaters shine
And, of course, there will be community skate sessions open to all ages and abilities.
The Gottesman Rink is now open for the season and will remain open through March 8, 2026. Community Skate Sessions begin at $5 for adults ages 17+ ($10 during peak hours) and $5 for children ages 4-16. Sessions range from one to two hours based on the day and time.
The rink also offers skate rentals ($10), locks ($5), skate aids ($10), and skate sharpening ($15).
The Davis Center is a vibrant, community-first destination offering year-round activities and access to Central Park’s north end. This will be the first time, though, that the area has housed its own ice rink. Betsy Smith, President and CEO of the Central Park Conservancy, stated:
With the opening of the Gottesman Rink, the Central Park Conservancy celebrates both a new chapter for the Davis Center and the culmination of more than four decades of dedication to Central Park. What began in 1980 with a few determined volunteers has grown into a parkwide transformation that reimagines what’s possible in public greenspace.
The new ice rink joins NYC’s roster of already iconic rinks in places like Rockefeller Center, Industry City, Domino Park, and, of course, Central Park’s existing Wollman Rink.
⛸️ Gottesman Rink – Know Before You Go
- 📍 Where: Davis Center, Central Park – 106-51 East Drive
- 🗓 When: November 15, 2025 – March 8, 2026 (check the Davis Center calendar for skating info)
- 💲 Pricing: Starts at $5
- ❓ More info: Here