Illustration of two skaters in red coats and knitted hats on a small ice rink beside a snowman, trees and a glowing hut (Empire State Plaza Ice Rink)
Other Christmas Activities

Empire State Plaza Ice Rink

Visitors can take to the outdoor ice rink and skate counterclockwise in the shadow of the state capitol complex. An adjacent glass pavilion provides skate rentals, coin-operated lockers, and vending machines. On weekends, visitors can also enjoy food trucks and hot drink vendors.

Fri, Dec 4, 2026 All ages

Website / Tickets

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Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Skating is free. Skate rentals are $5.00; skate sizes range from child size 8 to adult size 15, subject to availability, and a photo ID is required to rent skates. Locker rentals are 25¢.

Hours

Tuesday through Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.; 2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.; 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.; 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday: closed.

Neighborhood

Empire State Plaza

Food & Drink

Food trucks and hot drink vendors are available on weekends; vending machines are in the adjacent glass pavilion.

Parking

The underground Visitor’s Parking Lot is accessible from the Empire State Plaza exit ramp off I-787.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and casual skaters

Vibe

Casual and active

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Bring a photo ID if renting skates, since it is required; rental sizes run from child 8 through adult 15, subject to availability.
  • Bring quarters for the pavilion’s 25¢ lockers, which give you a place to store belongings while skating.
  • Check rink notifications before leaving because hours and events can change with weather; text ESPICE to 888777 for delay or closure alerts.
  • Skate counterclockwise and keep moving throughout your session, following rink attendants’ instructions to comply with safety rules.
  • Dress warmly for outdoor skating, since the rink is outside and cold conditions can affect comfort.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Skating is free.

Links & Contact

Run by New York State Office of General Services

Website / Tickets Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can visitors do at the rink?

Skate counterclockwise on the outdoor rink; skate rentals, lockers and vending machines are available in the adjacent glass pavilion.

Are skate rentals available, and what should I bring?

Skates are available to rent in a range of sizes, subject to availability. Bring photo ID to rent them.

What food and drinks are available?

Food trucks and hot drink vendors are available on weekends; vending machines are in the glass pavilion.

What should skaters know about rink rules?

Everyone must wear ice skates, skate counterclockwise and keep moving. Speed and figure skating, horseplay and outside equipment on the ice are prohibited.

Can weather affect skating?

Yes. Rink hours and events are subject to weather conditions; text notifications are available for delays or closures.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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Contributors & Updates

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