Ice Skating in The Pond, Bryant Park, NY

Written by Carol Cain on 28 December 2009

Bryant Park is one of my favorite smaller parks in NYC. I have written about it here before. It is the main location of every year’s Fashion Week , and of many more events year round. But in the Winter especially, the park is transformed into a Winter Wonderland, and The Pond is created hosting a free skating rink, along with shops for the holidays, a gorgeous Christmas tree, and bar/restaurant, Celsius, with heating lamps that make it possible to enjoy a hot cup of cocoa, or whatever other beverage you prefer in the seating area outside overlooking the skaters.

My family and I have spent many evenings here and though the crowds closer to the Holiday season make it harder to skate with the little ones who are still just learning, the people watching is still fabulous, and the scenery such an example of what makes NYC wonderful. After the recent snow fall my kids had more fun playing in the snow and so that’s what they did instead as my husband and I watched the skaters and enjoyed the evening out.

The Pond has holiday hours in place till the 31 of December, with regular hours resuming on January 1, so check their website for details.

If you are still celebrating the holidays, or just want to celebrate the beautiful winter season in the marvelous city, head over to Bryant Park. It’s centrally located, between the West and East side of Manhattan as well.

During our most recent visit we had come from taking in the window displays at Bloomingdale’s and eating ice cream at Dylan’s Candy Bar. Then after visiting The Pond, we headed West and walk through Times Square, past Toy’s R Us and other favorite spots along the way.

And it’s a perfect setting whether it’s family night, or date night. I encourage you to visit before it is gone again for the season. Though I love it most at night, when the lights of the city are looking down upon us, it truly is a fun place to visit no matter what time of day.