This Rooftop Skating Rink Has Amazing Views of the NYC Skyline

Rockefeller Center might be the most famous skating rink in New York City, but last winter it got some serious competition from a new rink atop the William Vale Hotel in Brooklyn. First opened last January, the rink is located on the 23rd floor of the building and affords sweeping views of the city skyline. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic canceling so many of our favorite winter activities, the Vale Rink will thankfully remain open this winter.

Photo: The William Vale

When it opened last January, Nick Angel, general manager of Vale Rink, told Lonely Planet, “We’re dedicated to staying well connected to the community and finding experiences that can tailor to visitors and locals alike. We always wanted to introduce a skating rink to the property and thought the rooftop would make the perfect destination. It allows us to take advantage of our unique location and views of the Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan skyline during the winter months.”

Photo: The William Vale

This winter you won’t just be able to show up, however. You’ll have to make a reservation to visit via email.

The rink is open Wednesday through Friday from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Entry costs $20 for adults and $12 for children under the age of 12, and that includes skate rentals and lockers.

A version of this article was previously published on January 13, 2020, and was updated on December 15, 2020, with more information.