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Empire State Plaza Ice Rink

Free ice skating on the plaza reflecting pool November through March — skate rental $5, hot chocolate in the concourse, and the Capitol lit up over your shoulder.

Where
Downtown Albany
Time needed
1-2 hr visit
Tickets
Free
Free entry
Yes
Empire State Plaza ice skating rink in winter Empire State Plaza ice skating rink in winter

What to expect at Empire State Plaza Ice Rink

Every winter from mid-November to mid-March, the north end of the Empire State Plaza reflecting pool becomes a free public ice rink, run by New York State. It's genuinely free to skate on — the only charge is $5 for skate rental, or free if you bring your own. Ice is refrigerated (not natural), so it holds up through freeze-thaw cycles that would ruin a natural rink, and there's music, warming lights, and a small concessions kiosk on-site.

The rink is about a third the length of the reflecting pool, big enough that it doesn't get too crowded even on Saturday afternoons. Skate rental is at the small kiosk on the east side (bring photo ID as deposit). Adjacent to the rink is a fire pit with benches. In the underground concourse directly below, there's hot chocolate, coffee and warm food at the plaza cafe. The Capitol looms at the north end lit gold at night — genuinely one of the most photogenic winter urban scenes in the state.

Family-friendly with a beginner-loop area at the south end. Fridays and Saturdays run until 21:00 for evening skating; the Capitol light and empty plaza on a cold February Friday night is a proper Albany moment. Not held every day — check the state's Empire State Plaza website for closures due to warm weather or events. Genuinely the best free winter thing to do in Albany with kids.

Plan your visit TicketsFree Free entryYes Time needed1-2 hr visit WhereDowntown Albany Opening hours Mon-Thu 11:00-19:00 Fri 11:00-21:00 Sat-Sun 10:00-21:00 Nov-Mar weather permitting Hotels near Empire State Plaza Ice Rink

Questions about Empire State Plaza Ice Rink

How much is the ice rink?

Free to skate. Skate rental $5 with photo ID as deposit.

Is it really free?

Yes — the rink itself is always free, no admission fee. Only rental costs money.

How long to skate?

One to two hours is typical. No time limit on the ice while the rink is open.

When is the rink closed?

Runs mid-November to mid-March, weather permitting. Occasional weather closures — check empirestateplaza.ny.gov. Never open in summer at this location.

Do I need to book?

No booking. Walk-up rentals only, cash and card accepted.

How do I get there?

North end of Empire State Plaza. Multiple CDTA routes stop at the Plaza. Free weekend parking in the Plaza visitor garage.

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