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Wampus Pond Park, 102-acres in size, is located at Route 128, Armonk NY 10504, Westchester County. Wampus Pond is named after the Indian from whom this land was bought in 1696. Wampus Pond means “opossum". A recent cultural resources inventory performed by Parker Harrington indicates that early 20th century rock shelters, several Native American artifacts and remnants of historically significant residential developments were found within or near the park.
The natural pond, at one time known as Wampus Lake Reservoir, was once part of the New York City water supply. In 1963 the County bought Wampus pond and 93-acres from the City of New York.
Things To Do Boating Boat Rental (summer weekends) Fishing Ice-Skating Nature Study Picnicking
Bedford Hills Park is located in the hamlet of Bedford Hills. It is one of several parks in the municipality of Bedford. For all year fun and activities, enjoy the many activities available at Bedford Hills Park. In the hot days of summer, go swimming. In the winter, enjoy ice-skating. Year-round, play baseball, basketball, go fishing, hiking and more at Bedford Hills Park.
Things To Do Baseball Basketball Fishing Nature Area Playground Picnicking Shelter Soccer Softball Swimming Pools Tennis Walking Trails
Bedford Village Memorial Park is located in the beautiful hamlet of Bedford Village. It is one of several parks in the municipality of Bedford that offer Summer Day Camp programs and many other activities.
Things To Do Baseball Basketball Fishing Football Ice Skating Paddle Tennis Picnicking Playground Shelter Soccer Softball Summer Day Camp Swimming Pools Tennis
Twin Lakes Park & Nature Study is located at California Road, Eastchester, New York. Twin Lakes offers a wooded nature study area with several trails. Twin Lakes Park was named after the two lakes on the property. The property used to belong to the Mahlsted family and included an icehouse. The park contains mostly wooded areas but there are also fields and marshlands and several ponds. Two stables hire out horses for riding on existing bridle trails.
Things To Do Equestrian Trails Fishing Hiking / Walking Nature Study Stables
Westchester Skating Academy is located at 91 Fairview Park Drive, Elmsford, NY 10523. Built in 1996, the Westchester Skating Academy is a premiere skating facility in the Westchester County Area. Conveniently located in Elmsford New York, WSA is an NHL twin rink facilities in Westchester County. Open seven days a week, we offer quality skating programs in a warm and nurturing atmosphere.
Ice Activities and Attractions Ice Skating Programs for Adults Ice Skating Programs for Children
Ice Hockey Adult Men's Leaque Adult Women's Hockey Hockey Lessons Hockey Camps Hockey Clinics Pick-Up Hockey Stick Time Youth Hockey
Press blue button for more about Westchester Skating Academy's ice skating programs for children and young adults, Skater Clinics for advanced ice skaters, Freestyle Sessions, Private Lessons, and Specialty Classes.
V. E. Macy Park is a 172-acre park centrally located at Saw Mill River Road, Irvington, New York. The park is actually divided into three distinct areas with slightly different atmospheres. One part functions as a local park with ballfields, a playground, comfort station and picnic pavilion. Another includes Woodlands Lake, fishing, ice skating, access to the South County Trailway, and 500 feet of the former Putnam Division Railroad. The final area is largely undeveloped.
The Great Hunger Memorial “A section of V. E. Macy Park has been renamed so that the history of the Irish who fled to Westchester in the 1840s to escape poverty and famine will never be forgotten".
Point of Interest: The Great Hunger Memorial
Things To Do Fishing Great Hunger Memorial Picnicking Playground
The Harvey School Rink is located in the Harvely School, at 260 Jay Street (Route 22) Katonah, NY 10536 in Westchester County. The Harvey School Rink has been operating a group ice skating lesson program for over twenty five years. The Basic Skills Program for SPS 1 through Freeskate 4 is sanctioned by the United States Figure Skating (USFS). Classes are taught by qualified and nationally certified skating professionals.
Hommocks Park Ice Rink, offering public skating, a skating school, youth hockey and more, is located at Hommocks Park Ice Rink, 140 Hommocks Road, Larchmont, NY 10538 in Westchester County.
Mamaroneck's popular enclosed public skating facility has been offering fun for the entire family since 1975. Take the opportunity to learn to ice skate, play hockey or sharpen your skills. Special promotions and events are offered throughout the season.
The Hommocks Park Ice Rink offers skating lessons for ages 4 through adults. Ribbons or badges will be given to skaters qualified to advance to the next level.
Ice Activities and Attractions Birthday Parties
Ice Skating Figure Skating Ice Skating Ice Skating School Public Skating
Ice Hockey Hockey Camps/Clinics Hockey Programs Hockey Tournament Stick Time Youth Hockey
Press blue button for available ice time, special events, birthday parties, and more about Hommocks Park Ice Rink.
The Ice Hutch, a domed sports complex offering indoor Ice Skating and Ice Hockey in the winter, is located at 655 Garden Avenue, Mt. Vernon, NY 10536 in Westchester County.
Ice Activities and Attractions Concession Parties Proshop
Ice Skating Figure Skating Ice Skating Ice Skating Rentals Ice Skating School Public Skating
Ice Hockey Ice Hockey Ice Hockey Lessons Open Hockey Stick Time
Willson's Woods Park is located at East Lincoln Avenue, Mount Vernon NY 10550, Westchester County. Willson's Woods is one of the oldest parks in Westchester County. Willson’s Woods is a 23-acre park offering a beautiful swimming pool and adjacent English Tudor style bathhouse along with areas for picnicking and fishing.
Point of Interest: A special feature of Willson's Woods Park is "Willson's Waves" where you can body surf on 3-foot waves in the county's first-ever wave pool. Splash downward on an 18-foot-high water slide, wander through cascades and fountains in the water playground, or just cool off on the spray deck.
Things To Do Fishing Hiking Trails Nature Study Picnicking Playground Refreshments Willson's Waves
Mountain Lakes Park is located at Hawley Road, North Salem NY 10560, Westchester County and is Westchester’s northernmost county park. It is set on 1038-acres and is characterized by a rugged landscape and native hardwood forest with miles of trails. Situated in this lovely park is Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester. Mt. Baily offers breathtaking vistas in every season. The park offers many types of recreational activities including boating, group and self-reliant camping.
Things To Do Boating Camping Fishing Hiking Trails Mt. Bailey (Westchester's Highest Point) Nature Study
Blue Mountain is located at Welcher Avenue in Peekskill, NY. Blue Mountain is a 1500-acre park in the northwest section of Westchester County. It is primarily a passive park. It features miles of trails for mountain biking, hiking, walking, nature study and more. It also offers challenging hikes to the tops of two large peaks: Mt. Spitzenberg and Blue Mountain. The park contains a bathhouse and Trail Lodge, as well as two historically significant comfort stations. These comfort stations were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps and are reminiscent of early 20th century National Park structures
Things To Do Camping Equestrian Trails Fishing Hiking / Walking Mountain Biking Nature Study Playground Picnicking Sportman Center Target Shooting Range
Depew Park is located at 363 Union Avenue, Peekskill NY 10566, Westchester Avenue. Depew Park, about 60-acres in size, is home to the City Recreation Office. You can enjoy a swim in Veterans Memorial Pool or walk on the many wooded trails. Enjoy the picnic pavilion overlooking Lake Mitchell or play a game of horseshoes at the horseshoe court. There is also a basketball court, tennis courts, a bocce ball court and playgrounds.
Things To Do Baseball Fields (2) Basketball Court Biking Trails Bocce Ball Court Fishing Hiking / Walking Horseback Riding Horseshoes Picnicking (view of Lake Mitchell) Playgrounds Swimming (Olympic-sized Pool and a Baby Pool) Tennis Courts Tracks (2)
The Pound Ridge Town Park is located at 199 Westchester Avenue, Pound Ridge NY 10576, Westchester County. Pound Ridge Park is a beautiful local park offering many activities for toddlers, children, teens, and adults. A Day Camp is available for an exciting summer of fun for children. Other activities, such as exercise programs, bridge group, toddler art, little league, tennis, basketball, and other sports are open to all ages. Press blue button for more about this wonderful park.
Things To Do Ball Fields Hiking Trails / Walking Picnicking Playgrounds (Toddler and older children's playgrounds) Showers Snack Bar Swimming Pools (Toddler, mid-size, and Olympic size pool) Tennis
The Playland Ice Casino is located at Playland Parkway (Exit 19 off I-95) Rye, New York 10580. Playland Ice Casino has been Westchester's premier ice skating facility for over 80 years. Three temperature-controlled indoor rinks make for a comfortable, family fun ice skating experience. The Playland Ice Casino offers special weekday times for Freestyle, Adult Skate and Child Puck Time. Convenient public sessions, special events, extended holiday schedules await skaters this season for even more family fun.
The Playland Skating School at the Playland Ice Casino, is staffed by some of the finest professionals in the New York area. The Skating School offers quality, affordable figure and hockey skating programs to students of all ages, beginner through advanced levels.
Ice Activities and Attractions Ice Rentals Party Nights Playland Skating School Public Skating
Rye Playland is Metro New York's great family amusement park and entertainment center. Featuring more than 50 rides for children and adults, Playland also offers free entertainment and has a beach, pool, boardwalk and pier on scenic Long Island Sound, lake boating, picnic area, mini golf and indoor ice-skating.
Point of Interest: Rye Playland has the distinction of being America's first totally planned amusement park and prototype for today's successful theme parks. Dedicated as a National Historic Landmark in 1987, Playland has provided family fun since 1928. Often referred to as "Rye Playland", it is America's only government owned and operated amusement park.
The Bronx River Parkway Reservation, one of Westchester’s oldest parks, is an 807-acre paved linear park that was created as an adjunct to the Bronx River Parkway that opened in 1925. The Reservation touts a number of “firsts”. It is the first linear park in Westchester, as well as one of the first in the country, and, the Bronx River Parkway was the first parkway in the nation. The Reservation also has the distinction of being the first official Westchester County Park, whose establishment led to the creation of today’s County Park System of more than 50 parks spanning nearly 18,000-acres. The picturesque Reservation, which runs through the heart of Southern Westchester County, features ponds, wooden footbridges, and hundreds of varieties of native trees and shrubs. It is a favorite place for bicycling, walking, running and nature study.
Things To Do Fishing Hiking Trails / Walking Ice skating Nature study Recreational Trail
Kensico Dam Plaza, a 98-acre property, is located at Bronx River Parkway Valhalla, NY 10595, Westchester County. Kensico Dam Plaza is located at the base of the Kensico Dam.
Kensico gets its name from the Siwanoy sachem, "Cokenseko". It is 300 feet high and 1830 feet long. It forms the reservoir that contains 29,000 million gallons of water per day. The dam was built under the old dam that formed Lake Kensico, using stone taken from the adjacent Cranberry Lake Park. The park provides a unique setting for a wide variety of activities including ethnic celebrations, concerts, antiques shows, arts and craft shows, and nature study.
Things To Do Biking Fishing Hiking / Walking In-line Skating Nature Study Outdoor Film Festival Picnicking Playground Refreshments
The Ebersole Ice Rink, an indoor ice skating rink, is located in the Carl J. Delfino Park at 30 Lake Street, White Plains, NY 10603 in Westchester County.
Ice Activities and Attractions Food Parents and Tots on Ice Showers & Lockers Skating Rentals Wi-Fi Free
Ice Skating Figure Skating Figure Skating Camp Figure Skating Clinic Figure Skating Club Ice Skating Lessons Public Skating
The Edward J. Murray Memorial Skating Center is located at 348 Tuckahoe Road, Yonkers, NY 10710 in Southern Westchester County. The Murray Skating Center offers the largest weekly public skating schedule in the area. Most weekend sessions feature current popular music provided by our own “Disc Jockey”.
Voted “Best Ice Skating Rink in 2006, we take pride in our meticulously maintained ice surface and attractive public skating session program. We also offer the most reasonable rates in the area making a family outing both pleasurable and affordable. Top Quality skate rentals and food service are available as well. Bring the family to Murrays’ this weekend and ask about all the other skating and hockey programs the skating center has to offer.
As skaters advance to a higher level, many join the “Yonkers Figures Skating Club”. The Club offers a variety of programs to meets the needs of the serious skater. Those interested may also try out for one of the “Synchronized Skating Teams”. Whether you are interested in figure skating, hockey or just a recreational skate at one of our many public sessions, visit the Murray Skating Center and see what a great experience skating can become for your entire family.
Ice Activities and Attractions Ice Palace Cafe Ice Rental Skate Shop Yonkers Figures Skating Club
Ice Skating Figure Skating Ice Skating Lessons Public Skating
Tibbetts Brook Park, a 161-acre park, is located at Midland Avenue, Yonkers NY 10710, Westchester County. Tibbetts Brook Park offers a large 412’ x 125’ pool. It was one of the first parks developed by Westchester County. The Park offers many recreational activities throughout the year and hosts ethnic celebrations, fairs, and festivals during the summer months.
Things To Do Ball Fields Biking Fishing Hiking / Walking In-line Skating Miniature Golf Picnicking Playground Refreshments Swimming
The Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park is located at 2957 Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights NY 10598, Westchester County. The Franklin D. Roosevelt Park offers many scenic views. The park's spacious picnic areas, which can accommodate individual families as well as large groups, may be reserved in advance. The park's large pool can hold 4,000 bathers at one time.
The park's oasis of blue water, Mohansic Lake and Crom Pond, provide excellent freshwater fishing and boating. Popular catches include bass, perch, and sun fish. A New York State Freshwater Fishing License is required. Both rowboats and pedal boats are available for rental; however, a regional boating permit allows visitors to launch their own rowboats, canoes or kayaks. For an additional fee, rowboat owners may also store their boats. In wintertime, the water's tree lined border provides a winter wonderland backdrop for ice skaters and ice fisherman.
The park's picnic areas have volleyball nets and many have softball fields or basketball courts. There is also a soccer field. Sports enthusiasts may wish to try their hand at Disc golf, a short distance from the picnic areas. You can play either 9 or 18 holes. The rules and scorecards are located at the course and loaner Frisbees are available from the park office. The park’s hills and trails are perfect for winter sports.
Things To Do Biking Boat Launch Sites Boat Rentals Fishing Food Golf Course Hiking Trails / Walking Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool Recreation Programs
Swinburne Skating Rink, is located at 26 Broad Street, Albany NY 12202, Albany County in the Hudson Valley. The Swinburne Skating Rink provides an all weather protected ice skating rink for City residents from November through March.
Bethlehem Area YMCA Ice Rink is located at 900 Delaware Avenue, Delmar NY 12054, Albany County in the Hudson Valley. The Bethlehem YMCA Ice Rink, founded in 2004, is a NHL regulation sized rink and is one of only six YMCAs in the country with indoor rink facilities. The ice rink is open seasonally from October 1 to March 31st.
Ice skating sessions for the public are one of the main attractions at the Bethlehem Area YMCA. Skating provides excellent exercise and can be great fun.
Both Adult and Youth Ice Hockey programs are available. Both beginner skaters and experienced ice hockey players are welcome.
Ice Activities and Attractions Public Skating Sessions
Ice Skating Figure Skating Figure Skating Lessons Ice Skating Lessons for Adults Ice Skating Lessons for Children
Ice Hockey Ice Hockey Lessons Adult Ice Hockey Youth Ice Hockey
Albany County Hockey Facility, offering recreational and competitive activities, is located at 830 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville NY 12211, Albany County in the Hudson Valley.
Ice Activities and Attractions Camps and Training Schools Programs for the Physically Challenged
Ice Skating Figure Skating Public Skating
Ice Hockey Adult Ice Hockey Youth Ice Hockey High School and College Hockey
Conway Ice Arena, offering public ice skating, is located at Hudson Valley Community College, 80 Vandenburgh Avenue, Troy NY 12180, Rensselaer County in the Hudson Valley.
Conway Ice Rink 18,000 square feet of space on ice surface Ice Rental Ice Skating Ice Skating Lessons Locker Rooms Pro shop and professional staff Public Skating Spectator seating for 1,000
Press blue button for available ice time, special events, birthday parties, and more about Conway Ice Arena.
in 2005 Lake Taghkanic State Park was named one of the Top 100 Campgrounds in the nation. Lake Taghkanic State Park, nestled next to Lake Taghkanic in the rolling hills and lush forests of Columbia County, offers a wonderful variety of recreational activities. The park has tent, trailer campsites, cabin, and cottage camping facilities. In the hot days of summer you can go swimming at one of the two beaches. Have picnics at the picnic grounds and launch your boat at the boat launch. In addition, the park has hiking, biking, cross-country ski and snowmobile trails. Ice skating and ice fishing are permitted when conditions are appropriate.
There are three Vacation Rental Cottages that have the amenities of home. The units are outfitted with a bathroom with toilet and shower, a kitchen with hot and cold running water, refrigerator, stove, microwave, cooking and eating utensils, enclosed/screened-in back porch facing the water, a picnic table and fire ring. Press blue button for photos, and more about Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Things To Do Beach Biking Boat Launch sites Boat Rentals Cabins & Campsites Fishing Food Hiking Hunting Pavilions Picnic Tables Playground & Playing Field(s) Showers Sledding, Snowmobiling & Snowshoeing Tent/Trailer Sites Vacation Rentals
Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park is a wonderful park for outdoor enthusiasts. This 14,086-acre park, covering land in Putnam and Dutchess counties, boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, scenic campground, and abundant opportunities for boating, hunting, fishing, and birding. On the hot days of summer, go swimming at the park's beautiful beach.
The park is also home to the Taconic Outdoor Education Center which provides high quality environmental programming. In the winter, you can enjoy the Fahnestock Winter Park that includes 15 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and an area for sledding.
The large beach at Canopus Lake is the jewel of Clarence Fahnestock Memorial Park. Its sandy shore and nearby picnic area are enjoyed by thousands of bathers. In addition to swimming, campers and day trippers can fish in or tour Canopus Lake by row boats which are available for rental by the hour or the day. Fishing by boat is permitted at Stillwater and Canopus Lakes. Fishing at both lakes and four ponds is excellent in all seasons for anglers seeking bass, pickerel, perch or brook and rainbow trout.
The scenic campground, formed along the park’s natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. The campground’s nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.
Bontecou Rink at Millbrook School "Ice Skating and Ice Hockey"
845-677-8261
Bontecou Rink is located at the Millbrook School, School Road (Rt. 44), Millbrook NY 12545, Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley. Call school for Public Skating schedule.
Ice Skating Public Skating Skate Sharpening (no rentals)
The McCann Ice Arena is located at 14 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie NY 12601, Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley. The McCann Ice Arena provides hockey and skating programs to the community and is an affiliate of the New York Rangers hockey team.
Programs include.
Freestyle Program Skaters will learn freestyle skating and moves in the field through the USFSA test structure. Daily curriculum will include on-ice instruction in free skating technique, such as jumping, spinning, moves in the field, creative movement, technical turning and elements of school figures. Off-ice training will include classes in dance and fitness/conditioning, including Pilates.
Dutchess Figure Skating Club The goals of the club are to promote the sport of figure skating, to promote sportsmanship and to provide skaters the opportunity to test within the USFS.
Learn to Play Hockey Learn what it takes to be a Blueshirt. The Future Rangers program provides a solid foundation in all the fundamental skating and hockey skills that a Ranger needs. All you need to start is your True Blue spirit.
Ice Activities and Attractions Birthday Parties Clinics and Camp Pro Shop
Ice Skating Figure Skating Freestyle Program Ice Skating Lessons Public Skating Speed Skating
The Mid-Hudson Civic Center is located at 14 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie NY 12601, Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley. The Mid-Hudson Civic Center is a private, not-for-profit community organization dedicated to providing cultural, recreational and educational opportunities to the Hudson Valley. It is a dual venue comprised of Mair Hall and McCann Ice Arena. Mair Hall is a 15,475 square foot space with the capacity to host 3,050 seated spectators and large expos and trade shows.
The McCann Ice Arena serves youth organizations, leagues and individuals for both recreational and competitive figure skating and ice hockey, and offers ice slots, group and private lesson, public skating sessions and private parties.
The Mid-Hudson Civic Center is capable of hosting a wide variety of events, including: concerts, trade shows/expos, banquets, theater shows, meetings/conferences, assemblies, family events, and parties/dances.
Press blue button for more about the Mid-Hudson Civic Center.
Windham Mountain is located at 33 Clarence D. Lane Road, Windham NY 12496, Greene County in the Hudson Valley. Windham is known for being a family-oriented ski resort. The town has over 20 restaurants and pubs, wonderful boutiques and shops, and a whole range of enjoyable activities.
One of the best ice skating centers in the region is located at the Windham Mountain Adventure Park on South Street, just 1/8 of a mile west of the ski area. Right next to the snow tubing area, you'll find a 120' x 60' skating area and a warming center complete with skate rentals.
If your children aren’t quite ready for the slopes, the Children's Learning Center offers supervised indoor care and entertainment to keep young minds engaged and happy. The Children's Learning Center is located conveniently in the Base Lodge; it has a bright, cozy space that kids warm up to very quickly.
Activities and Attractions Children's Learning Center Wheel House Restaurant mid-mountain Windham Mountain Adventure Park
Winter Outdoor Activities Skate Rentals Ice Skating Snow Tubing Tubing Hill with 650 foot slope Lifts = 3 Expert, intermediate and beginner trails Five terrain parks, complete with rails, bumps, boxes, jibs, tabletops
Indian Lake is located at Route 30, Indian Lake, NY 12842 in Hamilton County. When winter arrives, Indian Lake, Blue Mountain, and Sabael become the perfect place for playing in the snow and finding warm hospitality. Ski down a slope, ride a snowmobile or a toboggan, catch the bumps on a snowboard, ice skate, snowshoe, ice fish, or cross-country ski. Be sure to be here for our yearly Winter Festival in February.
Enjoy the pleasures of no lines and no fees; offering one T-bar and two slopes. Great for sledding and tobogganing too. Lift is open Saturday, Sunday, School vacations 12:00pm - 4:00 pm. Ice Rink is open when ice conditions permit. Located 1/2 mile from village on Rt 30. Skate rentals at Pine's Country Store.
The best the Adirondacks has to offer, Indian Lake, Blue Mountain Lake and Sabael together comprise the centerpiece vacationland of the Adirondack Park, a 6 million acre natural sanctuary of public and private land, which stretches over nearly a third of New York State.
This national treasure stands today as the largest wilderness preserve outside of Alaska and is one of the most successful conservation efforts in history. Our region is within an easy day's drive of most major cities in the Northeast.
Outdoor Winter Activities Cross-Country skiing Ice fish Ice Skate Skiing Snowboard Snowmobile and toboggan Snowshoe Winter Festival in February
Central Park is located in the very heart of New York City (Manhattan). Central Park's east side opens onto "Museum Mile" which includes the world famous "Metropolitan Museum of Art". Central Park's west side opens near New York City's Lincoln Center, home to The Metropolitan Opera House, New York Philharmonic, NYC Ballet, New York State Opera and more. The entrance on Central Park South is across from New York City's landmark Plaza Hotel. Walk a few blocks east and you will find yourself in one of the most renowned shopping areas in the world - the famed New York City's Fifth Avenue.
Central Park is located on 843-acres of beautifully landscaped park space sprinkled with wonderful statuary, classic architecture, the great lawn and more. With 25 million visitors each year, Central Park is the most frequently visited urban park in the United States. The park's many features include: the Central Park Zoo and Wildlife Center, 21 Playgrounds, Walking Tours, Music in the Park, Recreation Programs. Sports such as Bicycle Riding, Birding, Chess, cross-country Skiing, Fishing, Horseback Riding, Ice Skating, Row Boating, Swimming, Tennis, Wall Climbing are all availble. You can even take advantage of the many Nature Walks and Educational Programs.
Restaurants in Central Park Many casual eating-spots and fine dining restaurants are available in Central Park. Escape the bustle of NYC for a while and dine in an oasis of trees and flowers, or dine overlooking the lake. Press blue button for a list of restaurants in Central Park.
Just for Kids at Central Park Central Park is a wonderland for children with 21 Playgrounds, Boating, Climbing Walls, Ice Skating, Inline Skating, and don't forget that picnic while the kids play in the park. Select "Kids to Do" activities, or "Belvedere Castle" and the "Dana Discovery Center" for environmental programs. Click on "Recreation Programs" to discover the fun and exercise available including exciting Adventure programs. Press blue button for more information on "Just for Kids".
The Carousel at Central Park Central Park's first carousel was built in 1870. After a long search the Parks Department discovered the present vintage Carousel. The Carousel is one of the largest in the United States, with 58 hand-carved, painted horses. Stein and Goldstein were among the foremost carvers of their day and the horses – nearly life-size in the outer ring – are caught rearing or mid-stride with almost fierce reality.
The Carousel today still holds its magic charm, with almost 250,000 riders a year. Both adults and children enjoy the scale of the horses and the brisk speed of the ride. During warm weather the admissions line snakes around hot dog and popcorn vendors, recalling the atmosphere of a country fair.
North Meadow Recreation Center at Central Park. The North Meadow Recreation Center, south of the Meadow, was originally built as stables. It was converted to a recreation facility in the early 1990s. At 23 acres, the North Meadow is the Park's largest open space, punctuated only by the clay fans of ballfields.
Things To Do Baseball and Softball (26 ballfields) Bicycle Riding Birding Boating Chess Children's Carousel Family Fishing Horseback Riding Inline Skating Nature Walks Playgrounds (21 playgrounds) Swimming Tennis Wall Climbing Zoo
Riverbank State Park is located at 679 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10031. Riverbank State Park is the only park of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Inspired by urban rooftop designs in Japan, this 28-acre multi-level landscaped recreational facility is a state-of-the-art park facility. Rising 69 feet above the Hudson River, Riverbank offers a wide variety of recreational, athletic and arts experiences for all ages, interests and abilities.
Housed in five major buildings are an Olympic-size pool, a covered skating rink for roller skating in the summer and ice-skating in the winter, an 800-seat cultural theater, a 2,500-seat athletic complex with fitness room, and a 150-seat restaurant.
Outdoor sports amenities include a 25-yard lap pool, a wading pool, four tennis courts, four basketball courts, a softball field, four hand/paddleball courts, and a 400-meter eight-lane running track with a football/soccer field.
Riverbank also boasts spectacular promenade views of the Hudson River, the Palisade Mountains and the George Washington Bridge. At water level, there is a 900-seat amphitheater and docking facilities for excursion and fishing boats.
Points of Interest: The "Totally Kid Carousel", created by Milo Mottola and 37 young children.
Things To Do Carousel Food Gymnasium Hiking Performing Arts Center Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool Roller Skating Showers Tennis Water Level
Winter Activities Ice Skating
Amphitheater Docking facilities (excursion and fishing boats)
The Bear Mountain Ice Rink, offering Figure Skating and a Hockey Club, is located in Bear Mountain State Park. The ice rink is outdoors and uncovered, so be sure to dress appropriately, in warm clothes.
Ice Activities and Attractions Birthday Parties Ice Rental Skate Rentals
Ice Skating Figure Skating in the center of the rink Public Skating
Ice Hockey Hockey Club
Press blue button for session hours and fees, holiday hours, skate rentals, private rental, birthday parties, hockey club, figure skating and more about ice skating at the Bear Mountain Ice Rink. Call (845) 786-2701 ext. 266 for more about ice skating at the Bear Mountain Ice Rink.
Hessian Lake at Bear Mountain Park offers activities such as: fishing, paddle boat and rowboat rentals, and picnicking at Hessian Lake. For more activities and attractions go to Bear Mountain State Park.
Bear Mountain State Park is situated in rugged mountains rising from the west bank of the Hudson River. The park features a large play field, shaded picnic groves, a dock on the Hudson for mooring small craft, lake and river fishing access, a swimming pool, a zoo and nature, hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails, and ski-jumps. An outdoor rink is open to ice skaters from late October through mid-March. The Perkins Memorial Tower atop Bear Mountain affords spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park.
Things To Do Boat Rentals Fishing Hiking around the lake Nature Trail Picnic Tables Playground Playing Field(s) Pool
Fancher-Davidge Park is located at 130 Lake Avenue, the end of Lake Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940 in Orange County. Enjoy picnicking, outdoor grills, ice skating, swimming, playing fields and fishing. Fancher-Davidge Park is 112-acres and offers a large lake with enough room for hockey and family skating. Lights are on for night skating. Open to the public, weather-permitting and admission is free.
Things To Do Fishing Picnicking Playing Fields Swimming
Winter Activities Night Skating Ice Hockey Ice Skating
Chadwick Lake Park is located immediately to the northwest of Junction NY32 and 300, in the Cronomer Valley section of Newburgh NY 12550, Orange County in the Hudson River Valley.
Chadwick Lake is a reservoir supplying water to the Town of Newburgh. The reservoir was created by damming Quassaick Creek in 1926. Today, most of the town's water is supplied by New York City's Delaware Aqueduct, with the reservoir acting primarily as a backup.
Chadwick Lake Park is open to the public with recreational facilities near the southern end of the park. Attractions include three picnic shelters, a playground, walking trails, boating launches, basketball courts, ice skating and a roller rink. Fishing is also allowed on the lake; largemouth bass is a common catch.
Note: A permit is required for entrance to Chadwick Lake Park.
Things To Do Basketball Biking Trail around the lake Boating Boat launches Bocce Fishing Picnic Shelter Playground Roller Hockey Rink Roller Rink Walking/Hiking Trail around the lake
Downing Park is a 35-acre landscape park located in the heart of the City of Newburgh, Orange County, in the Hudson Valley. Filled with hills and valleys, streams, a pond, and a rich variety of vegetation, the park has serpentine paths and picturesque vista.
Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, designers and creators of Central Park in New York City, created this 35-acre urban respite named for their mentor and supporter of the public parks movement. The landscaping features many a winding path opening to a picture perfect vignette of flowering shrubs, rolling hills, a pergola and pond. Polly Pond, especially when filled with ice skaters, has been inspiration for many artists. The park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, and the Shelter House also serves as Visitor Center for the town.
Ice Time Sports Complex is located at 21 Lakeside Road, Newburgh NY 12552, Orange County in the Hudson Valley. Ice Time is an indoor rink and sports facility that is open all year. Ice Time offers many attractions including public skating, skating lessons, figure skating, youth and adult hockey.
Ice Time Sports Complex runs sessions of Learn To Skate Classes for all ages. These progressive classes take each student from the basics of getting up and skating forward, to jumps and spins for those wanting to be figure skaters, to those skaters that are looking forward to playing the fun game of hockey.
Ice Activities and Attractions Freestyle Sessions Public Skating Sessions
Ice Skating Figure Skating Lessons Figure Skating Lessons - Summer Ice Skating Lessons for Adults Ice Skating Lessons for Children Learn To Skate Camps
Bear Mountain State Park is located on the west side of the Hudson River in Orange County and Rockland County, New York. The 5,067-acre (20.51 km2) Bear Mountain State Park, flagship of the Palisades Interstate Park System, is renowned for its natural beauty and rugged mountains and is just 45 miles north of New York City, in the historic and beautiful Hudson River Valley.
Lakes, ponds, forest, hills, and mountains abound at Bear Mountain. Bear Mountain is heavily forested, offering the natural beauty of sights such as Perkins Memorial Point,
Of interest to hikers, the historic Appalachian Trail is carried across the Bear Mountain Bridge and the Popolopen Suspension Bridge. Although campgrounds and lodging are available, Bear Mountain Park is primarily a day-use park offering magnificent scenery, photo opportunities, and great hiking for all levels of hikers. The historic Bear Mountain Inn, situated in Bear Mountain Park, overlooks Hessian Lake and provides food and overnight accommodations. Food is also available at several vendors around Hessian Lake and in other areas of the park.
Bear Mountain Park attractions and activities include: a large playing field, picnic groves, rowboat docks on Hessian Lake, swimming pool and bathhouse, nature trails including key segments of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Long Path, basketball court, Trailside Museums and Zoo, Iona Island Estuarine Reserve and Bird Refuge, Perkins Tower, and the Merry-Go-Round. Many winter activities are available at Bear Mountain Park, including an outdoor rink that is open for ice-skating from late October through mid-March.
Perkins Memorial Tower sits 1,305 feet above the Hudson River, atop Bear Mountain. Perkins Point and Perkins Memorial Tower afford spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park. Driving, biking, or hiking along Perkins Memorial Drive offers breathtaking views from many vantage points leading to Perkins Memorial Tower perched at the top of the mountain. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of many picnic spots that are available along Perkins Memorial Drive.
Click to enlarge photo of sign - Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery.
Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery Walk the Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery where you will "stand on the site of Fort Clinton, which was built along with Fort Montgomery to prevent British ships from sailing up the Hudson River during the Revolutionary War. On October 6, 1777, the British captured both forts and destroyed them shortly thereafter.
"This trail leads down to the Popolopen Creek and across the Popolopen Suspension Footbridge to Fort Montgomery State Historic Site. Fort Montgomery is an archeological site and a historic ruin. Interpretive signs and an audio tour are available to help understand the history of the fort and the battle."
More fun and educational attractions for kids include the Trailside Museum and Zoo, and the Merry-Go-Round featuring 42 hand carved seats of native animals. After a ride on the merry-go-round, visit the zoo and see how many native animals you can recognize. (Perhaps your children can help name the animals.) .
Great kids Attraction - Merry-Go-Round The Merry-Go-Round at Bear Mountain features hand painted scenes of the park and 42 hand carved seats of native animals including: black bear, wild turkey, deer, raccoon, skunk, Canada goose, fox, swan, bobcat, rabbit and more.
Great kids Attraction - Trailside Museum and Zoo There are four museums at Trailside. The Reptile and Amphibian House is home to a variety of turtles, snakes, frogs, toads, salamanders and skinks as well as many species of fish. The Nature Study Museum houses specimens originally created by the Museum of Natural History to educate people about animal identification. Visitors can learn about geologic formations of the Hudson Highlands in the Geology Museum and local Native American and early settler culture in the History Museum.
Things To Do Biking Trails in Hudson Valley Boat Rentals Dockage Fishing (lake and river fishing) Food at park and at Bear Mountain Inn Hiking Trails / Walking Merry-Go-Round Pavilion Nature Trail Perkins Memorial Drive & Tower Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool (very large pool) Swimming Trailside Museums Zoo and Nature Park
The Brewster Ice Arena, offering 3 ice skating rinks, is located at 63 Fields Lane, Brewster, NY 10509, Putnam County in the Hudson Valley.
The Brewster Ice Arena is 90,000 square feet, 3 floors, has over 500 parking spaces, 2 full service professional ice rinks, a studio rink on the second floor, café/snack bar, fully stocked pro shop, The Players Club Bar and Family Restaurant,
We are home to the Skating Club of Brewster, the Brewster Bulldogs, Team Westchester, the Brewster Blackhawks and the Taconic Speedskating Club. Keep cool all summer and attend our 10 week Skating or Hockey Camps with Professional coaches.
Ice Activities and Attractions Leagues & Tournaments Parties Pro-Shop for Skating and Hockey Public Skating Restaurant & Sports Bar
Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park is a wonderful park for outdoor enthusiasts. This 14,086-acre park, covering land in Putnam and Dutchess counties, boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, scenic campground, and abundant opportunities for boating, hunting, fishing, and birding. On the hot days of summer, go swimming at the park's beautiful beach.
The park is also home to the Taconic Outdoor Education Center which provides high quality environmental programming. In the winter, you can enjoy the Fahnestock Winter Park that includes 15 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and an area for sledding.
The large beach at Canopus Lake is the jewel of Clarence Fahnestock Memorial Park. Its sandy shore and nearby picnic area are enjoyed by thousands of bathers. In addition to swimming, campers and day trippers can fish in or tour Canopus Lake by row boats which are available for rental by the hour or the day. Fishing by boat is permitted at Stillwater and Canopus Lakes. Fishing at both lakes and four ponds is excellent in all seasons for anglers seeking bass, pickerel, perch or brook and rainbow trout.
The scenic campground, formed along the park’s natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. The campground’s nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.
The Knickerbocker Ice Skating Arena is located at 103rd Street & 8th Avenue, Troy NY 12180, Rensselaer County in the Hudson Valley. The Knickerbacker Ice Arena was built in 1990. The actual park has been around since the late 1920s for uses such as baseball, soccer, track, and more. Since its construction, the arena has been home to many junior and pro level hockey clubs.
Ice Activities and Attractions Outdoor Ice Rink Food
Ice Skating Adult Skating Lunchtime Skating Public skating Skating Lessons
Ice Hockey Ice Hockey - Adult Ice Hockey - Youth Pickup Hockey Session Puck Youth Hockey Clubs
The Bear Mountain Ice Rink, offering Figure Skating and a Hockey Club, is located in Bear Mountain State Park. The ice rink is outdoors and uncovered, so be sure to dress appropriately, in warm clothes.
Ice Activities and Attractions Birthday Parties Ice Rental Skate Rentals
Ice Skating Figure Skating in the center of the rink Public Skating
Ice Hockey Hockey Club
Press blue button for session hours and fees, holiday hours, skate rentals, private rental, birthday parties, hockey club, figure skating and more about ice skating at the Bear Mountain Ice Rink. Call (845) 786-2701 ext. 266 for more about ice skating at the Bear Mountain Ice Rink.
Hessian Lake at Bear Mountain Park offers activities such as: fishing, paddle boat and rowboat rentals, and picnicking at Hessian Lake. For more activities and attractions go to Bear Mountain State Park.
Bear Mountain State Park is situated in rugged mountains rising from the west bank of the Hudson River. The park features a large play field, shaded picnic groves, a dock on the Hudson for mooring small craft, lake and river fishing access, a swimming pool, a zoo and nature, hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails, and ski-jumps. An outdoor rink is open to ice skaters from late October through mid-March. The Perkins Memorial Tower atop Bear Mountain affords spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park.
Things To Do Boat Rentals Fishing Hiking around the lake Nature Trail Picnic Tables Playground Playing Field(s) Pool
Sport-O-Rama Ice Rinks Ice Skating Rink is located at 20 College Road, Monsey NY 10952, Rockland County in the Hudson Valley. Sport-O-Rama Ice Skating Rink was founded in 1974 and is an indoor rink that is open year-round.
Ice skating sessions for the public are one of the main attractions at Sport-O-Rama Ice Rinks. Ice Skating provides a fun activity for you and your family; and skating is a great exercise.
Sport-O-Rama offers both Adult and Youth Ice Hockey programs and leagues for players of all levels.
Bear Mountain State Park is located on the west side of the Hudson River in Orange County and Rockland County, New York. The 5,067-acre (20.51 km2) Bear Mountain State Park, flagship of the Palisades Interstate Park System, is renowned for its natural beauty and rugged mountains and is just 45 miles north of New York City, in the historic and beautiful Hudson River Valley.
Lakes, ponds, forest, hills, and mountains abound at Bear Mountain. Bear Mountain is heavily forested, offering the natural beauty of sights such as Perkins Memorial Point,
Of interest to hikers, the historic Appalachian Trail is carried across the Bear Mountain Bridge and the Popolopen Suspension Bridge. Although campgrounds and lodging are available, Bear Mountain Park is primarily a day-use park offering magnificent scenery, photo opportunities, and great hiking for all levels of hikers. The historic Bear Mountain Inn, situated in Bear Mountain Park, overlooks Hessian Lake and provides food and overnight accommodations. Food is also available at several vendors around Hessian Lake and in other areas of the park.
Bear Mountain Park attractions and activities include: a large playing field, picnic groves, rowboat docks on Hessian Lake, swimming pool and bathhouse, nature trails including key segments of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Long Path, basketball court, Trailside Museums and Zoo, Iona Island Estuarine Reserve and Bird Refuge, Perkins Tower, and the Merry-Go-Round. Many winter activities are available at Bear Mountain Park, including an outdoor rink that is open for ice-skating from late October through mid-March.
Perkins Memorial Tower sits 1,305 feet above the Hudson River, atop Bear Mountain. Perkins Point and Perkins Memorial Tower afford spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park. Driving, biking, or hiking along Perkins Memorial Drive offers breathtaking views from many vantage points leading to Perkins Memorial Tower perched at the top of the mountain. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of many picnic spots that are available along Perkins Memorial Drive.
Click to enlarge photo of sign - Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery.
Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery Walk the Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery where you will "stand on the site of Fort Clinton, which was built along with Fort Montgomery to prevent British ships from sailing up the Hudson River during the Revolutionary War. On October 6, 1777, the British captured both forts and destroyed them shortly thereafter.
"This trail leads down to the Popolopen Creek and across the Popolopen Suspension Footbridge to Fort Montgomery State Historic Site. Fort Montgomery is an archeological site and a historic ruin. Interpretive signs and an audio tour are available to help understand the history of the fort and the battle."
More fun and educational attractions for kids include the Trailside Museum and Zoo, and the Merry-Go-Round featuring 42 hand carved seats of native animals. After a ride on the merry-go-round, visit the zoo and see how many native animals you can recognize. (Perhaps your children can help name the animals.) .
Great kids Attraction - Merry-Go-Round The Merry-Go-Round at Bear Mountain features hand painted scenes of the park and 42 hand carved seats of native animals including: black bear, wild turkey, deer, raccoon, skunk, Canada goose, fox, swan, bobcat, rabbit and more.
Great kids Attraction - Trailside Museum and Zoo There are four museums at Trailside. The Reptile and Amphibian House is home to a variety of turtles, snakes, frogs, toads, salamanders and skinks as well as many species of fish. The Nature Study Museum houses specimens originally created by the Museum of Natural History to educate people about animal identification. Visitors can learn about geologic formations of the Hudson Highlands in the Geology Museum and local Native American and early settler culture in the History Museum.
Things To Do Biking Trails in Hudson Valley Boat Rentals Dockage Fishing (lake and river fishing) Food at park and at Bear Mountain Inn Hiking Trails / Walking Merry-Go-Round Pavilion Nature Trail Perkins Memorial Drive & Tower Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool (very large pool) Swimming Trailside Museums Zoo and Nature Park
Rockland Lake State Park is located at 299 Rockland Lake Road, Valley Cottage NY 10989, Rockland County. The lake is located on a ridge of Hook Mountain above the west bank of the Hudson River.
The park offers two Olympic-sized swimming pools and two kiddies pools for swimming on the hot days of summer. After a swim, enjoy a picnic at the picnic tables and grills. The park also offers a car-top boat launch and boat rentals, hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley, six tennis courts and two golf courses. Anglers can fish Rockland Lake for bass, perch and norlunge; walkers and joggers can use the fitness trail around the lake. Winter visitors enjoy designated cross-country ski trails and sledding slopes.
Things To Do Biking Boat Launch Sites Boat Rentals Fishing Food Golf Hiking Trails / Walking Nature Trail Picnic Tables Playground Swimming (2 Olympic sized pools and kiddies pool) Tennis
Palisades Center Mall is located at 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY 10994, Rockland County in the lower-Hudson Valley. Palisades Center offers four floors of shopping with over 400 stores, restaurants, and entertainment for children and adults.
Great Shopping Palisades Center Mall offers the best shopping in Rockland County with over 200 specialty stores, including bookstores, electronics, jewelry, shoes, maternity, sports equipment, toys & hobbies, clothing for women, men, and children, and stores for the home including Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, Bed, Bath & Beyond.
Anchor stores include Burlington Coat Factory, JC Penney, Macy's, Lord & Taylor, Target, and Home Depot, and brand stores such as Abercrombie & Fitch, Abercrombie Kids, Gap, and more.
Palisades Centers offers many attractions for kids. Children's activities and attractions include ice skating, a carousel, 68 foot tall Ferris Wheel, bowling alley, and more fun things for kids at the mall.
Exercise at Palisades Mall Walking has become America's most popular form of exercise because it is safe, simple and inexpensive. Join your friends and neighbors at Palisades Center for healthful walking at your own pace in climate-controlled comfort.
Press blue button for a directory of stores, restaurants, and more information about the Palisades Center Mall and Shopping Plaza.
The Palisades Center Ice Rink is located at 4900 Palisades Center, West Nyack, NY 10994 on the 4th floor, of the Palisades Center Mall, directly above Macy's. We offer year-round ice activities including, Public Skating, Learn to Skate programs, Learn to Play Hockey programs, Open Hockey, Stick Time, Summer Camps and Clinics to name a few.
Rocking Horse Ranch Resort is conveniently located in the Mid-Hudson Valley region in Ulster County, just 90 minutes North of New York City. Rocking Horse's address is 600 Route 44/55, Highland, NY 12528. If using a GPS to locate us, use 13 Pancake Hollow Rd., Highland, NY 12528.
Rocking Horse Ranch is a family resort that is geared toward kids. It is a year-round getaway for active families who want the comfort of a year-round resort, and the peace of mind that comes with an affordable, all-inclusive price. Press blue button for year-round information about Rocking Horse Ranch resort.
Reviews
"A taste of the West with a New York Flavor... One of the largest and best equipped Dude Ranches east of the West ... A full scale year round resort. Complete with everything from skiing and sleigh rides in Winter to water skiing and tennis in the Summer weather. And oh, those horses." by Daily News
Outdoor Winter Activities Bonfires with hot chocolate & marshmallows Horse drawn Sleigh Rides Ski Area Snow Tube Run w/Lift Ice Skating
Ski Area Features . . . 100% snow making and grooming Rental equipment Ski lessons
Mohonk Golf Course, at Mohonk Mountain House Resort, is located at 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY 12561. Mohonk offers golf in its purest form. This 107–year-old historic landmark golf course was fashioned with classic late-19th-century features and a Scottish architectural influence. Each hole is a delight in itself, featuring four different height cuts of grass that add definition and challenge. Framed by spectacular views of surrounding valleys, our course reflects the ambience of Mohonk.
Envision a course fashioned after St. Andrews, set against a majestic 2,200-acre backdrop. An enchanting Victorian castle towering seven stories above the pristine “lake in the sky”, welcomes you after a day on the course. Escape to our distinctive old-world New York State golf course, and you’ll see why we have received distinctive praise. Day visitors are also welcome. Press blue button for rates, photos, and more information about Mohonk.
Cantine Veterans Sports Complex, a 127-acre sports and recreation complex, is located at the Washington Avenue Extension, Saugerties, NY 12477 in Ulster County.
in Biking Bowling Parks Playgrounds Recreation 127 acre Sports Complex featuring 11 baseball / softball fields, 4 soccer fields, a fully enclosed refrigerated ice arena, 3 playgrounds, 4 pavilions, trails, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, indoor and outdoor shuffle board courts and a senior citizens' multi-purpose recreation center. Many other year-round recreational services. Roadways and parking.
Things To Do Ball fields (11) Bandstand (enclosed) Basketball courts (3) Conference center Grandstands (2 covered) Hiking Trails (views of the Catskills and Berkshires Horseshoe pits (8) Pavilions (4 with service Kitchenettes) Picnic areas and barbeque equipment Playgrounds, (3) including a Small World Playground Senior Citizen’s multi-purpose recreation center Shuffleboard courts (indoor and outdoor) Soccer fields (4 regulation size) Tennis courts (4 lighted)
Ice Skating Rinks
Ice Skating, Figure and Free Style Skating
Hudson River Valley
Indoor ice skating and outdoor ice skating in the Hudson Valley. Visit ice skating rinks in Albany, Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rensselaer, Rockland, Ulster, and Westchester County.
Hudson Valley outdoor ice skating is available in many local parks. Many town parks offer invigorating outdoor ice skating for Figure Skating, Public Ice Skating sessions, and Adult and Youth Hockey. Ice Skating outdoors can be fantastic, and many parks offer refreshments and indoor areas where you can warm up with a cup of hot chocolate. Or, bring your own thermos of hot drinks.
Also, enjoy year round ice skating and ice hockey at the indoor rinks available throughout the Hudson Valley. There are many ice skating rinks through the Hudson Valley offering
ice skating, ice skating lessons, figure skating, figure skating lessons, free style skating, public sessions, and skating camps. For all the hockey players both young and adult, most indoor ice skating rinks also offer ice hockey sessions, youth hockey camp, hockey lessons for adults, youth hockey lessons, and lessons for adult beginners.
Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks
Outdoor ice skating offers a fun and wonderful way to enjoy a brisk cold winter day. Be sure your ice skating experience is safe by following the following guidelines:
Important Ice Skating Safety Guidelines
Do not skate or walk on ice unless a sign is posted by your town Parks and Recreation facilities designating the ice as a safe-skating area.
Never ice skate or walk on any frozen water or water surface unless official signs are posted as to the safety of these areas.
Children should never be left unattended near any ice or frozen water.
If you hear cracking while on ice, lie down immediately and try to distribute your weight.
If you witness someone falling through ice, never attempt to make a rescue by yourself. Call 911 and notify the proper authorities.
Both indoor and outdoor Ice Skating rinks offer many activities and great exercise. Some ice activities include public skating, freestyle skating, ice hockey, open hockey, stick time, and birthday parties on the ice. If you're looking for a fun birthday party, take the children to an ice skating rink. Both young children and older kids enjoy an ice skating party.
History of Ice Skating in New York City Parks
Ice Skating in the Parks began before specially designed ice skating rinks were built in the 20th century, at a time when skaters used ponds and lakes in parks for recreation.
The Lake in Central Park was the most notable case of this use. Before Central Park was completed in the 1870s, this section was opened to ice skaters and quickly became a top attraction. In order to ensure proper skating conditions, the Lake was drained to a level that eased the freezing of ice each year. The Lake, then and now, is connected to the City's water system.
Ice Skating beyond Central Park
Meanwhile, other bodies of water were used for ice skating throughout the park system. In Brooklyn, skating sites existed at McCarren Park, Prospect Park, Sunset Park, and Commodore Barry Park. In fact, ice skating was so popular in the 19th century that a tradition of "raising the red ball" on Brooklyn streetcars was created to indicate favorable skating conditions at Prospect Park.
Building a Manmade Rink in Queens
The first facility devoted to ice skating was the New York City Building, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, originally constructed for the 1939-40 World's Fair. The rink was used for ice shows during the Fair, and afterward was converted to an ice and roller skating rink that operated from 1941 to 1946.
Although the New York City Building was temporarily used as a site for the fledgling United Nations, October 1946 to 1950, the Building once again became an ice and roller skating rink in 1952. The New York City Building became a major World's Fair site again during the 1964-65 event when Olympic figure skating champion Dick Button organized "Ice-Travaganza" performances within the facility. After the Fair ended, the Flushing Meadows-Corona Park rink became the first year-round skating facility in the park system.
The Ice Skating Rink in Central Park
In 1949, philanthropist Kate Wollman donated funds for a new kind of "artificial rink" to be built in Central Park. Ms. Wollman gave $600,000 toward the construction of Wollman Rink as a memorial to her parents, Mr. J. Wollman and Mrs. Bettie Wollman, and her four brothers.
The Wollman Rink opened in 1950 and is located in the southern part of Central Park. Its creation ushered in a new era of ice skating unbound by fickle weather conditions. As the Parks Department publicity materials boasted, the new rink guaranteed access to safe skating for New Yorkers "who have been deprived of the pleasure of regular, uninterrupted outdoor ice skating throughout the winter half year because of vagaries of our climate."
With midtown Manhattan as its dramatic backdrop, Wollman Rink was a success from the day it opened; over 300,000 skaters glided across the ice in its first year of operation. The facility features three-quarters of an acre (28,000 square feet) of ice and 16 miles of 1 1/4 " wrought iron pipe.
Wollman Funds Additional Rinks
Another rink funded by Kate Wollman, Lasker Rink and Pool on Central Park's northern end, serves as a pool in the summer months. Wollman also contributed major financial help towards a similar outdoor ice skating rink in Brooklyn's Prospect Park. This Rink was constructed in 1961 on the site formerly known as Music Island, where concerts were performed in the 19th century.
Ice Skating Continues to Grow
Once ice skating proved useful in attracting people into the parks in the winter months, other rinks opened throughout City boroughs:
The Abe Stark Rink, in Coney Island, was opened in 1970.
The War Memorial Rink in Clove Lakes Park, an outdoor rink, also opened in 1970.
Recently, a concession at Bryant Park has offered ice skating free of charge, providing New Yorkers with an economical way to explore this enjoyable winter pastime.
The American Museum of Natural History opened a state-of-the-art skating rink, located within Theodore Roosevelt Park, made from a recyclable synthetic surface.