As of Dec. 31, the State Office of General Services has reopened the Empire State Plaza skating rink.
Due to the State’s financial crises, the rink was shuttered for the 07-08 season and has been closed since. The re-opening was made possible by a $100,000 contribution from the Olympic Regional Development Authority (the entity which runs Whiteface and Gore ski resorts) in partnership with the Lake Placid Winter Sports Committee.
“I am pleased that after being closed for years, this ice rink is once again open to the public,” said Governor Cuomo. “The Empire State Plaza is a wonderful asset that deserves to be enjoyed all year round.”
Bordered by the Egg and the Plaza towers, and in view of the Capitol, the Plaza rink has been and continues to be a destination for a romantic skate or family fun. The outdoor rink will be open seven days a week for afternoon and evening skate sessions from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., but closed from 3 – 4 p.m. for maintenance. Skating is free and open to the public, but skate rental is $4 for adults, and $3 for children under 12.
New this year is a full service snack bar which will be serving hot dogs, sandwiches, chips, cookies, hot chocolate and more during lunch. Among the special events offered this year at the rink was an exhibition game by the RPI men’s hockey team on Jan. 16. An upcoming event is a free learn-to-skate clinic on Jan. 16.
Also on site at the rink is a skater’s lounge with lockers to hold personal items and warming fire pits.
The rink was first opened Dec. 17, 1976. The three day holiday festival drew over 60,000 people to witness fireworks, the lighting of the tree and the dedication of the rink.
The rink will stay open until early March. If you have any questions about the rink you can call Plaza Operations at (518) 474-8860.
