Looking for places to go and things to do in this cold weather in New York City? If you like ice skating, or you have thought of learning how to ice skate, Winter Village at Bryant Park might be the right place to go!

Bryant Park is located in the middle of a dining and shopping area in the heart of Midtown, between 40th and 42nd Streets & Fifth and Sixth Avenues. Every winter, the park opens its Bank of America Winter Village to the public for various activities. The 170′ x 100′ rink , which is the centerpiece of the winter village features free admission ice skating, in addition to high quality rental skates, skating shows, special events and activities. Right next to the rink you will find a restaurant named “Celsius”, where you can get a spectacular view of the park while enjoying the meal.

The ice skating rink is opened daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm between November 1, 2013 and March 2, 2014. Inside the Skating Pavilion, lockers are free of charge, with locks available for purchase at the price of $9. Bag check is also available for a fee. It is suggested that you bring your own skates because renting a pair of ice skates costs $15 there.

If you have never skated before but want to learn, Individual and group skate lessons can be arranged for all ages and levels. The staff members inside the rink are usually very helpful so even if you fall on the ice, they will quickly aid you to make sure you’re okay.

Ice skating is definitely one of my favorite winter activities; I highly recommend it to you, especially when it is at little or no cost at all!