Wanna throwback to the 80s? Well as of Friday, April 15, Rockefeller Center’s famous ice rink has turned into an 80s-themed skating rink that will be there all summer long. This is the first time since 1940 that this has happened, when the plaza briefly became a roller rink for the warmer seasons.
The new installation is due to Liberty Ross, the daughter of Ian “Flipper” Ross, who opened the Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace in Los Angeles in 1979. A place where “punk rockers and disco queens could come together,” New York City is getting some nostalgic magic for six warm months.
The family-owned skate spot was only open for three years, but known for its celebrity skaters (such as Elton John, Prince, and Cher) and awesome nightlife (sometimes called “Studio 54 on wheels”). Now it will be remade so New Yorkers can be introduced to “the venue and the joy of roller skating to a new generation.”
The actual skating rink will be a tad smaller than the ice rink, leaving more room for viewers to watch the skaters and hang out and grab a snack. This is all thanks to new renovations by Tishman Speyer, aiming to restore the plaza to its original architectural with:
- The Rink Level serving as a grand entrance from the Plaza and Channel Gardens, allowing circulation through the entire Center on both street and Rink Level.
- Glass doors encircling The Rink, restoring the ability to easily walk in and out and view the skaters in the Plaza.
- The sunken plaza transforming into a gathering space with tables, chairs, and green spaces that allow the public to flow into Rockefeller Center’s shops and restaurants.
The roller rink will be officially open from April 15 to October 31. Hours will be Monday-Wednesday: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thursday-Friday: 10 a.m.-12 a.m.; Saturday: 8 a.m.-12 a.m.; and Sunday: 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
Tickets can be reserved on their website, beginning at $20 for adults, plus $10 for skate rentals.
There will also be themed nights and special performances, plus an on-site store with skating merch. You can check out the DJ lineup on their Instagram page, featuring Will.i.am, Usher, and Big Bob.
