There’s no denying it: Rockefeller Center is the most iconic Christmas destination in the US. Every year since 1933, a gigantic Christmas tree is erected on Rockefeller Plaza and lit up in a grand ceremony. But the Rockefeller Center holiday magic isn’t just about the tree, its 900-pound Swarovski topping star, and its tens of thousands of LED lights. It’s also about the temporary ice rink. Since its creation in 1936, skating on the Rockefeller rink has become a holiday tradition that anyone traveling to Midtown Manhattan would be remiss to pass on – even the most blasé New Yorkers. And for those in the know, there’s a little something extra you can experience at Rockefeller Center: The oh-so-cozy Après Skate Chalets.
Après Skate Chalets at Rockefeller Center
Sitting above the ice rink, the eight Après Skate Chalets are small wooden bungalows each uniquely decked out in garlands, ornaments, wreaths, lanterns, and more. From there, you get the best views of the glittering tree and clumsy skaters. Balsam Hill, providers of high-end artificial Christmas trees and decorations, is responsible for the impeccable decor and it’s so good that you soon forget that you’re in New York City and not in the Austrian Alps.
The chalets tend to open in early November, about two weeks after the opening of the ice rink, and around one month before the tree’s lights are on. So, if you want to have a quintessential Rockefeller experience, it’s good that you’ve waited until now to book a chalet. But don’t wait too long; by early January, it’s all done and dusted.
To access the Après Skate Chalets, revelers need to book a 40-minute slot online. The price of renting a chalet ranges from $90 to $470 per slot, depending on the day and time you wish to reserve. While you can take up to five guests along with you to share the festive fun, note that food and beverages are not included in the price of the ticket. That said, there’s a menu with a host of items on offer, such as hot dogs, hot pretzel bites, S’mores dip, cocktails, and more. Just remember that there’s a $25 food-and-beverage minimum spending per person.
Premium Après Skate Chalets at Rockefeller Center
For those who want to take things up a notch, there is the Premium Après Skate Chalets experience. The offer includes all the good stuff you get in the price of a regular ticket, but with four complimentary Top of the Rock tickets valid at any time on the day of the chalet reservation.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
It’s important to note that purchasing a ticket to cozy-up in one the Après Skate Chalets does not give you access to the rink. You must buy a separate ticket to go skating on this world-famous ice.
General skating costs between $22 and $124 for a 60-minute session. And that does not include skate rentals.
The VIP skate experience also offers a 60-minute skate session, but you’re also getting access to the heated VIP lounge, warm beverages, and complimentary skate rental.
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FAQs
Q: How much does it cost to rent one of the Après Skate Chalets at the Rockefeller Center?
A: Renting an Après Skate Chalet at the Rockefeller Center costs between $90 and $470. Rates change depending on the time of day.
Q: Who decorates the Après Skate Chalets at the Rockefeller Center?
A: Balsam Hill, the company that specializes in high-end artificial Christmas trees and decorations, decorates the Après Skate Chalets at the Rockefeller Center every year.
Q: Can you rent one of the Après Skate Chalets at the Rockefeller Center on December 25?
A: Yes, the chalets are available for rent in 40-minute slots from 10:10 AM to 11:50 PM on Christmas day.
