Escape the winter chill with a day of outdoor adventure and historic exploration in the heart of New York City. Glide across the ice at Wollman Rink, surrounded by the enchanting scenery of Central Park, before stepping inside the magnificent St. Patrick’s Cathedral to embark on a self-guided audio tour. This unique combination offers a memorable experience that blends recreation and cultural discovery, perfect for those seeking to make the most of their time in the city.
Key Points
- Opportunity to experience winter recreation and architectural history in one efficient activity, with ice skating at Wollman Rink and a self-guided audio tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
- General admission tickets are $45.99 per person, with skate rentals available at an additional cost, and tickets are non-refundable.
- Activity has received an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 7 reviews, with positive feedback on the skating experience and audio tour, but some issues reported with ticket purchasing.
- Convenient meeting and pickup location at Wollman Rink, with access to public transportation and the inclusion of admission to the rink.
- Activity may not be suitable for all travelers, as the ice skating portion is not wheelchair accessible and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
👉 Check out our guide to the 3 Best Craft Beer Tours And Tastings In New York City
Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Activity
- Pricing and Tickets
- Reviews and Ratings
- Meeting and Pickup Information
- Health and Accessibility Considerations
- What to Expect at the Ice Skating Rink
- Highlights of the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Audio Tour
- Tips for an Enjoyable Experience
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Ice Skates?
- Is There a Locker Room to Store Belongings?
- Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
- How Long Is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Audio Tour?
- Can I Take Photos Inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral?
- The Sum Up
- Our Top Picks in New York City
- More Tours in New York City
- More Tour Reviews in New York City
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in New York City we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Activity
The activity offers visitors the chance to ice skate at the iconic Wollman Rink in Central Park, followed by a self-guided audio tour of the renowned St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Skating at Wollman Rink is a classic New York experience, providing 1-2 hours of outdoor fun.
After working up an appetite, guests can explore St. Patrick’s Cathedral at their own pace using the official audio tour.
This combination of winter recreation and architectural history creates an enriching experience for travelers and locals alike.
The activity’s duration is typically 1-2 hours, making it an efficient way to pack in multiple sights.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in New York City.
Pricing and Tickets
General Admission Tickets for the Ice Skating and St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour cost from $45.99 per person. Skate rentals aren’t included and must be paid for separately.
The tickets are non-refundable, and there are no refunds for cancellations. Visitors should be aware of this policy before purchasing their tickets.
While the overall experience has received positive reviews, some customers have reported issues with ticket purchasing through Viator.
The activity offers a unique opportunity to enjoy ice skating in Central Park and explore the renowned St. Patrick’s Cathedral, making it a popular choice for visitors to New York City.
Reviews and Ratings
According to the information provided, the Ice Skating and St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour has received a total of 7 reviews, with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5. The reviews highlight positive experiences with the skating activity and the audio tour of the cathedral. However, some customers have reported issues with ticket purchasing through Viator.
| Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |
|---|---|
| Enjoyable skating experience | Issues with ticket purchasing |
| Informative audio tour | – |
| Overall positive rating | – |
The reviews suggest that the tour offers a well-rounded experience, although there may be some logistical challenges to consider when booking.
Meeting and Pickup Information
The departure point for the Ice Skating and St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour is the Wollman Rink, located at 830 5th Ave, New York City, NY 10065-7001.
This convenient location is near public transportation, making it easily accessible for visitors.
The tour includes admission to the Wollman Rink, where guests can enjoy ice skating for 1-2 hours.
After the skating experience, participants can embark on the audio tour of the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral, allowing them to explore the historical and architectural highlights of this renowned landmark at their own pace.
Health and Accessibility Considerations
This activity may not be suitable for all travelers, as the Ice Skating and St. Patricks Cathedral Tour involves physical exertion and potential accessibility challenges.
Specifically:
- The ice skating portion isn’t wheelchair accessible.
- Travelers with back problems, pregnancy, heart issues, or other serious medical conditions aren’t recommended to participate.
- A moderate level of physical fitness is required to navigate the ice skating rink and fully enjoy the experience.
- Visitors should carefully consider their own health and mobility before booking this activity.
What to Expect at the Ice Skating Rink
Visitors can expect a lively and invigorating ice skating experience at the Wollman Rink in Central Park. The rink offers a picturesque setting, surrounded by the iconic New York City skyline. Skaters can glide across the well-maintained ice, taking in the serene atmosphere. To enhance the experience, the rink features a vibrant music playlist that sets the mood. After skating, guests can warm up with a hot beverage at the on-site café. The following table outlines what to expect during your ice skating adventure:
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Skating | Spacious, well-maintained ice rink |
| Music | Lively, upbeat playlist |
| Scenery | Stunning Central Park backdrop |
| Amenities | On-site café for refreshments |
| Duration | 1-2 hours recommended |
Highlights of the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Audio Tour
An audio tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral guides visitors through the magnificent Gothic-style church.
The tour highlights include:
-
The cathedral’s rich history, dating back to 1879 when construction began.
-
The stunning stained glass windows, which depict scenes from the Bible and the life of St. Patrick.
-
The awe-inspiring interior, featuring high vaulted ceilings, intricate stone carvings, and impressive altars.
-
The cathedral’s role as a spiritual and cultural hub, hosting numerous events and serving as a popular tourist attraction.
The audio tour provides an engaging and informative way to explore this iconic New York City landmark.
Tips for an Enjoyable Experience
To ensure an enjoyable experience, visitors should arrive early at the Wollman Rink to secure their preferred skating time slot.
It’s also a good idea to dress warmly, as the rink can get chilly. Skate rentals are available on-site, but it’s best to bring your own if possible to avoid additional costs.
After skating, the St. Patrick’s Cathedral audio tour is a great way to learn about the historic landmark.
Visitors should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility issues may want to explore the cathedral on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Ice Skates?
Yes, visitors can bring their own ice skates to use at the Wollman Rink in Central Park. However, skate rentals are also available separately for those who need them.
Is There a Locker Room to Store Belongings?
The activity details don’t mention a dedicated locker room, but skaters can likely store belongings securely at the rink. It’s recommended to bring only essentials and to avoid bringing valuables that could get lost or stolen.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
There are no discounts mentioned for children or seniors on the general admission ticket. The activity information only lists the standard adult admission price, which is from $45.99 per person. Skate rentals have a separate additional cost.
How Long Is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Audio Tour?
The St. Patrick’s Cathedral audio tour lasts approximately 1-2 hours. It provides a detailed, self-guided exploration of the cathedral’s history, architecture, and significance within the Catholic faith and New York City community.
Can I Take Photos Inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, but flash photography is prohibited. However, it’s always a good idea to be respectful and avoid disrupting services or other visitors during your visit.
Ice Skating at Central Park Plus St Patricks Cathedral Tour
“The ice skating was fun, after I had to buy NEW tickets. I purchased through Viator to save time and it did the opposite. The link did not work for…”
The Sum Up
This winter activity in New York City offers a unique combination of outdoor ice skating and a self-guided cathedral tour. At just $45.99 per person, it’s an affordable way to experience the magic of Central Park and the architectural beauty of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this experience is sure to create lasting memories.
