Bryant Park Winter Village

As the crisp New York air settles in and the holiday spirit begins to twinkle across the city, there’s one destination that consistently captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike: the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. More than just a park, this seasonal transformation turns a beloved Midtown green space into a magical winter wonderland, offering a delightful escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of city life. From exhilarating ice skating under the skyscrapers to a charming holiday market brimming with unique finds and delectable treats, the Winter Village is an essential part of the New York winter experience.

This annual festive spectacular brings together the joy of the holidays with classic winter activities, creating an atmosphere that’s both vibrant and cozy. It’s a place where laughter echoes from the ice rink, the aroma of international street food fills the air, and the warmth of community shines through the chilly weather. Whether you're looking for a fun outing with family, a romantic date, or simply a place to soak in the holiday cheer, Bryant Park Winter Village promises an unforgettable experience right in the heart of our incredible city.

Accessibility to Bryant Park is one of its greatest strengths. The park is a major transportation hub, meaning you have a plethora of options to get there:

• Subway: The B, D, F, and M trains all stop directly at the 42nd Street/Bryant Park station. The 7 train also serves the 5th Avenue-Bryant Park station. These lines connect you seamlessly to various parts of Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn. For those coming from further afield, transfer at major hubs like Times Square-42nd Street (1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, S trains) or Grand Central Terminal (4, 5, 6, 7, S trains), both just a short walk away.
• Bus: Numerous MTA bus lines serve the area, with stops conveniently located on 42nd Street, 6th Avenue, and 5th Avenue. This provides an excellent option for those preferring bus travel or coming from areas not directly served by the subway.
• Commuter Rail: Both Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal are within walking distance, making it incredibly convenient for those arriving via Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), Metro-North Railroad, or NJ Transit.
• Walking: Given its central location, Bryant Park is easily reachable on foot from many popular Midtown destinations, including Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and the Empire State Building.

The ease of access ensures that the Bryant Park Winter Village is a convenient and stress-free destination for New Yorkers from all neighborhoods.

• Free Admission Ice Skating: Uniquely, the Bank of America Winter Village offers New York City's only free-admission ice skating rink. While skate rental is available for a fee, bringing your own skates means you can enjoy this classic winter activity without an admission cost. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak times.
• Skate Rentals and Aids: For those without their own skates, rentals are readily available. Skating aids, such as penguin-shaped stabilizers, are also available for rent, perfect for beginners and younger skaters.
• Bag Check/Lockers: Secure bag check and locker facilities are provided for skaters and shoppers, allowing you to enjoy the village without the burden of carrying your belongings.
• Public Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained public restrooms are available, providing a comfortable and convenient facility during your visit.
• The Lodge Bar + Food Hall: This indoor/outdoor space offers a cozy respite with a variety of food vendors and bars. It's an ideal spot to warm up with a festive drink, grab a bite, and watch the skaters.
• Curling Café + Bar: Experience the fun of curling on miniature lanes while enjoying food and beverages in a dedicated setting.
• Cozy Igloos: For a more private and intimate experience, rent one of the charming igloos, complete with comfortable seating and food/drink service.
• Holiday Shops: A sprawling market features over 180 artisanal vendors from around the world, offering unique gifts, handcrafted goods, and delicious snacks.
• Food Vendors: Beyond The Lodge, numerous individual food stalls throughout the village offer a diverse range of culinary delights, from gourmet sandwiches to sweet treats and international flavors.
• Live Entertainment: Throughout the season, the Winter Village often hosts live music, performances, and other special events.

• NYC's Only Free-Admission Ice Skating Rink: This is a major draw. In a city where activities can quickly add up, the opportunity to skate for free (if you bring your own skates) is a fantastic benefit. It democratizes access to a classic winter pastime, making it accessible to everyone.
• Bumper Cars on Ice: A unique and incredibly fun attraction, the bumper cars on ice offer a playful and exhilarating twist to traditional ice skating. It's a guaranteed hit for families and friends looking for a laugh.
• Vibrant Holiday Shops: The European-inspired open-air market is a treasure trove of unique gifts, artisan crafts, and locally made products. It’s perfect for holiday shopping, supporting small businesses, and finding one-of-a-kind items you won't see in typical retail stores.
• Diverse Culinary Offerings: The sheer variety of food and drink options is a major highlight. From savory international dishes to sweet treats, hot chocolate, and festive cocktails at The Lodge, there’s something to satisfy every craving. It’s a foodie's paradise within a winter wonderland.
• Picturesque Atmosphere: The combination of the iconic New York Public Library, surrounding skyscrapers, and the festive decorations creates an incredibly picturesque and festive ambiance. It’s a perfect spot for memorable photos and truly soaking in the New York holiday spirit.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With activities like ice skating aids, bumper cars, and a wide array of food, the Winter Village is designed to cater to all ages, making it an ideal destination for family outings.
• Community Hub: Beyond its attractions, the Winter Village serves as a fantastic gathering place, bringing New Yorkers together in a joyful and festive setting. It's a place to meet friends, celebrate the season, and simply enjoy being part of the vibrant city.

• Bank of America Preferred Access: Bank of America cardholders often receive special perks, such as early booking access for ice skating reservations or exclusive discounts on skate rentals. Check the Bryant Park website and Bank of America's promotions for current offers.
• Early Bird Skating: Sometimes, specific off-peak hours might offer slightly reduced skate rental prices or special access.
• Vendor Specials: Individual holiday shops and food vendors within the market may offer their own daily or weekly specials. It’s worth exploring the stalls to find unique deals on gifts or treats.
• Event-Specific Promotions: Keep an eye on the Bryant Park events calendar for special programming, which might include free performances, workshops, or themed nights that could come with unique offers.

Always check the official Bryant Park website (bryantpark.org) for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, special offers, and event schedules, as these can vary seasonally and based on demand. Booking ice skating and bumper car sessions in advance online is highly recommended to guarantee your spot and potentially secure better rates.

• Address: 42nd Street and, 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018, USA
• Phone: (212) 768-4242 (This is the general number for Bryant Park Corporation)
• Mobile Phone: +1 212-768-4242
• Website: For specific details about the Winter Village, including hours of operation for the rink and shops, reservation links, and vendor lists, it is best to visit the official Bryant Park website, bryantpark.org.

Secondly, the Winter Village offers a convenient escape without leaving Manhattan. Instead of traveling out of the city for a holiday experience, New Yorkers can enjoy a festive, community-oriented atmosphere right in their backyard, easily reachable by an extensive public transportation network. This makes it perfect for an impromptu evening skate after work, a weekend family outing, or a casual catch-up with friends.

Moreover, the holiday shops provide an excellent opportunity to support local and independent artisans, finding unique gifts that reflect New York's diverse creative spirit. This connection to local businesses resonates strongly with New Yorkers who value community and craftsmanship. The wide array of food vendors also caters to diverse tastes, allowing locals to explore new culinary delights or enjoy their favorite comfort foods in a festive setting.

The positive reviews from local customers highlight the joy of the bumper cars on ice and the overall "awesome experience," emphasizing its appeal for fun outings with friends and family, and an ideal spot to entertain visiting loved ones. It’s a place where you can create lasting memories, whether it's a first-time ice skating adventure or a festive annual tradition. In essence, the Bryant Park Winter Village is a beloved local gem that encapsulates the spirit of winter in New York City, offering accessible fun, unique shopping, and a vibrant community atmosphere right at your doorstep.

Bryant Park Winter Village

42nd Street and, 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018, USA