A New York City hotel has revealed a sky-high skaing rink that lets guests and visitors experience a frozen land of wonder above the iconic city’s stunning skyline.

A woman skating above NYC at William Vale Rink
The Vale Rink is open now © The William Vale

Announced recently by The William Vale in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighbourhood, the skating rink is located on the 23rd floor of the building. Open to the public, guests can catch breath-taking views between laps around the rink, and have the option to take a break to warm up in a tent featuring lounge chairs, hot chocolate and treats. The rink has been created using synthetic ice technology for greater gliding and a similar feel to ice without the cold and wetness. More environmentally-friendly, it doesn’t require any power, water or maintenance, and can be used in any weather, hot or cold.

A group of friends laugh and relax at William Vale ice rink
Visitors can warm up in a tent between laps of the rink © The William Vale

“We’re dedicated to staying well connected to the community and finding experiences that can tailor to visitors and locals alike. We always wanted to introduce a skating rink to the property and thought the rooftop would make the perfect destination. It allows us to take advantage of our unique location and views of the Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan skyline during the winter months,” Nick Angel, general manager of Vale Rink told Lonely Planet.

Hot Chocolate.jpg
Treats include hot chocolate and hot toddies © The William Vale

The hotel also has a host of wellness programmes and events set up to run throughout January, including meditation workshops, contemporary dance classes and an immersive scent and sound bath experience. 

The skating rink has proved a hit with guests, spurring the hotel to consider how long it will stay open for. “We have received a lot of positive responses from guests who have [visited] the skating rink. There is nothing like it in the neighbourhood and it offers a new experience! It will be open throughout the winter season, and we haven’t announced an exact closure date yet,” Nick Angel said.

Skating costs US$20 (€18) for adults and US$12 (€11) for children, which includes skate rental and admission.

Vale Rink is open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2pm to 10pm, Friday and Saturdays from 2pm to 12am, and Sundays from 12pm to 10pm.

More information is available at the official William Vale website.

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