The best roller skating in NYC for kids

Kids will get excited about fitness while skating around Brooklyn Bridge Park’s outdoor rink. The spacious roller arena sits along the East River and offers beautiful views from the pier. As for rentals, you can choose from roller or inline skates while little ones start off with the help of a skate mate until they become speedy pros. 

Nestled in Prospect Park, LeFrak Center at Lakeside offers plenty of opportunity for family fun. Kids and adults alike can rent skates onsite or bring their own—either way, the 16,000-square-foot rink will keep everyone busy for hours. For parents on date night, there’s also Lola Star’s Dreamland at Lakeside, where adults can enjoy disco dancing, kitschy contests, wacky performers and even roller dance lessons.

Before converting to an ice-skating venue in late October or early November, the covered rink at the 28-acre green space hosts in-line and quad skaters of all ages. The uptown park—rising 69 feet above the Hudson River—also offers a sweet view of the Little Red Lighthouse, plus rides on the charming Totally Kid Carousel, whose offbeat animals were designed by local children.

Staten Islanders looking for some roller skating fun without having to leave the island can head to this arcade/roller rink. Take a whirl around the bright blue rink and then play a few rounds of Skee-Ball or race car video games. Head in Friday nights when everyone is treated to all-you-can-eat pizza (7pm–10pm). And if you’re looking for a cool spot to celebrate your kid’s next birthday, the rink hosts private parties with six huge bounce houses.