Ice Skating at Central Park plus St Patrick’s Cathedral Tour

Experience the Magic of New York with This Combo Tour

Imagine gliding across Wollman Rink in Central Park, surrounded by towering trees and iconic city skyline views, then stepping inside the awe-inspiring St. Patrick’s Cathedral to soak in its Gothic grandeur. For $45.99 per person, this roughly three-hour experience offers a chance to tick off two of New York City’s most beloved attractions—at your own pace and with guaranteed entry. The tour includes a ticket to the rink (skate rentals not included) and a self-guided audio tour of the cathedral, making it an ideal option for travelers wanting a blend of outdoor activity and cultural discovery.

We particularly appreciate the flexibility this tour provides. You can choose your own timing for skating and touring, avoiding the hassle of crowded guided groups. Plus, the inclusion of an audio guide narrated by Cardinal Timothy Dolan at St. Patrick’s adds a personal touch, making your visit both informative and immersive.

One potential downside? The ticket price doesn’t include skate rentals, which come at an extra cost—something to keep in mind if you’re looking to keep expenses down. And, because it’s a self-guided experience, those seeking a more structured or guided tour might prefer different options. Overall, it’s best suited for those who enjoy exploring independently and having control over their schedule.

If you’re a traveler who relishes authentic experiences, appreciates some historical and cultural context, and wants to enjoy a classic NYC winter activity, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Flexible scheduling allows you to enjoy each attraction on your own timeline.
• Includes guaranteed admission to Wollman Rink and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, avoiding long lines.
• Audio guide narration enriches the cathedral visit, making it more meaningful.
• Skate rentals are separate and cost about $12 USD + tax.
• Perfect for travelers who prefer self-guided exploration and want to maximize authentic experiences.
• Not ideal for those seeking guided tours or all-inclusive pricing.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Ice Skating at Wollman Rink – A Classic NYC Winter Experience

The highlight for many is undoubtedly skating at Wollman Rink, an outdoor ice skating rink that’s long been part of New York’s winter charm. Located in the southeast corner of Central Park near Fifth Avenue and the Plaza Hotel, this rink has been featured in films like Love Story and Home Alone 2. Your ticket guarantees your spot at your chosen time, giving you the chance to enjoy about 1.5 hours of skating in a setting that’s quintessentially New York.

We loved the way the rink’s background music and scenic surroundings set a festive mood. It’s less about serious skating and more about the joy of gliding in one of the city’s most picturesque spots. Skates can be rented on-site for around $12 USD + tax, or you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

One thing to keep in mind from a review: the ticket process might cause some frustration. As one traveler noted, “the link did not work for the booth to print the tickets,” leading to an unexpected purchase of a second set. This highlights the importance of arriving early or verifying your tickets ahead of time if possible.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral: A Gothic Treasure

Following your outdoor adventure, you’ll move to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a towering Gothic structure that dominates Fifth Avenue opposite Rockefeller Center. Open since 1879, this cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the U.S. It’s a place where history and artistry meet, with stained-glass windows, a grand main altar, and the famous Pieta sculpture—three times the size of Michelangelo’s.

The self-guided audio tour narrated by Cardinal Dolan adds depth without taking over your visit. It takes about an hour, giving you ample time to appreciate the 9000 lb. bronze doors, the Lady Chapel, and the twin spires that define the NYC skyline. Many visitors find the experience both inspiring and educational, especially with the ability to explore at their own pace.

We appreciated the convenience of expedited entry, which helps avoid long lines during busy times. As one review pointed out, the audio tour in the cathedral is “certainly worth the time,” especially for those interested in learning more about this iconic landmark.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This combo is perfect for independent travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace. If you’re someone who values authentic experiences and wants a mix of outdoor activity and cultural discovery, this offers great value. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy winter activities and want to avoid overly structured guided tours.

Plus, if you’re on a budget, note that while the total cost is reasonable, skate rentals are extra. So, bringing your own skates could save you money. The self-guided audio tour at the cathedral is a bonus for those who like to learn on their own.

Conversely, if you prefer guided groups or are uncomfortable navigating tickets and timings independently, this might not be the best fit.

Deep Dive: Breaking Down the Experience

The Rink Experience

The Wollman Rink is more than just a skating spot; it’s a piece of New York cinematic history. Surrounded by the city’s skyline and Central Park’s natural beauty, it offers a uniquely magical setting. You’ll appreciate the timed entry tickets that help manage crowds, making your visit smoother.

What really stands out is the view of Manhattan’s skyscrapers reflected in the ice, and the chance to experience winter in a city that rarely pauses for snow. The background music, often familiar holiday tunes or classic hits, adds to the joyful atmosphere.

The Cathedral’s Grandeur

St. Patrick’s is a must-see for its architecture and historical significance. The audio guide is narrated by a familiar voice—Cardinal Dolan—which makes the visit feel personal. We loved the chance to step inside and see the stained-glass windows, the bronze doors, and the Jean-Baptiste Pieta, which is notably larger than Michelangelo’s.

The Lady Chapel offers a quieter space for reflection, and the twin spires are an unmistakable symbol of NYC. The self-guided aspect means you can linger over details that catch your eye, making it an intimate and flexible experience.

Practical Tips

• Be prepared for extra costs if you want to rent skates—bring your own if possible.
• Arrive early for the cathedral if you want to beat the crowds or take your time with the audio guide.
• The tour is about three hours, so plan your day accordingly, especially if you’re visiting other attractions.
• Public transportation options make it easy to connect with the starting points—think subway or nearby bus lines.

Authenticity and Value

Many travelers highlight the good value of this experience, especially when compared to guided tours that cost more and often have less flexibility. The knowledgeable narration at St. Patrick’s and the picturesque skating are what make this tour stand out. Though there have been a few hiccups, like the ticket printing issues, overall the experience seems to deliver as promised.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for an affordable, flexible way to enjoy two of New York’s most iconic sights, this tour offers a good mix of outdoor fun and cultural discovery. It’s well-suited for independent travelers who like to set their own pace and enjoy authentic experiences. The combination of skating in Central Park and exploring St. Patrick’s Cathedral provides a memorable snapshot of NYC’s charm—perfect for a winter visit or as a unique daytime activity.

This experience is especially valuable if you appreciate self-guided exploration and want to avoid the crowds or rigid schedules of guided tours. It’s ideal for those who prioritize authenticity, value, and flexibility over a highly structured tour.

While not the cheapest option available—especially considering skate rental costs—it offers a compelling mix of entertainment and culture, making it a worthwhile addition to your NYC itinerary.

FAQ: Practical Questions About This Tour

Does the ticket include skate rentals?
No, skate rentals are not included. You can rent skates on-site for about $12 USD + tax, or bring your own.

Can I choose my skating time?
Yes, the ticket provides a timed entry, so you can select the most convenient time for your schedule.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour itself doesn’t specify age restrictions, skating and visiting the cathedral can be enjoyable for families with children who are comfortable with outdoor skating and self-guided tours.

How long does each part of the tour take?
The skating session is about 1.5 hours, and the self-guided audio tour of the cathedral takes around an hour. Overall, plan for approximately three hours.

What kind of experience can I expect at Wollman Rink?
Expect a scenic outdoor skating experience with views of the NYC skyline, background music, and a festive atmosphere in winter.

Is the audio guide at St. Patrick’s Cathedral available in multiple languages?
Yes, the audio tour is multi-lingual, allowing non-English speakers to enjoy the experience.

What if I need to cancel or change my reservation?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Whether you’re seeking a fun outdoor activity or a chance to soak in some of New York’s most historic sights, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience the city’s winter charm.