Looking for a winter date idea? Look no further.
Ice skating on a cold winter’s day is my favorite way to work up a serious appetite. My family knows that the promise of a tasty lunch or dinner after a long day of skating is the easiest way to get me to the rink! If you are a terrible skater like me, most ice rinks offer classes for beginners that will have you gracefully gliding across the ice before lunchtime.
Nassau County
East Meadow
Grab your scarf and mittens for a fun day of ice skating at the Northwell Health Ice Center. This world-class facility is the official training center of the New York Islanders—but don’t worry, you don’t have to be a pro skater to enjoy these NHL-sized rinks! Skaters of all abilities will have plenty of room to skate either indoors or out. When you are ready to kick off your skates, Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas is the perfect spot to grab a glass of wine and relax. Spuntino focuses on fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Favorites include the Seared Tuna Bruschetta, Black Truffle & Prosciutto Pizze and the Short Rib Cassarecce.
Northwell Health Ice Center • 200 Merrick Ave, East Meadow NY, 516-441-0770
Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas • 1002 Old Country Road, Garden City NY, 516-228-5400
Long Beach
New skaters will have an amazing time at the City of Long Beach Ice Arena. This indoor facility is open year round and offers professional skating instruction to all ages. Students can learn how to skate for playing hockey, figure skating or just skating for the pure joy of being out on the ice. After class head to Lost and Found for elevated comfort food in a cozy, rustic setting. Try the Burrata Salad, Truffled Rustic Potatoes and Garlic Roasted Chicken.
City of Long Beach Ice Arena • 150 West Bay Drive, Long Beach 11561, 516-705-7385
Lost and Found • 951 W Beech St, Long Beach 11561, 516-442-2606
Uniondale
Skip the ride to Rockefeller Center and head to the De Matteis Pavilion Ice Rink at RXR Plaza instead. Bundle up for outdoor skating while admiring the soaring Norwegian spruce tree at this festive outdoor ice-skating rink. There is fun for non-skaters as well with musical performances in the lobby. Thaw out at Guilio Cesare with a piping hot bowl of Veal Meatballs and Pasta. Or, try the Baked Clams, Osso Bucco and Tartufo for dessert.
De Matteis Pavilion Ice Rink • 102 EAB Plaza, Uniondale 11553, 516-683-0303
Giulio Cesare • 18 Ellison Ave, Westbury 11590, 516-334-2982
Suffolk County
Kings Park
Before you hit the ice, treat your family to brunch at Relish. ‘Food, Family, Life’ is the motto of the husband and wife team behind Relish. With a unique Egg and Omelette menu, Ricotta Pancakes and Signature Hash, you may leave too stuffed to lace up your skates. Family-owned and operated Superior Ice Rink is just up the road. Since 1972 the McGuigan family has prided itself on the family atmosphere of their rink. Ice skating is also available year round for the true skating enthusiasts.
Relish • 2 Pulaski Road, Kings Park, 11754, 631-292-2740
Superior Ice Rink • 270 Indian Head Road, Kings Park 11754, 631-269-3900
Port Jefferson
Our family loves the outdoor skating rink at The Rinx Harborfront Park. It is always worth bundling up from head to toe for the chance to enjoy the breath-taking views of Port Jefferson Harbor. Long Islanders know its always colder on the water, I recommend lots and lots of layers! Afterwards, make your way to C’est Cheese on Main Street for a warm Cheddy Topper Pretzel, C’est Cheese BLT and the Chocolate Mascarpone Tart for dessert.
The Rink at Harborfront Park • 101-A E Broadway, Port Jefferson 11777, 631-403-4357
C’est Cheese • 216B Main Street, Port Jefferson 11777, 631-403-4944
Southampton
Another family favorite is the Southampton Ice Rink. The peaceful car ride to the East End always calms my nerves before I wobble out onto the ice. My kids skate far away from me as I clutch the railing and make my best attempt at trying to skate. The sheer exertion of staying upright never fails to leave me famished. Bobby Vans has something for everyone, even the kids. Favorites include The Lobster Roll, Turkey Club and Chicken Tenders with French Fries.
Southampton Ice Rink • 668 County Rd 39, Southampton 11968, 631-283-2158
Bobby Vans Bridgehampton • 2393 Montauk Hwy, Bridgehampton 11932, 631-537-0590
