A roller skating rink is now open at Rockefeller Center
Credit: © Albert Vecerka/Esto
Rockefeller Center’s ice rink has been transformed just in time for the warm weather. Starting Friday, The Rink at Rockefeller Center will instead be Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace, a retro-themed outdoor roller skating rink that will include a food program, viewing deck, and a retail store. Opened by Liberty Ross, the rink will include weekly and seasonal programming, DJ sets, and live music.
Designed by Bureau Betak, the rink will host lessons, community events, and create social content that showcases the diversity of the roller-skating community. Flipper’s store will sell vintage-themed rolling skating apparel and accessories. Special collaborations will be released throughout the year.
Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace is actually the creation of Ross’ father, Ian ‘Flipper’ Ross, who ran the original rink in Los Angeles from 1978 to 1981. Described by actress Jaclyn Smith as “Studio 54 on wheels,” the family-owned and operated rink shared the joy of roller skating for the brief period it was active and was frequented by dozens of high profile celebrities, including Elton John, Prince, and Cher. Liberty Ross and Co-Founder Kevin Wall, in partnership with Usher, have revived the rink which made rolling skating accessible to people of all ages.
“Our goal is to build world-class spaces where everyone is welcome; spaces where connection and self expression roll free, without judgment or prejudice,” Ross said.
“It’s my hope to support the amazing roller skating community and the future of the sport, while welcoming the curious to the freedom and fun that is roller skating. Flipper’s is — and always has been — a place for individuality, experimentation, joy and respect.”
Flipper’s has partnered with the nearby Saks Fifth Avenue to support mental health through their programming. They’ve made a contribution towards the Saks Fifth Avenue Foundation, whose mission is to increase awareness about mental health education.
Ross will be opening an additional location in West London later this year, mirroring the same exciting programming that Rockefeller Center’s location will have to offer.
The rink will be opened all week long, with hours of operation including:
- Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday — 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Thursday and Friday — 10 a.m. to 12 a.m.
- Saturday — 8 a.m. to 12 a.m.
- Sunday — 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace will be open from April 15 through October 31, just in time for the rink to return to its icy form. Tickets start at $20, not including skate rentals.
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Editor’s note: The original version of this story was published on March 15, 2022, and has since been updated with new information.
