About
Disco roller skating on a rooftop with skyline views returns to Brooklyn Children's Museum, a nod to the legendary Empire Rink — reopening weekend.
The museum's rooftop turns into a disco-soundtracked roller rink with skyline views, a tribute to the Empire Roller Rink that sat less than a mile away and helped launch roller disco. Kids 3 and up can wobble through their first laps while grown-ups skate alongside, then head downstairs for the rest of the museum. If your family has been waiting for the rink to come back, the reopening weekend is your first chance this season.
What to expect
Buy museum admission plus a skating add-on, pick up skates, a helmet and wrist guards, and head up to the rooftop terrace. The rink plays classic tracks for skaters of every level, and your ticket also covers all the museum's exhibits and programs for the day.
Good to know
- Skaters must be 3 or older; grown-ups can skate with their kids.
- Bring your own skates for a cheaper add-on.
- Helmet, wrist guards and a pair of shoe covers come with the skating ticket.
- The museum is at 145 Brooklyn Avenue; the 3 train to Kingston Av and the C to Kingston–Throop Avs are the closest stops.
- Weekend hours are the longest, so plan a weekday afternoon if you want fewer skaters.
- Museum members get in free and pay less for skating.
Common questions
How much does it cost to skate?
Museum admission is $15 per person, followed by an $10 skating add-on with rental skates or an $8 add-on with your own skates.
Who is allowed to skate?
The rink welcomes families with children ages 3 and older, and caregivers may skate or supervise from the sidelines.
What are the public skating hours?
Public skating runs from 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday and from 2pm to 5pm Wednesday through Friday.
Can I bring my own skates?
Yes. Personal roller skates are allowed, but inline skates are prohibited; required helmets and wrist guards are provided.
Does admission include the rest of the museum?
Yes. General admission provides full-day access to the museum’s exhibits, programs, and play spaces.
Can weather or private events affect skating?
Yes. Public rink availability may change because of weather or private parties, so the museum advises checking your date before visiting.