The LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Prospect Park is a large and popular recreational destination that offers a variety of activities year-round. During winter, visitors can enjoy ice skating, figure skating, curling, hockey, and broomball, while in warmer months, options include roller skating, biking, boating, and water play. The center features two ice rinks, one covered and one open, with the covered rink being slightly larger and less crowded. The facility has a cafe that serves light fare and beverages throughout the year. Many visitors find the skating experiences enjoyable, especially since the center is often busy but accessible without reservations. The skates are generally good, and the staff is friendly and helpful, making it a favorite spot for frequent skaters who bring their own equipment. However, some concerns have been raised about the rink's maintenance and safety. One reviewer noted that a quarter of the rink is off-limits due to storage, which affects the skating experience, and expressed disappointment that the price is not reduced accordingly. Others mentioned that the bathrooms are often dirty and poorly stocked, and that security personnel sometimes skate erratically, which can be unsettling. Additionally, there have been issues with skate sharpening services, with some skates being unevenly sharpened, though this is not a common complaint. Despite these concerns, many visitors appreciate the center's scenic setting, affordability, and availability, especially during busy holiday times when other nearby rinks are sold out. Overall, LeFrak Center at Lakeside is a favorite for locals and visitors seeking outdoor skating and recreational activities in NYC.
Rented a bike/kart thing, staff didn’t really seem prepared to help. Also there was no route for the bikes and we got stuck. Probably wouldn’t recommend paying for bikes here.
February 2024
Favorite place to skate, usually the skates are good and no issues with the workers ever. Have my own skates now and come here often! So pretty and overall no complaints
January 2024
We decided to go to this iceskating center because during christmas every other one we saw were sold out. It was still very full there, which wouldn‘t be a problem if everyone would be skating normal. But of all the things, the security staff were the ones that were skating like they are crazy.And also, we didn‘t like... read full comment