Empire Skate of Mind
Brooklyn’s Roller Rink is Back
Empire Skate of Mind returns to Brooklyn Children’s Museum on Saturday, September 26. Bring the family to BCM’s rooftop terrace for roller skating, good music, and a celebration of the Brooklyn rink that made skating history right here in our neighborhood.
The Empire Roller Rink Legacy
For decades, Empire Roller Rink at 200 Empire Boulevard was where Brooklyn came to roll. From the 1940s through 2007, it was a community institution and the birthplace of roller disco, less than a mile from where BCM stands today.
Empire Skate of Mind carries that spirit forward for a new generation of Brooklyn families.
Four Wheels, Endless Fun
Lace up and step onto the rink. Find your balance or find your groove if you’ve done this before. Maybe you’re teaching your kid to skate for the first time. Maybe they’re teaching you. Either way, you’re moving together at your own pace.
Skates are available to rent and we provide the required helmets and wrist guards. When you’re ready for more, the rest of the Museum is waiting. Explore, play, and make a day of it.
Not Your Average Rink
- Skate Together Skate with your kids, don’t watch from the sidelines. Children and caregivers can learn, move, and have fun together.
- Beginners Welcome Finding your balance for the first time? Back on skates after a few years away? Take your time and find your rhythm.
- A Full BCM Day General admission gives you access to the Museum’s exhibits, programs, and play spaces. Add skating to your visit and enjoy both.
- Disco Energy, Brooklyn Spirit Music, movement, and a rink built around bringing people together. The Empire legacy rolls on.
More Ways to Roll
Look out for First Friday events and programs with 4WRD Roller Skate throughout the season, offering more opportunities to learn, skate, and experience the rink. Dates and details will be announced soon.
Plan Your Visit
When We’re Open Empire Skate of Mind opens Saturday, September 26 and runs through Sunday, April 11.
Public skating hours:
- Saturday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
- Wednesday – Friday: 2 – 5 pm
Public skating availability may vary because of private parties. Weather conditions may also affect the rink. Check availability for your date before visiting.
Who Can Skate Empire Skate of Mind welcomes families with children ages 3 and older. Caregivers can skate alongside their children or supervise from the sidelines.
Helmets and wrist guards are required and provided. You may bring your own roller skates, but inline skates, also known as rollerblades, are not allowed.
What It Costs General Museum admission is required:
- $15 per person
- Free for BCM members and visitors under age 1
Add skating to your visit:
- With rental skates: $10 per person; $8 for members
- With your own skates: $8 per person; $6 for members
Your Skating Ticket Includes
- Skating during available public rink hours
- Helmet and wrist guards
- Skate rental, if selected
- One complimentary pair of shoe covers
Your general Museum admission includes full-day access to BCM’s exhibits, programs, and play spaces.
Let’s Roll
Empire Skate of Mind returns September 26. Choose your date, get your tickets, and we’ll see you on the rink.