exhibits

Empire Skate of Mind

Opening Saturday, November 15

Brooklyn’s Roller Rink is Back

This November, Brooklyn gets its roller rink back. Empire Skate of Mind brings roller skating to BCM’s rooftop terrace—disco music, all-ages fun, and a nod to the legendary Empire Roller Rink that made skating history right here in our neighborhood.

Empire Roller Rink

For decades, Empire Roller Rink at 200 Empire Blvd was where Brooklyn came to roll. From the 1940s through 2007, it was the birthplace of roller disco and a community institution, less than a mile from where we stand today. Now, we’re bringing that spirit back with a fresh spin.

Four Wheels, Endless Fun

Lace up on our rooftop terrace. Step onto the rink. Find your balance—or 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, rolling to disco, your rhythm, your pace. We provide the skates, helmets, and wrist guards. You bring the energy.

And when you’re ready for more, the whole Museum is open to you: explore, play, make it a day.

Not Your Average Rink

  • Family First Skate with your kids, not from the sidelines. This is a family experience—everyone rolls together.
  • Built for Beginners (and Everyone Else) Teaching your kid to skate? Learning together? This is the place. We provide the safety gear. Set your own pace.
  • Outdoor Fun Without the Freeze Fresh air, physical activity, no screens. Our rink is sheltered from the elements, and the Museum is steps away when you need to warm up.
  • The Full BCM Experience The rink is just the beginning. Your skating ticket includes full Museum access: exhibits, programs, play spaces. Make it an hour or make it all day.
  • Disco Energy, Community Spirit Music that moves you. A vibe that brings people together. The Empire legacy lives on.

Birthdays That Move You

Make their birthday the one everyone remembers. Book a private party with everything included: the rink, equipment, music, and full Museum experience. Weekend dates book quickly, so don’t wait to reach out.

How It Works

When We’re Open November 15, 2025 – April 12, 2026 | Wednesday–Friday 2–5 pm | Weekends 10 am–5 pm

Who Can Come Families with kids ages 3+. Helmets and wrist guards required (provided by us). Caregivers can skate alongside or supervise from the sidelines.

Interested in adults-only skating sessions? We’re exploring evening options. Drop us a line at hello@brooklynkids.org or DM us on Instagram.

What It Costs
Museum admission: $15 per person (Free for BCM members and visitors under 1)
Skating Tickets:

  • With rental skates: $10 per person ($8 for members)
  • Bring your own: $8 per person ($6 for members)

What’s Included

  • Unlimited skating during your visit
  • Safety equipment (helmet, wrist guards)
  • Skate rental (if needed)
  • Full-day Museum access

Let’s Roll

Brooklyn’s skating legacy is back. Opening weekend starts November 15. Pick your date, get your tickets, and we’ll see you on the rink.