By Nicole Breskin
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
ROCKEFELLER CENTER — Tough economic times didn’t stop locals and tourists alike from flocking to Rockefeller Center for the official opening of the ice skating rink Monday.
“We were concerned,” said Carol Olsen, manager of Rockefeller Center's ice rink. “Because of the economy we were worried about the affects on us. But it’s been a very good day.”
More than 1,000 patrons from the Tri-State area and beyond enjoyed themselves slipping and sliding on the ice, even if the cost can get hefty for an average family.
Skating on the famed ice rink costs $14.50 for adults and $8.50 for children under 11, not to mention an additional $8 for skate rentals.
“It’s expensive,” said Darren Altiere, who travelled by train to Manhattan from Woodbury, Conn., with his wife and three children. “But this is once a year, and you’ve got to make the most of every day because you don’t know what tomorrow will bring since it's not the greatest of economic times.”
Altiere, a lawyer, estimates the skating, food and train trip set he and his wife back at least $300.
Isabell Bennett, 8, convinced her mom to take her to skate on opening day, even though it was nearly double the price of Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers.
“It’s kind of magical here,” said Isabell, who lives on the Upper West Side. “It’s so bright, with lots of people. I wanted to come here today.”
Chelsea Piers had a deal for $10 for skating and skate rentals on Columbus Day.
Not everyone at Rockefeller Center needed to have skates on to enjoy themselves. Mary Aisellet came from Brooklyn on her day off to watch the skaters from the plaza above the rink.
“I won’t be skating,” said Aisellet, a 47-year-old housekeeper. “It’s too much money. But it’s nice to watch.”
The opening of the rink is good news for area merchants.
“The rink draws a ton of business to the center,” said Jeff Keltz, who manages Cucina & Co, a café that offers rink-side views. “People fly to the rink like flies to a light.”
Keltz said at least 100 more patrons came to his store on Monday's rink opening. He hopes the pattern helps offset the 30 percent sales dip in business he experienced since the economic crisis began.
“Business is noticeably better today,” Keltz said. “I can’t wait to get to Christmas, when the tree is up there.”
