The new Van Cortlandt Park Ice Skating Rink is located just inside the 242st Street entrance of Van Cortlandt Park, making it easy to spot and right by the subway. A small building fashioned from blue shipping containers houses lockers, skate rentals, benches and a tiny concession stand that sells pizza, cupcakes, coffee and hot chocolate on weekends only.

The main attraction is the large rink, which is built atop the park's abandoned tennis courts. My family and I lucked out when we visited. It was a mild 50 degrees so we skated for quite a while. There are no sessions; admission grants you access to the rink as long as you want until closing time.

We were really impressed by the rink staff, who were all incredibly attentive. If someone took a spill, whether child or adult, a pro was there in a flash to offer assistance so everything always ran smoothly.

In addition to public skating hours, the rink also offers skating lessons, hockey and birthday parties. We had a fun time during our visit and plan to return again before the rink closes for the season in March 2014. Even if you don't live in the Bronx, it's a great alternative to the rinks in Central Park, which are often quite crowded. If you work up an appetite, hit one of the family-friendly restaurants in the area for dinner.

The Van Cortlandt Park Ice Skating Rink is located on Broadway and 242nd Street, just steps away from the last stop on the 1 subway line. Admission is $5 on weekdays, $8 on weekends (starting Friday night at 6pm) and holidays. Skate rental is $5. Helmet and locker rentals are also available.

Read about other outdoor ice skating rinks in NYC or find additional seasonal fun in our Holiday Guide.