What’s better than bumper cars? Apparently, bumper cars on ice! Now through March 2, Bryant Park is hosting this unique bumper cars attraction nestled in the heart of New York City. Unlike typical bumper cars found at carnivals that are often quite jerky, these cars can swerve, slide and spin with ease, taking the attraction to a whole new level. I recently went with my good friend Eitan for a battle royale on ice at the esteemed park.
In the center of Bryant Park is an NHL-size ice rink spanning 17,000 square feet, allowing visitors to skate for free or pay a fee to rent skates (see issue #509 https://jewishlink.news/bryant-parks-winter-village-a-whimsical-nyc-experience). While the bumper cars are open, a special padded wall is set up near the bank of the rink where around 15 cars are situated, awaiting eager riders. Eitan and I arrived around 6 p.m., and fortunately, there weren’t too many people ahead of us, so we were able to get our vehicles right away.
Each bumper car reminded me of a large tube used on waterslides, but on wheels. The cars were very low to the ground and easy to get into. On top of the tube was a chair for riders to sit on and a footrest for stretching out legs comfortably. Flashing lights on the side of the cars made the vehicles look like mini UFOs, with riders hovering around like alien pilots on the shimmering ice. Eitan and I each chose a green and blue vehicle to ride, but there are various other colors to select as well. A ride attendant brought each of our vehicles close to the gate, allowing us to get seated without needing to step on the ice for long.
Moving the bumper cars was very simple, with two joysticks within arm’s reach controlling the car’s movement. Pushing down on both joysticks made the car lurch forward while pulling them back reversed the car. Pushing just one joystick directed the vehicle, so the left joystick veered left and the right veered right. The bumper cars section was extensive, stretching the entire width of the ice rink, but it wasn’t very wide as it was just a fractioned-off segment.
The bumper cars felt faster than I expected and much more nimble than regular bumper cars. Multiple times, Eitan and I positioned ourselves on opposite sides of the rink, charging toward each other as fast as we could to test the impact of our collisions. I also enjoyed spinning the car in a circle, around and around really fast. It felt like being on a roller coaster and it was exhilarating watching the New York skyscrapers lit up in the winter night whizzing by me in a blur. While riding, the park played great music, including many of my favorite ‘80s songs, such as hits from Hall & Oates, creating an amazing ambiance surrounded by iconic buildings such as One Vanderbilt and the Empire State Building.
Beyond bumping into each other and spinning around, Eitan and I organized a spontaneous game of “tag” with a few strangers we befriended. In this game, someone was designated as “it” and everyone endeavored to avoid that person.” If they got bumped, they, in turn, became the new “it.” We played for a few minutes, adding an extra layer of excitement.
When we were near each other, Eitan and I could talk and hear each other fine, but when we got separated, it was mostly just bumping into people on our own. I was more than fine with it; I enjoyed ramming into random strangers whom I’d (likely) never see again. However, I wouldn’t recommend it as a first date activity if you’re trying to get to know someone, as it’s not conducive to conversation unless you and your party are near each other and both are not moving.
While on their website it says rides are 10 minutes, Eitan and I were able to ride for close to an hour. The staff was extremely friendly and as long as there wasn’t a line of people waiting, we got to keep on riding. I can’t say that will happen for everyone, so I would expect a shorter ride, but be aware that it’s possible, if not likely, that you can ride for much longer like we did. After finishing the bumper cars, Eitan and I headed to the Lodge, an indoor heated area with a fancy bar for some soda and to warm up. Throughout the winter, the Lodge hosts unique free events, including the “Laughs at the Lodge” comedy event on Wednesday, Jan. 31 at 8 p.m., as well as DJ Vinyl Nights and concerts featuring local artists.
The bumper cars on ice weren’t as fast as those at a carnival, but the icy surface gave me a sense of control and sleekness, allowing easy swiveling and swerving. I found the experience more enjoyable compared to regular bumper cars and even bumper boats (which are extra fun since they’re in the water, which is fetch and you get wet), as they tend to feel slower in comparison.
If you’re looking for a fun activity in the city and seeking a different kind of experience with some thrills, I definitely recommend checking out these ice bumper cars.
Admission: $20/$25 a person depending on day
Address: The Rink at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park Entrance between 40th and 42nd Street on 6th Avenue
Any open cars can be reserved onsite on a first come, first served basis. Open through March 2.
Requirements: Age 7 and up, at least 42 inches tall and under 300 pounds
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 2-8 p.m.; Friday-Sunday: noon-6 p.m.
(212) 768-4242
www.bryantpark.org/activities/bank-of-america-winter-village-at-bryant-park
Zachary Greenberg is a consultant at Semler Brossy and the TABC track coach. In 2017, Zachary came in first place out of all Americans in the Eilat Desert Marathon. He also recently watched the film “Anyone But You” in theaters. If you have any recommendations of fun places for him to cover, email [email protected].
