For the next couple weeks, I’ll publish a day trip suggestion on Sundays, and I am counting on readers to send suggestions. This contribution is from Tribecan Jolene Howard, who owns 87 on Walker, which has been closed for the pandemic. So in the meantime she and her daughter have been making tracks around the city.

THE DESTINATION
Pier 2 Roller Rink in Brooklyn Bridge Park
Check here for the schedule, but in general it is open Tuesday through Friday from 4 till 8:30p; weekends from 11a to 8:30p. Closed Mondays.
Pier 2 will be open for skating until mid-October, give or take based upon the weather.

THE JOURNEY
By Subway: Ride in the front car of the A/C to High Street. Exit out from Cadman Plaza/Cranberry and walk about 12 minutes. Take the scenic walk through Squibb Park to traverse across the charming wooden pedestrian bridge.
By NYCFerry: One quick ferry stop from Wall Street/Pier 11 to Dumbo. Walk south on the footpath along the East River for about 6 minutes.

PIT STOP
Grimaldi’s Pizza, which may actually be manageable now without the tourist crowds (they are at a newish location at 1 Front). They also have a patio.

Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory moved to a new location across from its former home and is serving light bites in addition to the award-winning ice cream classics.

Luke’s Lobster Shack for takeout is in the park closer to the Brooklyn Bridge.

THE BACKGROUND
My daughter and I were amazed – the outdoor covered rink was all ours on a Monday in September. Brooklyn Bridge Park boasts five acres of playing courts, ping pong, bocce, swing sets, turf and the new-this-summer Uplands “sprayground” water playground plus skating. The roller rink is big, beautiful and the Manhattan backdrop is unparalleled. On our visit, the park was buzzing – basketball courts were active, handball courts and fitness equipment were in use, families and nannies with kids were picnicking on the grass while we skated like maniacs to Top 40 hits on our own private rink, all for $15! I think this experience qualifies as a Pandemic Perk.

PRO TIPS

• There are multiple skate sessions offered each day starting at 11a, and there is a half-hour break between sessions. The number of sessions varies daily. Check the schedule.
• Advanced tickets are required. Tickets are $7 and can be bundled with skate rental for $15.
• Admission is free on Wednesday mornings, and pre-ticketing is required. Regular skate rental fees apply.
• A “Skate Mate” apparatus is available to newbies who need the extra help.
• Masks must be worn at the facility at all times.
• The skate surface is covered with a resin/plastic-y layer. This prevents skilled skaters from zipping around at high speeds.
• Public restrooms are available, but I didn’t check them out.
• Even though the rink is covered, skating is closed on rainy days.

TO BRING

• Socks
• Your skates or blades and wristguards if you have them. You won’t be allowed on the rink without wristguards. Rentals are available on-site for a reasonable fee.
• A quarter. Yes, an actual 25 cent piece. You’ll need this if you want to rent a locker.