Best Ice Skating Locations in the U.S.
When winter descends, ice skating transforms from a local pastime to a cherished seasonal activity at some of the best locations across the United States. From lively urban rinks to serene natural landscapes, these venues offer a unique blend of fun, festive atmosphere, and stunning backdrops, making them perfect for both seasoned skaters and beginners alike.
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Among the top ice skating locations, New York City's iconic Rockefeller Center stands out, especially during the holiday season when its massive Christmas tree illuminates the rink below. In Chicago, the picturesque Millennium Park offers a stunning skyline view, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. For a more tranquil experience, visit the enchanting Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada, where the breathtaking scenery complements the joy of skating on a frozen lake. Other notable mentions include the outdoor rink at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., and the charming rinks in small towns like Stowe, Vermont. Each of these locations provides not just ice skating but also a unique cultural experience, making them unforgettable winter destinations.
Rockefeller CenterView AllRockefeller Center - Iconic ice skating rink beneath the towering Christmas tree.
Millennium ParkView AllMillennium Park - Iconic Chicago park featuring a scenic ice skating rink.
Wollman RinkView AllWollman Rink - Iconic ice skating rink in Central Park, New York.
LaSalle StreetView AllLaSalle Street - LaSalle Street: Iconic Chicago rink, vibrant urban atmosphere.
Beaver Creek Ice RinkView AllBeaver Creek Ice Rink - Scenic outdoor rink with stunning mountain views.
Bryant ParkView AllBryant Park - Charming NYC park with seasonal ice skating rink.
Ice at the SaguaroView AllIce at the Saguaro - Indoor rink offering unique desert ice skating experience.
Boston Common Frog PondView AllBoston Common Frog Pond - Iconic ice skating rink in Boston's historic Common.
The Ice Rink at Pier 17View AllThe Ice Rink at Pier 17 - Scenic waterfront rink with stunning city views.
Kelly's Ice HouseView AllKelly's Ice House - Charming rink known for family-friendly ice skating experiences.
Best Ice Skating Locations in the U.S.
1.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center, located in the heart of New York City, is renowned for its iconic ice skating rink, often considered one of the best in the U.S. Each winter, the rink transforms into a magical winter wonderland beneath the towering Christmas tree, attracting ice skaters and spectators alike. The rink, surrounded by stunning Art Deco architecture and vibrant holiday displays, offers a unique blend of urban charm and festive spirit. Open to skaters of all skill levels, Rockefeller Center provides an unforgettable skating experience amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
Pros
Iconic views of the city- Vibrant holiday atmosphere
- Convenient location in Midtown Manhattan
- Surrounded by dining and shopping
- All skill levels welcome
Cons
Crowds can be overwhelming- high prices for admission
- limited skating time
- weather-dependent conditions
- nearby construction disruption.
2.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park, located in the heart of Chicago, is a premier destination for ice skating enthusiasts during the winter months. The park features a picturesque ice rink surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant city views, including the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture. Open from mid-November to mid-March, the rink offers free admission, with skate rentals available on-site. Visitors can enjoy a festive atmosphere, complete with seasonal events and holiday decorations, making it a perfect spot for families, couples, and friends to embrace the winter spirit in a stunning urban setting.
Pros
- Stunning city skyline views
- Vibrant atmosphere with events
- Ice skating rentals available on-site
- Convenient location in downtown Chicago
- Great for families and groups.
Cons
- Crowds can be overwhelming during peak times
- Limited skating hours can restrict visits
- Weather can be unpredictable
- Ice conditions may vary
- Parking can be challenging.
3.
Wollman Rink
Wollman Rink, located in Central Park, New York City, is an iconic ice skating destination cherished by locals and tourists alike. Nestled amidst the park's scenic landscapes, the rink offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, creating a magical atmosphere. Open seasonally, it features a spacious skating area, making it ideal for both casual skaters and families. The rink is surrounded by charming holiday lights during winter, enhancing its allure. With skate rentals available and a lively ambiance, Wollman Rink is a must-visit for anyone seeking a quintessential New York skating experience.
Pros
- Scenic Central Park location
- Iconic NYC experience
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Seasonal events and activities
- Accessible to all skill levels.
Cons
- Crowded during peak times
- high admission prices
- limited skating hours
- inconsistent ice quality
- expensive concessions.
4.
LaSalle Street
LaSalle Street in Chicago is a vibrant urban hub known for its stunning architecture and proximity to some of the city's best ice skating locations. During the winter months, the nearby Millennium Park transforms into a popular skating destination, featuring a picturesque rink against the backdrop of the iconic Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the Chicago skyline. The festive atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights and seasonal events, attracts both locals and tourists. LaSalle Street's central location offers easy access to dining and shopping, making it an ideal spot for a full day of winter fun.
Pros
- Scenic city views
- Convenient location
- Vibrant atmosphere
- Great for all skill levels
- Nearby dining options
Cons
- Crowded during peak hours
- Limited amenities nearby
- Expensive admission fees
- Weather-dependent conditions
- Limited skate rental options.
5.
Beaver Creek Ice Rink
Nestled in the picturesque Beaver Creek Resort in Colorado, the Beaver Creek Ice Rink offers a magical winter experience for skaters of all ages. This outdoor rink, surrounded by stunning mountain views and charming alpine architecture, features a smooth ice surface ideal for leisurely skating or fun-filled family activities. Open year-round, it transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months, complete with twinkling lights and seasonal events. After skating, visitors can warm up with hot cocoa at nearby cafes, making it a perfect destination for winter enthusiasts.
Pros
- Stunning mountain views
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Quality ice conditions
- Convenient location near shops
- Variety of skating events and activities.
Cons
- Limited skating hours
- high rental costs
- crowded during peak times
- weather-dependent conditions
- parking can be challenging.
6.
Bryant Park
Bryant Park, nestled in the heart of Manhattan, is a beloved winter destination for ice skating enthusiasts. The park features a charming, free outdoor rink surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the New York City skyline. The rink, typically open from late October to early March, is complemented by cozy holiday shops and festive food vendors, creating a vibrant winter wonderland. With skate rentals available and a lively atmosphere, Bryant Park offers a magical ice skating experience, making it one of the best locations in the U.S. for winter fun.
Pros
- Central location in Manhattan
- Stunning urban scenery
- Vibrant atmosphere with events
- Convenient access to food vendors
- Seasonal charm with festive decor
Cons
- Crowds can be overwhelming
- Limited skating time slots
- Expensive rental fees
- Weather-dependent conditions
- Nearby attractions can distract.
7.
Ice at the Saguaro
Ice at the Saguaro is a unique seasonal ice skating rink located in the vibrant Saguaro Hotel in Palm Springs, California. Open from late November to January, it offers skaters a picturesque desert backdrop, complete with twinkling lights and a festive atmosphere. The rink caters to all skill levels, providing rental skates and a cozy lounge area for relaxation. Beyond skating, visitors can enjoy holiday-themed events, warm beverages, and delicious snacks, making it an ideal spot for families and friends looking to celebrate the season in an unexpected desert setting.
Pros
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Convenient location in vibrant Saguaro area
- Year-round ice skating available
- Quality facilities and equipment rentals
- Engaging events and activities throughout the year.
Cons
- High admission fees
- Limited public skating hours
- Smaller ice surface
- Inconsistent ice quality
- Crowded during peak times.
8.
Boston Common Frog Pond
Boston Common Frog Pond is a beloved winter destination located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts. Renowned as one of the best ice skating locations in the U.S., this picturesque pond transforms into a vibrant ice rink each winter, attracting both locals and tourists. Surrounded by the scenic Boston Common, skaters of all ages can enjoy gliding on the ice while taking in the stunning urban landscape. With skate rentals available and a festive atmosphere, Boston Common Frog Pond offers a quintessential New England winter experience, making it a must-visit spot for ice skating enthusiasts.
Pros
- Beautiful urban setting
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Affordable rental options
- Seasonal events and activities
- Convenient location in downtown Boston
Cons
- Crowds can make skating difficult
- limited parking options nearby
- weather can be unpredictable
- maintenance issues may arise
- expensive rental costs.
9.
The Ice Rink at Pier 17
The Ice Rink at Pier 17, located in the heart of New York City's Seaport District, offers a stunning waterfront skating experience with breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline. Open seasonally, this charming rink features a festive atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations. Skaters of all ages can enjoy public sessions, themed events, and special performances. The surrounding area boasts a variety of dining and shopping options, making it a perfect destination for a fun day out in the city during the winter months.
Pros
- Scenic views of the Manhattan skyline
- festive atmosphere with seasonal events
- convenient location in Lower Manhattan
- family-friendly activities
- eco-friendly ice surface.
Cons
- Crowded during peak hours
- higher admission fees compared to others
- limited skating time slots
- smaller rink size
- weather-dependent conditions.
10.
Kelly's Ice House
Kelly's Ice House, located in the heart of the Midwest, is a beloved ice skating destination known for its welcoming atmosphere and top-notch facilities. This charming rink offers a variety of skating options, from public sessions to figure skating classes, catering to all skill levels. With its well-maintained ice and vibrant community events, Kelly's Ice House has become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The venue also features a cozy café where skaters can warm up with hot cocoa after a fun day on the ice.
Pros
- Family-friendly environment
- top-notch ice quality
- diverse skating programs
- affordable admission prices
- convenient location in a vibrant community.
Cons
- Crowded during peak times
- limited parking availability
- inconsistent ice quality
- higher admission fees
- less focus on beginner lessons.