Outdoor ice skating near me: holiday rinks for families.
Few things feel more like the holidays than skating outside under the lights, with cold cheeks and a hot cocoa after. Most big US cities set up an outdoor rink for the season, and many are open into January or later.
We found 50 outdoor holiday rinks and skating events in 26 US cities for 2026. Each one was checked on its official site, with dates, hours, prices, skate helpers and tips for going with kids.
Our honest take: with little kids, keep it short and keep your hopes small. Kids under 3 mostly slide, march and hold on. Plan 20 to 30 minutes on the ice, pick a big, quieter rink for a first skate, and stop while it's still fun.
Updated . Rinks close for bad weather and change hours, so check the official site before you go.
The famous holiday ice rinks, and which to pick with kids
These are the rinks people dream about. They are also the busiest. With beginners, pick the bigger, calmer rink and save the famous one for watching, or book its first slot of the day.
- The famous one under the tree. Small and busy, so book an early slot Good for toddlersOutdoor
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Oct 10 - Mar 27 Rockefeller Plaza (enter on 49th St between Fifth and Sixth Aves from Nov 14) · New York
Hours: Daily, 9am to midnight, in 60-minute sessions. Closed Dec 1-2 for the tree lighting.
Cost: From $22 a person. Skate rental costs extra. Same-day tickets cost more.
Booking: Timed tickets, book ahead. Same-day tickets are sold at the box office if any are left.
The famous rink sits right under the big Christmas tree. This is its 90th season, and a new skate house opens in mid-November.
Parent tip: Penguin skate helpers for little kids are rented at the rink and can't be booked ahead, so get there a bit early.
Official site - Our NYC pick for beginners. Free if you bring your own skates Good for toddlersFree entryOutdoor
Winter Village at Bryant Park
Oct 28 - Jan 3 Bryant Park · New York
Hours: Holiday shops daily to Jan 3: weekdays 11am-8pm, weekends 10am-8pm. Rink open to Feb 28.
Cost: Free entry. Free skating with your own skates. Skate rental from about $19.
Booking: Walk up for the shops. Reserve a skate slot online; free slots open one week ahead.
An outdoor holiday market of small shops sits around a free ice rink. It is easy to pair with the library or a walk to Rockefeller Center.
Parent tip: Skate sessions last about 50 minutes. Weekday mornings are usually the quietest.
Official site - A big rink in Central Park. Kids 3 and under skate free Good for toddlersOutdoor
Wollman Rink
Oct 28 - Mar 16 Wollman Rink, Central Park · New York
Hours: Daily from 10am. Closes 2:30pm Mon-Tue, 9pm Wed-Thu and Sun, 10pm Fri-Sat.
Cost: Adults $16-$40 by day and time. Kids 4-12 $12. Kids 3 and under free. Skates $12, skate helper $25.
Booking: Timed tickets online. Arrive up to 30 minutes early.
A big outdoor rink inside Central Park with the city skyline above the trees. Weekday mornings cost the least.
Parent tip: Kids under 16 need an adult 21 or older with them. One adult who isn't skating gets in free.
Official site - Under the Brooklyn Bridge, with $5 helmets and skate helpers Good for toddlersOutdoor
Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Nov 14 - Jan 31 Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, Brooklyn Bridge Park · New York
Hours: Mon-Thu 1:30-9:30pm, Fri 12:30-10pm, weekends 10:30am-10pm. Closed Thanksgiving.
Cost: NYC residents $16, plus $8 skates. Visitors $20, plus $12 skates. Helmets and skate helpers $5.
Booking: Buy timed tickets online. Walk up if there is space.
A small rink right under the Brooklyn Bridge, with the Manhattan skyline across the water. You get an hour on the ice.
Parent tip: Rent a skate helper and a helmet with your ticket. Both cost $5.
Official site - Free to skate in Millennium Park, near the BeanFree entryOutdoor
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Nov 20 - Jan 31 Millennium Park · Chicago
Hours: Daily, 11am-10:30pm, weather permitting
Cost: Free to skate. Skate rental costs extra.
Booking: Free reservations. The city will post them soon, so check before you go.
A free rink in Millennium Park, close to the Bean and the city's big Christmas tree.
Parent tip: Free lessons run Sat-Sun 9-10am. A parent has to register to go on the ice with their child.
Official site - A skating path that winds through the parkOutdoor
Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon
Nov 13 - Mar 7 Maggie Daley Park · Chicago
Hours: Daily, in two-hour sessions. Session times change from Dec 11 to Jan 3.
Cost: Skate rental $17-23. Bring your own skates for $5.
Booking: Reserve a session online. Tickets come out in blocks ahead of time.
A skating path loops through the park like a ribbon, with tall buildings all around. Kids keep moving instead of going in circles on a rink.
Parent tip: Strollers aren't allowed on the ice, and you can't carry a child while you skate.
Official site - Skate past giant artworks on the National MallOutdoor
Sculpture Garden Ice Rink
Nov 23 - Mar 7 National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, Constitution Ave between 7th and 9th Sts NW · Washington, DC
Hours: Sun-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm. Sessions start every hour. Closed Dec 25 and Jan 1.
Cost: $15 for ages 13 and up. $12 for kids 12 and under. Skates $7. Lockers free.
Booking: Check nga.gov/icerink for tickets. Lessons need sign-up.
You skate around a fountain in the middle of a garden full of giant artworks on the National Mall. One ticket covers two short sessions in a row.
Parent tip: The rink closes in heavy rain or snow. Check the rink line, 202-216-9397, before you go.
Official site - Skate by the beach, with toddler double-blade skates Good for toddlersOutdoor
Skating by the Sea at Hotel del Coronado
Nov 20 - Jan 3 Hotel del Coronado · San Diego
Hours: Daily, Nov 20-Jan 3. Hours vary; most days 10am-10pm.
Cost: $35-45 per skater, skate rental included
Booking: Book a skate session ahead
An outdoor ice rink sits on the beach side of the historic hotel. The resort also runs a holiday light show that ends with fake snow.
Parent tip: Parents can't carry kids on the ice. Ask for the toddler double-blade skates for extra balance.
Official site
Is Rockefeller Center worth it with kids?
Is Rockefeller Center worth it with kids? It's a once-in-a-lifetime photo under the tree. But the rink is small and crowded, and new skaters spend most of the hour on the wall. If your kids can already skate, book an early weekday slot. If not, skate at Bryant Park or Wollman and walk over to see the tree.
| Rink | Season | Cost | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Rink at Rockefeller Center | Oct 10 - Mar 27 | From $22 a person. Skate rental costs extra. Same-day tickets cost more. | Timed tickets, book ahead. Same-day tickets are sold at the box office if any are left. |
| Winter Village at Bryant Park | Oct 28 - Jan 3 | Free entry. Free skating with your own skates. Skate rental from about $19. | Walk up for the shops. Reserve a skate slot online; free slots open one week ahead. |
| Wollman Rink | Oct 28 - Mar 16 | Adults $16-$40 by day and time. Kids 4-12 $12. Kids 3 and under free. Skates $12, skate helper $25. | Timed tickets online. Arrive up to 30 minutes early. |
Ice skating near me, by city
Pick your city to see every holiday rink near you this season, with dates, hours, prices and what's there for kids.
New YorkChicagoBostonWashington, DCNashvilleSeattleDenverSan DiegoSan FranciscoLos AngelesAtlantaHoustonSan AntonioGatlinburgPhiladelphiaPittsburghLas VegasOrlandoNew OrleansKansas CityDallasAustinPhoenixSt. LouisTampaCincinnati
Ice skating in New York
Winter Village at Bryant Park · The Rink at Rockefeller Center · Wollman Rink · Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Good for toddlersFree entryOutdoor
Winter Village at Bryant Park
Oct 28 - Jan 3 Bryant Park · Midtown Manhattan
Hours: Holiday shops daily to Jan 3: weekdays 11am-8pm, weekends 10am-8pm. Rink open to Feb 28.
Cost: Free entry. Free skating with your own skates. Skate rental from about $19.
Booking: Walk up for the shops. Reserve a skate slot online; free slots open one week ahead.
An outdoor holiday market of small shops sits around a free ice rink. It is easy to pair with the library or a walk to Rockefeller Center.
Parent tip: Skate sessions last about 50 minutes. Weekday mornings are usually the quietest.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Oct 10 - Mar 27 Rockefeller Plaza (enter on 49th St between Fifth and Sixth Aves from Nov 14) · Midtown Manhattan
Hours: Daily, 9am to midnight, in 60-minute sessions. Closed Dec 1-2 for the tree lighting.
Cost: From $22 a person. Skate rental costs extra. Same-day tickets cost more.
Booking: Timed tickets, book ahead. Same-day tickets are sold at the box office if any are left.
The famous rink sits right under the big Christmas tree. This is its 90th season, and a new skate house opens in mid-November.
Parent tip: Penguin skate helpers for little kids are rented at the rink and can't be booked ahead, so get there a bit early.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
Wollman Rink
Oct 28 - Mar 16 Wollman Rink, Central Park · Central Park, Manhattan
Hours: Daily from 10am. Closes 2:30pm Mon-Tue, 9pm Wed-Thu and Sun, 10pm Fri-Sat.
Cost: Adults $16-$40 by day and time. Kids 4-12 $12. Kids 3 and under free. Skates $12, skate helper $25.
Booking: Timed tickets online. Arrive up to 30 minutes early.
A big outdoor rink inside Central Park with the city skyline above the trees. Weekday mornings cost the least.
Parent tip: Kids under 16 need an adult 21 or older with them. One adult who isn't skating gets in free.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Nov 14 - Jan 31 Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, Brooklyn Bridge Park · DUMBO, Brooklyn
Hours: Mon-Thu 1:30-9:30pm, Fri 12:30-10pm, weekends 10:30am-10pm. Closed Thanksgiving.
Cost: NYC residents $16, plus $8 skates. Visitors $20, plus $12 skates. Helmets and skate helpers $5.
Booking: Buy timed tickets online. Walk up if there is space.
A small rink right under the Brooklyn Bridge, with the Manhattan skyline across the water. You get an hour on the ice.
Parent tip: Rent a skate helper and a helmet with your ticket. Both cost $5.
Official site
Ice skating in Chicago
Wintrust Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier · Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon · McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
- Good for toddlersIndoor
Wintrust Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Nov 27 - Jan 3 Festival Hall, Navy Pier · Streeterville
Hours: Daily from 10am. Closing time is 5pm, 8pm or 10pm depending on the day. Closed Christmas Day.
Cost: $27 online a day ahead, $32 at the door. Kids 2 and under free.
Booking: Buy online at least a day ahead to save $5
Navy Pier's Festival Hall turns into a big indoor holiday fair. Ice skating is included with every ticket.
Parent tip: Check the closing time for your date. Many December weekdays close at 5pm.
Official site - Outdoor
Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon
Nov 13 - Mar 7 Maggie Daley Park · The Loop (Grant Park)
Hours: Daily, in two-hour sessions. Session times change from Dec 11 to Jan 3.
Cost: Skate rental $17-23. Bring your own skates for $5.
Booking: Reserve a session online. Tickets come out in blocks ahead of time.
A skating path loops through the park like a ribbon, with tall buildings all around. Kids keep moving instead of going in circles on a rink.
Parent tip: Strollers aren't allowed on the ice, and you can't carry a child while you skate.
Official site - Free entryOutdoor
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Nov 20 - Jan 31 Millennium Park · The Loop
Hours: Daily, 11am-10:30pm, weather permitting
Cost: Free to skate. Skate rental costs extra.
Booking: Free reservations. The city will post them soon, so check before you go.
A free rink in Millennium Park, close to the Bean and the city's big Christmas tree.
Parent tip: Free lessons run Sat-Sun 9-10am. A parent has to register to go on the ice with their child.
Official site
Ice skating in Boston
Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture
- Good for toddlersFree entryIndoor
Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture
Nov 13 - Jan 1 Jordan's Furniture, 100 Stockwell Dr · Avon (south of Boston)
Hours: Daily. Mon-Thu 11am-7pm, Fri 11am-8pm, Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 11am-5pm (Dec 11am-6pm). Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Cost: Free to walk through. Rides and attractions need paid tickets.
Booking: Walk up. Buy tickets for the paid rides there or online.
A restored Victorian holiday village with moving figures, first shown in a downtown Boston department store. Paid extras include a tube slide, an indoor skating rink and a 4D Rudolph ride.
Parent tip: Shorter hours on Dec 24 (11am-3pm) and Dec 31 (10am-4pm). Skating needs a signed waiver.
Official site
Ice skating in Washington, DC
Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park · Sculpture Garden Ice Rink
- Good for toddlersOutdoor
Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park
Nov 20 - Dec 27 Nationals Park · Navy Yard, southeast DC
Hours: Nov 20-Dec 27; pick an entry time when you book
Cost: From $28; varies by date and time
Booking: Timed tickets, book ahead
The ballpark fills with light displays, a holiday market and a Santa visit. Ice skating is an add-on.
Parent tip: Kids under 5 must skate with a parent. Book an early slot for the cheapest prices and smallest crowds.
Official site - Outdoor
Sculpture Garden Ice Rink
Nov 23 - Mar 7 National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, Constitution Ave between 7th and 9th Sts NW · National Mall
Hours: Sun-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm. Sessions start every hour. Closed Dec 25 and Jan 1.
Cost: $15 for ages 13 and up. $12 for kids 12 and under. Skates $7. Lockers free.
Booking: Check nga.gov/icerink for tickets. Lessons need sign-up.
You skate around a fountain in the middle of a garden full of giant artworks on the National Mall. One ticket covers two short sessions in a row.
Parent tip: The rink closes in heavy rain or snow. Check the rink line, 202-216-9397, before you go.
Official site
Ice skating in Nashville
The Rink Under the Giant Guitar · Holidays at Nashville Yards (Rink Under Broad)
- Free entryOutdoor
The Rink Under the Giant Guitar
Nov 20 - Jan 18 Under the Giant Guitar sign, Wedgewood Houston · Wedgewood-Houston
Hours: Daily 4-8pm. Longer hours Dec 21-28 (noon-10pm). Christmas Eve noon-4pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Cost: Free to skate. Skate rental $10.
Booking: Walk up. Free timed tickets are handed out in person, first come, first served.
A new outdoor ice rink sits under a giant guitar sign south of downtown. Sessions last 45 minutes, and there's hot chocolate nearby.
Parent tip: Kids under 7 need an adult with them. Tickets are first come, first served, so arrive close to opening.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
Holidays at Nashville Yards (Rink Under Broad)
Nov 21 - Jan 3 Nashville Yards, 21 Platform Way S. · Downtown
Hours: Nov 21-Jan 3. The rink is open all season. Check the site for daily hours.
Cost: Skating is ticketed (prices not posted yet). Santa photos are free.
Booking: Buy skating tickets online once they go on sale
Nashville Yards runs a real-ice skating rink, the Rink Under Broad, for the season. There are also free Santa photos and free holiday movie nights.
Parent tip: The Santa photo and movie dates aren't posted yet. Check the site before you plan around them.
Official site
Ice skating in Seattle
Holiday Ice Rink in Occidental Square · Holiday Magic at the Washington State Fair Event Center · Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink
- Outdoor
Holiday Ice Rink in Occidental Square
Dec 12-20 Occidental Square · Pioneer Square, downtown Seattle
Hours: Daily Dec 12-20, noon-6pm.
Cost: Not posted yet. Check the official site.
Booking: Check the official site closer to the date.
A pop-up outdoor ice rink downtown for nine days in December. Hours are noon to 6pm each day.
Parent tip: Bring gloves and a warm hat. The rink is outdoors.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
Holiday Magic at the Washington State Fair Event Center
Dec 4-23 Washington State Fair Event Center, 110 9th Ave SW · Puyallup, south of Seattle
Hours: Dec 4-6, Dec 11-13 and Dec 18-23 (12 days).
Cost: Tickets by date. See the official site for prices.
Booking: Buy dated tickets online. Popular dates fill up.
Light displays, kid rides, an ice rink and a holiday market at the fairgrounds. The rides, including a holiday train ride, come with admission.
Parent tip: Book early for weekend dates. The busiest nights fill up first.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink
Nov 13 - Jan 18 Bellevue Downtown Park, NE 1st St and 100th Ave NE · Downtown Bellevue (Eastside)
Hours: Daily, including Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day
Cost: $16 Tue-Thu, $22 Fri-Sun, $24 Dec 18-Jan 3, $12 on most Mondays. Skates included.
Booking: Timed tickets, book ahead. Few walk-up spots.
A big real-ice rink under a roof in a downtown park, next to a playground. You get 75 minutes on the ice.
Parent tip: Rental skates start at toddler size 8. Kids under 12 need an adult on the ice, and you can't carry a toddler while you skate.
Official site
Ice skating in Denver
McGregor Skate · The Rink at Belmar
- Outdoor
McGregor Skate
Nov 27 - Jan 25 McGregor Square Plaza · LoDo, by Coors Field
Hours: Until Jan 4: Mon-Thu noon-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun noon-6pm. Closed Dec 24-25.
Cost: With rental: adults $15, kids $9. Own skates: $6. Under 2 free.
Booking: Reserve online or walk up.
An outdoor rink in a LoDo plaza, open most of the winter. Skate rental is on site.
Parent tip: There are no skate trainers to borrow, so plan to hold little ones' hands.
Official site - Outdoor
The Rink at Belmar
Nov 20 - Jan 31 The Plaza at Belmar · Lakewood (west of Denver)
Hours: To Jan 3: weekdays from 4pm, weekends from noon. Jan 4-31: Fri-Sun only. Closed Christmas Day.
Cost: Adults $12, kids 12 and under $10, skates included. $8 with your own skates. Seniors 65+ free.
Booking: Walk up, or buy online. Online tickets don't skip the line.
A low-cost outdoor rink in an outdoor shopping district, with an hour of skating per ticket.
Parent tip: Bring a photo ID. An adult needs one to rent skates, and student IDs don't count.
Official site
Ice skating in San Diego
Skating by the Sea at Hotel del Coronado · Rady Children's Ice Rink at Liberty Station · Holidays at The Grand: skating and Santa
- Good for toddlersOutdoor
Skating by the Sea at Hotel del Coronado
Nov 20 - Jan 3 Hotel del Coronado · Coronado
Hours: Daily, Nov 20-Jan 3. Hours vary; most days 10am-10pm.
Cost: $35-45 per skater, skate rental included
Booking: Book a skate session ahead
An outdoor ice rink sits on the beach side of the historic hotel. The resort also runs a holiday light show that ends with fake snow.
Parent tip: Parents can't carry kids on the ice. Ask for the toddler double-blade skates for extra balance.
Official site - Outdoor
Rady Children's Ice Rink at Liberty Station
Nov 19 - Jan 3 Liberty Station · Point Loma
Hours: Daily, Nov 19-Jan 3. Sessions 10am-5pm, 5:30-7:30pm and 8-10pm; shorter hours on holidays.
Cost: $25 adults, $15 kids 12 and under; skates and helmets included
Booking: Buy online or at the window; everyone signs a waiver
An outdoor holiday ice rink with skate and helmet rental in the price. Kids under 6 must skate with an adult.
Parent tip: Weekends can mean waits of over an hour. Go on a weekday, and sign the waiver online before you arrive.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
Holidays at The Grand: skating and Santa
Nov 26 - Jan 3 Fairmont Grand Del Mar · Carmel Valley, North County
Hours: Skating Nov 26-30, Dec 4-6, Dec 11-13 and Dec 18-Jan 3, mostly 5-9pm. Santa on select dates Nov 27-Dec 24.
Cost: Skating $45 adults, $25 kids for one hour with skates; see the official site for other events
Booking: Reserve ahead
The resort sets up a synthetic-ice skating rink and a spot to meet Santa on weekends. Brunch with Santa runs on select weekend days.
Parent tip: Santa is there Friday to Sunday evenings, and daily Dec 21-24. Pair a short skate with a Santa visit for little ones.
Official site
Ice skating in San Francisco
Union Square Holiday Ice Rink · San Francisco On Ice at Fisherman's Wharf · Walnut Creek on Ice
- Good for toddlersOutdoor
Union Square Holiday Ice Rink
Nov 4 - Jan 18 Union Square · Union Square, downtown
Hours: Daily, 10am-11pm. Closes at 9:30pm on Dec 31. Opens Nov 4.
Cost: $22, kids 8 and under $17. Skates included.
Booking: Timed 60-minute sessions. Buy online ahead.
An outdoor rink right in the middle of downtown. Sessions last an hour, so it fits between other plans.
Parent tip: Small kids can rent a $6 skate helper. They go first come, first served, so arrive early on weekends.
Official site - Outdoor
San Francisco On Ice at Fisherman's Wharf
Nov 4 - Jan 18 Next to the SkyStar Wheel · Fisherman's Wharf
Hours: Daily. Hours vary by day, from 10am or noon.
Cost: $19-$23 (plus fees). Skates included.
Booking: Timed 75-minute sessions. Book online.
A new outdoor rink on the waterfront for 2026. Skate buddies for beginners cost $15 a session.
Parent tip: Reserve a skate buddy online on busy days. Bring socks, since rental skates need them.
Official site - Outdoor
Walnut Creek on Ice
Nov 20 - Jan 18 Civic Park · Downtown Walnut Creek, East Bay
Hours: Daily. Hours change by day, from 10am or 4pm. Check the calendar for closures.
Cost: $20 per 90-minute skate session. Ice slide $20.
Booking: Buy online or on site. Cards and phone pay only, no cash.
An outdoor rink in a downtown park, with an ice slide next to it. Sessions last 90 minutes.
Parent tip: Skate and glider rentals are first come, first served. Go early on weekends.
Official site
Ice skating in Los Angeles
L.A. Zoo Lights · Enchant Christmas at Santa Anita Park · Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square · LA Kings Holiday Ice Festival at L.A. LIVE
- Good for toddlersOutdoor
L.A. Zoo Lights
Nov 20 - Jan 10 Los Angeles Zoo · Griffith Park
Hours: Select nights. Box office 5:45-8:45pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Dec 24, 25 and 31, and some Mon-Tue nights.
Cost: Adults $29-$35, kids 2-12 $19-$25 by date. Under 2 free. Santa photos cost extra.
Booking: Timed tickets. Buy online ahead, especially for weekends.
An evening walk through the zoo past large glowing animal lanterns and light displays. Santa is there on many nights, and there is a small skating rink.
Parent tip: Value weeknights in early December cost less. A stroller helps, since most families take 60-90 minutes.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
Enchant Christmas at Santa Anita Park
Nov 20 - Dec 27 Santa Anita Park · Arcadia (San Gabriel Valley)
Hours: Evenings on select dates. Each ticket has an arrival window.
Cost: From about $29; price changes by date and time. Skating and rides cost extra.
Booking: Timed tickets, book ahead. Add-ons can sell out.
A large Christmas light maze with a holiday village, food, music and Santa visits. Skating, a snow slide and small rides are extra.
Parent tip: Choose an early arrival window with little kids. Decide on add-ons before you go to keep the cost down.
Official site - Outdoor
Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square
Nov 12 - Jan 3 Pershing Square · Downtown LA
Hours: Open daily. Check the site for session times.
Cost: 2026 prices not posted yet. Last season was $22 with skate rental.
Booking: Timed sessions. Buy online.
An outdoor ice rink in a downtown park, ringed by tall buildings. Sessions are about an hour.
Parent tip: Skate helpers were offered for beginners last season. The Pershing Square Metro stop is right by the rink.
Official site - Outdoor
LA Kings Holiday Ice Festival at L.A. LIVE
Nov 27 - Jan 3 L.A. LIVE, 800 W Olympic Blvd · Downtown LA
Hours: Skating 5pm-12:30am to Dec 18, then 3pm-12:30am. Holiday village closes at 10pm.
Cost: Paid. Skate rental is included. Kids under 2 don't need a ticket.
Booking: Timed 90-minute sessions, book ahead online
A big outdoor rink downtown with a holiday village of small shops and Santa every day.
Parent tip: Go early in the evening before the after-dinner crowd. From Dec 19, skating starts at 3pm.
Official site
Ice skating in Atlanta
Sparkle Sandy Springs
- Good for toddlersOutdoor
Sparkle Sandy Springs
Dec 6 City Springs District · Sandy Springs
Hours: Sun Dec 6, evening. Times are posted closer to the date.
Cost: No ticket price listed. See the official site.
Booking: No booking listed
A nighttime parade with floats, bands and lights, then a tree and menorah lighting. There's skating, carolers and a holiday market too.
Parent tip: The tree stays lit until New Year's Day, so you can come back on a quieter night.
Official site
Ice skating in Houston
Holiday in the Gardens at Moody Gardens · The Woodlands Ice Rink
- Good for toddlersIndoor and outdoor
Holiday in the Gardens at Moody Gardens
Nov 21 - Jan 2 Moody Gardens, 1 Hope Blvd., Galveston · Galveston (about an hour south of Houston)
Hours: Nightly 6-10pm, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Cost: Lights trail from $24 (includes rink entry, skate rental extra). Holiday Pass from $55. Free parking.
Booking: Buy online. ICE LAND uses timed entry, so book that slot first.
A mile-long light trail, an indoor ice-sculpture hall called ICE LAND, an ice rink and a kiddie train. It makes a full evening on the island.
Parent tip: ICE LAND is kept at 9 degrees, so bring real jackets. Sunday-Thursday value nights (Nov 30-Dec 17) cost less.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
The Woodlands Ice Rink
Nov 20 - Jan 18 The Ice Rink, 2005 Lake Robbins Dr. · The Woodlands
Hours: Daily two-hour sessions. Longer hours on school breaks. Short hours on Christmas Day.
Cost: $16 ages 6+, $8 ages 5 and under. Skate rental included.
Booking: Buy a session ticket ahead
An outdoor rink by the Waterway with a smaller beginner rink and toddler-size skates. Spectators watch for free.
Parent tip: Skating walkers and helmets rent for $10 each, so little ones can try without falling every few steps.
Official site
Ice skating in San Antonio
Christmas at the Caverns · Ice Skating at Holidays at The Rock
- Good for toddlersIndoor and outdoor
Christmas at the Caverns
Dec 5-23 Natural Bridge Caverns, 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd. · Northeast, toward New Braunfels
Hours: Dec 5-23. Check the park site for hours.
Cost: Ticketed. See the official site for prices. Buying online costs less.
Booking: Buy online ahead. Caroling cave tours sell out.
Above ground there's a light trail, a maze, games and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. You can add a caroling tour down in the caverns.
Parent tip: Book the cave caroling tour early, since it sells out. Kids 3-11 skate free with any Christmas ticket.
Official site - Outdoor
Ice Skating at Holidays at The Rock
Nov 21 - Jan 3 Frost Plaza, The Rock at La Cantera · Northwest, off I-10 and Loop 1604
Hours: Thanksgiving week 4-10pm, closed Thanksgiving Day. Dec 1-18 Thu-Sun 4-10pm. Dec 19-Jan 3 daily 11am-10pm. Closed New Year's Eve.
Cost: Ticketed. See the official site for prices.
Booking: Buy online ahead. Walk-ups are rare. Everyone signs a waiver.
An outdoor ice rink under string lights, open for about six weeks. Rent skates there or bring your own.
Parent tip: Kids 12 and under need an adult on site, and kids 7 and under need an adult skating with them.
Official site
Ice skating in Gatlinburg
Outdoor Ice Rink at Wilderness at the Smokies
- Outdoor
Outdoor Ice Rink at Wilderness at the Smokies
Nov 6 - Jan 10 Wilderness at the Smokies resort · Sevierville
Hours: Nov 6, 2026 to Jan 10, 2027. Closed Nov 9-12 and Jan 4-7.
Cost: Ticketed for the public, with skate rental included. Some resort guests skate free. See the official site for prices.
Booking: Complete the online waiver before you go
An outdoor ice rink at a waterpark resort, open to the public during the holidays. Skate rental comes with your ticket.
Parent tip: Print and fill out the waiver at home to save time at the rink.
Official site
Ice skating in Philadelphia
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest · Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and Wintergarden at Dilworth Park
- Good for toddlersFree entryOutdoor
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Nov 27 - Feb 28 Penn's Landing, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd. · Delaware River Waterfront
Hours: Daily, including holidays. See the official site for hours.
Cost: Free to enter. Skating $5, skate rental $12.
Booking: Skating spots are limited. Reserve ahead.
A winter park on the river with an outdoor skating rink, fire pits and lights. You can visit without skating.
Parent tip: Non-skaters can still enjoy the lights and fire pits. Book weekend skating times early.
Official site - Good for toddlersOutdoor
Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and Wintergarden at Dilworth Park
Nov 13 - Feb 21 Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th St. · Center City (beside City Hall)
Hours: Daily. Timed 90-minute skating sessions. Wintergarden open through March 28.
Cost: See the official site for skating prices.
Booking: Reservations encouraged. Buy skating tickets online ahead.
An outdoor rink next to City Hall with 90-minute skating sessions. The Wintergarden beside it has lights and room for little ones to wander.
Parent tip: Christmas Village is across the street, so you can skate and shop in one trip.
Official site
Ice skating in Pittsburgh
The UPMC Rink at PPG Place · Skate with Santa at Schenley Park Skating Rink
- Outdoor
The UPMC Rink at PPG Place
Nov 13 - Feb 28 PPG Place · Downtown
Hours: Daily. Nov 13-Dec 18: Sun-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm. Dec 19-Jan 2: 10am-11pm.
Cost: Adults $8-12, kids 12 and under $8-11. Skate rental $4-6.
Booking: Buy session tickets online
Downtown's outdoor rink wraps around a big Christmas tree at PPG Place. Santa skates with families on some December Sundays.
Parent tip: Skate with Santa runs Sundays Dec 6, 13 and 20, 1-3pm. From Jan 5, one child skates free with a paid adult on Tuesdays.
Official site - Outdoor
Skate with Santa at Schenley Park Skating Rink
Dec 13 Schenley Park Skating Rink · Oakland (Schenley Park)
Hours: Sun Dec 13, 1:30-3pm.
Cost: Adults $6, youth 17 and under $3. Skate rental $3.
Booking: Buy session tickets online. Sessions cap at 300 people.
Santa joins the Sunday afternoon session at the city's outdoor rink in Schenley Park.
Parent tip: Skate aids are first come, first served. Non-skating adults still pay admission.
Official site
Ice skating in Las Vegas
Enchant Las Vegas · Oasis Ice Rink at Fontainebleau Las Vegas
- Good for toddlersOutdoor
Enchant Las Vegas
Nov 20 - Dec 27 Las Vegas Ballpark · Summerlin
Hours: Nov 20-Dec 27. Check the official site for nightly hours.
Cost: From $27. Prices change by date, entry time and demand. Skating costs extra.
Booking: Buy timed tickets online
A large holiday light maze and village set up at the minor-league ballpark. A visit with Santa for photos comes with general admission.
Parent tip: Kids under 5 must skate with an adult. Plan a couple of hours, and expect a wait for skates on busy nights.
Official site - Outdoor
Oasis Ice Rink at Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Nov 19 - Jan 4 Fontainebleau Las Vegas, third-floor pool deck · North Strip
Hours: Nov 19-Jan 4. Weekdays mostly 5-11pm, weekends from 2pm. Longer hours on holiday weeks.
Cost: Free to visit the rink deck. Skating from $30 plus taxes and fees.
Booking: Reserve skate rentals online
The resort turns its rooftop pool deck into a real-ice rink for the holidays. You'll also find fire pits, photo spots and holiday movies.
Parent tip: Go in the afternoon or early evening. Late sessions run past midnight and draw an adult crowd.
Official site
Ice skating in Orlando
Now Snowing in Celebration
- Good for toddlersFree entryOutdoor
Now Snowing in Celebration
Nov 28 - Dec 31 Celebration Town Center · Celebration (near Disney)
Hours: Nightly from 5:30pm, Nov 28-Dec 31. Santa photos through Dec 24.
Cost: Free to attend. Skating $15 for 30 minutes. Wagon rides $7, train rides $10.
Booking: Walk up
The small town of Celebration makes fake snow fall downtown every night. Add skating, wagon and train rides, and Santa photos.
Parent tip: Public parking in town is free.
Official site
Ice skating in New Orleans
NOLA ChristmasFest
- Good for toddlersIndoor
NOLA ChristmasFest
Dec 23 - Jan 2 Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Halls G-I, 900 Convention Center Blvd. · Warehouse District
Hours: Most days two sessions, 11am-3:30pm and 4:30-9pm. Dec 24 and Dec 31 morning only. Dec 25 and Jan 1, 1-5pm.
Cost: $25 weekdays, $30 weekends, plus fees. A ticket is needed for ages 2 and up.
Booking: Buy a timed session online. Cards only, no cash.
An indoor winter fair with an ice rink, rides and holiday shows. Skate rental is included, with sizes small enough for 2-year-olds.
Parent tip: Bring socks, since you need them to put on skates. Strollers are allowed. Parking in Lot F is $23 through the ParkMobile app.
Official site
Ice skating in Kansas City
Crown Center Ice Terrace
- Good for toddlersOutdoor
Crown Center Ice Terrace
Nov 6 - Mar 14 Crown Center Square · Crown Center
Hours: Nov-Jan: Sun-Thu 10am-9pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Thanksgiving 3-10pm. Dec 24 and Dec 31 10am-6pm. Closed Christmas Day.
Cost: $10 for ages 4 and up. Under 4 free with a paid adult. Skate rental $6.
Booking: No advance booking mentioned
An outdoor rink in the middle of Crown Center, open all winter. Opening day, Fri Nov 6, has free skating with free coffee and hot chocolate from 6 to 9am.
Parent tip: Hours can change with the weather, so check the day's hours before you go.
Official site
Ice skating in Dallas
Christmas in the Square · CultureMap City Rink
- Good for toddlersFree entryOutdoor
Christmas in the Square
Nov 20 - Jan 4 Frisco Square, Main St. and Coleman Blvd. · Frisco
Hours: Light show nightly 6-10pm
Cost: Light show free. Skating, Santa visits and carriage rides cost extra.
Booking: Walk up for the light show
A free light show set to music in Frisco's town square. There's also an outdoor ice rink, Santa visits and horse carriage rides.
Parent tip: Tune your car radio to 107.3 FM to hear the music if you're watching from your car.
Official site - Outdoor
CultureMap City Rink
Nov 20 - Jan 5 Main Street Garden, 1902 Main St. · Downtown Dallas
Hours: Weekdays 4-10pm, Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 10am-8pm. Open from 10am on school holidays.
Cost: $18 plus fees, skates included. Half price on some Mondays.
Booking: Buy a time slot online, or walk up if there is space
A holiday rink in a downtown park, with a rinkside BBQ cafe and a tree lighting on Nov 21. You get 75 minutes on the ice.
Parent tip: Go on a half-price Monday (Nov 30, Dec 7 or Dec 14) to save the most.
Official site
Ice skating in Austin
Bee Cave on Ice
- Outdoor
Bee Cave on Ice
Nov 13 - Jan 18 Behind Bee Cave City Hall, 4000 Galleria Pkwy. · Bee Cave (west of Austin)
Hours: Mon-Thu 3-9pm, Fri noon-10pm, Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 10am-7pm. Longer hours on school holidays.
Cost: $16 plus tax for 50 minutes, skates included. $11 on Tuesday community nights (Nov 17, Dec 1, 8, 15, Jan 12).
Booking: Book a session online
A seasonal outdoor ice rink at the Hill Country Galleria shopping center.
Parent tip: Sessions are 50 minutes, which is about right for young skaters.
Official site
Ice skating in Phoenix
Christmas at the Princess · Jingle at JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge
- Good for toddlersOutdoor
Christmas at the Princess
Nov 20 - Jan 2 Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E. Princess Dr. · North Scottsdale
Hours: Nightly. Mon-Thu 5-10pm, Fri-Sun 4-11pm. From Dec 17, daily 4-11pm.
Cost: Ticketed. See the official site for tickets and parking.
Booking: Buy tickets before you arrive.
The resort grounds fill with lights, a giant Ferris wheel, rides, an outdoor ice rink, s'mores and Santa photos.
Parent tip: Rides have height minimums from 36 to 54 inches. The rink has double-bladed skates that strap over kids' shoes. Santa leaves after Christmas Eve.
Official site - Good for toddlersIndoor and outdoor
Jingle at JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge
Nov 18 - Jan 3 JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa · Desert Ridge (north Phoenix)
Hours: Nov 18-Jan 3. Check the official site for hours.
Cost: See the official site.
Booking: Ticketed activities. Book ahead.
The resort's holiday festival has lights, ice skating and ice!, a walk-through of giant ice carvings of scenes from the movie Elf.
Parent tip: The ice! carvings are made from 2 million pounds of real ice, so bring jackets for everyone even on a warm night.
Official site
Ice skating in St. Louis
Winterfest at Kiener Plaza
- Good for toddlersFree entryOutdoor
Winterfest at Kiener Plaza
Nov 21 - Jan 3 Kiener Plaza, 500 Chestnut St. · Downtown, by the Gateway Arch
Hours: Thu-Fri 4-8pm, Sat-Sun noon-8pm. Daily noon-8pm Dec 26-Jan 3. Closed Dec 25. Closed to the public Mon-Wed, Nov 23-Dec 23.
Cost: Free to attend. Skating is free with your own skates. Rentals $15 adults, $10 ages 3-15.
Booking: Skating reservations are strongly encouraged.
A downtown outdoor ice rink with s'mores stations and lights, open for seven weeks.
Parent tip: Kids 3-15 skate free every Friday. Heated igloos can be booked, but they don't allow outside food or drinks.
Official site
Ice skating in Tampa
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
- Good for toddlersFree entryOutdoor
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
Nov 20 - Jan 3 Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N. Ashley Dr. · Downtown Tampa
Hours: Nov 20-Jan 3. Check the official site for rink hours.
Cost: Free to walk in. Skating $17, or $15 for kids under 12, with skate rental and 75 minutes on the ice.
Booking: Book skating times online ahead, or with the QR codes on site.
A real outdoor ice rink in a riverfront park downtown. Walking around the village is free, and there are family events on select days.
Parent tip: Holiday characters visit on select Sundays from 1-4pm. Check the official site for which Sundays.
Official site
Ice skating in Cincinnati
UC Health Ice Rink at Elm Street Plaza
- Good for toddlersOutdoor
UC Health Ice Rink at Elm Street Plaza
Nov 7 - Feb 21 Elm Street Plaza, 150 W. Fifth St. · Downtown
Hours: Opens Nov 7. Daily 9am-11pm Dec 18-Jan 3. Other weeks: Mon-Wed 3-8pm, Thu-Fri 3-10pm, Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 9am-8pm. Last tickets 1 hour before close.
Cost: $12 a person, skates included. Kids 5 and under skate free with a paying adult.
Booking: Walk up. Card or phone payment only.
Downtown's outdoor rink, which moved here from Fountain Square, is open for the winter. Skates come with your ticket.
Parent tip: Push-along skate helpers for kids are free, first come, first served. Kids under 55 inches must have an adult on the ice with them.
Official site
Free outdoor ice skating
A few city rinks let you skate for free. Skate rental, skate helpers and lockers still cost extra, so bring your own skates if you have them.
- Winter Village at Bryant ParkNew York · Oct 28 - Jan 3Free entry. Free skating with your own skates. Skate rental from about $19.
- McCormick Tribune Ice RinkChicago · Nov 20 - Jan 31Free to skate. Skate rental costs extra.
- The Rink Under the Giant GuitarNashville · Nov 20 - Jan 18Free to skate. Skate rental $10.
- Winterfest at Kiener PlazaSt. Louis · Nov 21 - Jan 3Free to attend. Skating is free with your own skates. Rentals $15 adults, $10 ages 3-15.
More free holiday fun: free Christmas events and parades near you.
Outdoor ice skating in warm places
You don't need snow to skate outside. These holiday rinks are in warm-weather cities, so you can skate in the afternoon and eat ice cream after. Check the official site if real ice matters to you.
- Skating by the Sea at Hotel del CoronadoSan Diego · Nov 20 - Jan 3$35-45 per skater, skate rental included
- Rady Children's Ice Rink at Liberty StationSan Diego · Nov 19 - Jan 3$25 adults, $15 kids 12 and under; skates and helmets included
- Holidays at The Grand: skating and SantaSan Diego · Nov 26 - Jan 3Skating $45 adults, $25 kids for one hour with skates; see the official site for other events
- L.A. Zoo LightsLos Angeles · Nov 20 - Jan 10Adults $29-$35, kids 2-12 $19-$25 by date. Under 2 free. Santa photos cost extra.
- Enchant Christmas at Santa Anita ParkLos Angeles · Nov 20 - Dec 27From about $29; price changes by date and time. Skating and rides cost extra.
- Holiday Ice Rink Pershing SquareLos Angeles · Nov 12 - Jan 32026 prices not posted yet. Last season was $22 with skate rental.
- LA Kings Holiday Ice Festival at L.A. LIVELos Angeles · Nov 27 - Jan 3Paid. Skate rental is included. Kids under 2 don't need a ticket.
- Holiday in the Gardens at Moody GardensHouston · Nov 21 - Jan 2Lights trail from $24 (includes rink entry, skate rental extra). Holiday Pass from $55. Free parking.
- The Woodlands Ice RinkHouston · Nov 20 - Jan 18$16 ages 6+, $8 ages 5 and under. Skate rental included.
- Christmas at the CavernsSan Antonio · Dec 5-23Ticketed. See the official site for prices. Buying online costs less.
- Ice Skating at Holidays at The RockSan Antonio · Nov 21 - Jan 3Ticketed. See the official site for prices.
- Enchant Las VegasLas Vegas · Nov 20 - Dec 27From $27. Prices change by date, entry time and demand. Skating costs extra.
- Oasis Ice Rink at Fontainebleau Las VegasLas Vegas · Nov 19 - Jan 4Free to visit the rink deck. Skating from $30 plus taxes and fees.
- Now Snowing in CelebrationOrlando · Nov 28 - Dec 31Free to attend. Skating $15 for 30 minutes. Wagon rides $7, train rides $10.
- NOLA ChristmasFestNew Orleans · Dec 23 - Jan 2$25 weekdays, $30 weekends, plus fees. A ticket is needed for ages 2 and up.
- Christmas in the SquareDallas · Nov 20 - Jan 4Light show free. Skating, Santa visits and carriage rides cost extra.
- CultureMap City RinkDallas · Nov 20 - Jan 5$18 plus fees, skates included. Half price on some Mondays.
- Bee Cave on IceAustin · Nov 13 - Jan 18$16 plus tax for 50 minutes, skates included. $11 on Tuesday community nights (Nov 17, Dec 1, 8, 15, Jan 12).
- Christmas at the PrincessPhoenix · Nov 20 - Jan 2Ticketed. See the official site for tickets and parking.
- Jingle at JW Marriott Phoenix Desert RidgePhoenix · Nov 18 - Jan 3See the official site.
- Winter Village at Curtis Hixon ParkTampa · Nov 20 - Jan 3Free to walk in. Skating $17, or $15 for kids under 12, with skate rental and 75 minutes on the ice.
Ice skating with toddlers and young kids
Most kids can try skating from about age 2 or 3, but at that age it's mostly standing, sliding and being held. Many parents wait for lessons until about age 4. A public skate session is a gentle way to start.
- Ask for a skate helper at the rental desk. Small kids push it like a walker, and many rinks rent them out on site.
- Bring a helmet. Many rinks don't rent them, and a bike helmet works fine for a first skate.
- Hold your child's hands from behind or beside them, not by pulling. Let them stand, march and glide a little.
- Practice standing and marching in skates on a carpet at home before you go.
- Know the rules first. At many rinks a parent can't carry a child on the ice, and strollers stay off the ice.
- Stop while it's still fun. For kids under 5, 20 to 30 minutes on the ice is plenty.
Rinks with perks for small kids
These rinks offer free skating for little ones, skate helpers or toddler-size skates.
- Wollman RinkNew York · Oct 28 - Mar 16Kids 3 and under skate free. Skate helpers rent for $25.
- Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge ParkNew York · Nov 14 - Jan 31Helmets and skate helpers are $5 each.
- UC Health Ice Rink at Elm Street PlazaCincinnati · Nov 7 - Feb 21Kids 5 and under skate free with a paying adult. Push-along skate helpers are free.
- Crown Center Ice TerraceKansas City · Nov 6 - Mar 14Kids under 4 skate free with a paying adult.
- The Woodlands Ice RinkHouston · Nov 20 - Jan 18A smaller beginner rink and toddler-size skates. Kids 5 and under pay $8.
- Winterfest at Kiener PlazaSt. Louis · Nov 21 - Jan 3Kids 3-15 skate free every Friday.
- Union Square Holiday Ice RinkSan Francisco · Nov 4 - Jan 18Kids 8 and under pay less, and skate helpers rent for $6.
- Bellevue Downtown Ice RinkSeattle · Nov 13 - Jan 18Rental skates start at toddler size 8.
- Skating by the Sea at Hotel del CoronadoSan Diego · Nov 20 - Jan 3Ask for toddler double-blade skates for extra balance.
- McGregor SkateDenver · Nov 27 - Jan 25Kids under 2 skate free.
What to wear ice skating with kids
- Waterproof or snow pants. Little skaters sit on the ice a lot, and jeans get cold and wet.
- Real gloves, plus a spare pair. Wet gloves end the fun fast.
- Thin layers under a warm coat, so kids can take one off as they warm up.
- A helmet and a hat that fits under it.
- A change of clothes in the car for the ride home.
How much does ice skating cost?
Prices vary a lot. A few city rinks are free if you bring skates. Most holiday rinks on this page cost about $10 to $25 a skater, often with skates included. The most famous rinks, and resort rinks, cost more, and prices go up on weekends and holiday weeks.
Tips for a better skate
- Book a time slot at the big rinks. Weekday mornings and the first slot of the day are the calmest.
- Go before dinner. Late evening sessions get crowded and draw more adults.
- Check the weather. Outdoor rinks can close for heavy rain, snow or storms, so check the day's hours.
- Rental skates can rub. Bring your own skates if your kids have them, and lace them snug.
- Plan the after-skate treat. Hot cocoa nearby makes the cold part worth it.
Find an ice rink near you
50 events
- Christmas marketsIce skatingFree Good for toddlers
Winter Village at Bryant Park
- Dates
- Oct 28 - Jan 3 · Holiday shops daily to Jan 3: weekdays 11am-8pm, weekends 10am-8pm. Rink open to Feb 28.
- Where
- Bryant Park, Midtown Manhattan (New York)
- Price
- Free entry. Free skating with your own skates. Skate rental from about $19.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up for the shops. Reserve a skate slot online; free slots open one week ahead.
An outdoor holiday market of small shops sits around a free ice rink. It is easy to pair with the library or a walk to Rockefeller Center.
Parent tip: Skate sessions last about 50 minutes. Weekday mornings are usually the quietest.
- Ice skating Good for toddlers
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
- Dates
- Oct 10 - Mar 27 · Daily, 9am to midnight, in 60-minute sessions. Closed Dec 1-2 for the tree lighting.
- Where
- Rockefeller Plaza (enter on 49th St between Fifth and Sixth Aves from Nov 14), Midtown Manhattan (New York)
- Price
- From $22 a person. Skate rental costs extra. Same-day tickets cost more.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Timed tickets, book ahead. Same-day tickets are sold at the box office if any are left.
The famous rink sits right under the big Christmas tree. This is its 90th season, and a new skate house opens in mid-November.
Parent tip: Penguin skate helpers for little kids are rented at the rink and can't be booked ahead, so get there a bit early.
- Ice skating Good for toddlers
Wollman Rink
- Dates
- Oct 28 - Mar 16 · Daily from 10am. Closes 2:30pm Mon-Tue, 9pm Wed-Thu and Sun, 10pm Fri-Sat.
- Where
- Wollman Rink, Central Park, Central Park, Manhattan (New York)
- Price
- Adults $16-$40 by day and time. Kids 4-12 $12. Kids 3 and under free. Skates $12, skate helper $25.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Timed tickets online. Arrive up to 30 minutes early.
A big outdoor rink inside Central Park with the city skyline above the trees. Weekday mornings cost the least.
Parent tip: Kids under 16 need an adult 21 or older with them. One adult who isn't skating gets in free.
- Ice skating Good for toddlers
Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Dates
- Nov 14 - Jan 31 · Mon-Thu 1:30-9:30pm, Fri 12:30-10pm, weekends 10:30am-10pm. Closed Thanksgiving.
- Where
- Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, Brooklyn Bridge Park, DUMBO, Brooklyn (New York)
- Price
- NYC residents $16, plus $8 skates. Visitors $20, plus $12 skates. Helmets and skate helpers $5.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy timed tickets online. Walk up if there is space.
A small rink right under the Brooklyn Bridge, with the Manhattan skyline across the water. You get an hour on the ice.
Parent tip: Rent a skate helper and a helmet with your ticket. Both cost $5.
- Holiday festivalsIce skating Good for toddlers
Wintrust Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Jan 3 · Daily from 10am. Closing time is 5pm, 8pm or 10pm depending on the day. Closed Christmas Day.
- Where
- Festival Hall, Navy Pier, Streeterville (Chicago)
- Price
- $27 online a day ahead, $32 at the door. Kids 2 and under free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy online at least a day ahead to save $5
Navy Pier's Festival Hall turns into a big indoor holiday fair. Ice skating is included with every ticket.
Parent tip: Check the closing time for your date. Many December weekdays close at 5pm.
- Ice skating
Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Mar 7 · Daily, in two-hour sessions. Session times change from Dec 11 to Jan 3.
- Where
- Maggie Daley Park, The Loop (Grant Park) (Chicago)
- Price
- Skate rental $17-23. Bring your own skates for $5.
- Ages and booking
- Kids old enough to skate on their own · Reserve a session online. Tickets come out in blocks ahead of time.
A skating path loops through the park like a ribbon, with tall buildings all around. Kids keep moving instead of going in circles on a rink.
Parent tip: Strollers aren't allowed on the ice, and you can't carry a child while you skate.
- Ice skatingFree
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 31 · Daily, 11am-10:30pm, weather permitting
- Where
- Millennium Park, The Loop (Chicago)
- Price
- Free to skate. Skate rental costs extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Free reservations. The city will post them soon, so check before you go.
A free rink in Millennium Park, close to the Bean and the city's big Christmas tree.
Parent tip: Free lessons run Sat-Sun 9-10am. A parent has to register to go on the ice with their child.
- Christmas lightsSanta visitsIce skatingFree Good for toddlers
Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Jan 1 · Daily. Mon-Thu 11am-7pm, Fri 11am-8pm, Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 11am-5pm (Dec 11am-6pm). Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Where
- Jordan's Furniture, 100 Stockwell Dr, Avon (south of Boston) (Boston)
- Price
- Free to walk through. Rides and attractions need paid tickets.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. Buy tickets for the paid rides there or online.
A restored Victorian holiday village with moving figures, first shown in a downtown Boston department store. Paid extras include a tube slide, an indoor skating rink and a 4D Rudolph ride.
Parent tip: Shorter hours on Dec 24 (11am-3pm) and Dec 31 (10am-4pm). Skating needs a signed waiver.
- Christmas lightsSanta visitsIce skatingChristmas markets Good for toddlers
Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 27 · Nov 20-Dec 27; pick an entry time when you book
- Where
- Nationals Park, Navy Yard, southeast DC (Washington, DC)
- Price
- From $28; varies by date and time
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Timed tickets, book ahead
The ballpark fills with light displays, a holiday market and a Santa visit. Ice skating is an add-on.
Parent tip: Kids under 5 must skate with a parent. Book an early slot for the cheapest prices and smallest crowds.
- Ice skating
Sculpture Garden Ice Rink
- Dates
- Nov 23 - Mar 7 · Sun-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm. Sessions start every hour. Closed Dec 25 and Jan 1.
- Where
- National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, Constitution Ave between 7th and 9th Sts NW, National Mall (Washington, DC)
- Price
- $15 for ages 13 and up. $12 for kids 12 and under. Skates $7. Lockers free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Check nga.gov/icerink for tickets. Lessons need sign-up.
You skate around a fountain in the middle of a garden full of giant artworks on the National Mall. One ticket covers two short sessions in a row.
Parent tip: The rink closes in heavy rain or snow. Check the rink line, 202-216-9397, before you go.
- Ice skatingFree
The Rink Under the Giant Guitar
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 18 · Daily 4-8pm. Longer hours Dec 21-28 (noon-10pm). Christmas Eve noon-4pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
- Where
- Under the Giant Guitar sign, Wedgewood Houston, Wedgewood-Houston (Nashville)
- Price
- Free to skate. Skate rental $10.
- Ages and booking
- All ages. Skates start at toddler size 9. · Walk up. Free timed tickets are handed out in person, first come, first served.
A new outdoor ice rink sits under a giant guitar sign south of downtown. Sessions last 45 minutes, and there's hot chocolate nearby.
Parent tip: Kids under 7 need an adult with them. Tickets are first come, first served, so arrive close to opening.
- Ice skatingSanta visits Good for toddlers
Holidays at Nashville Yards (Rink Under Broad)
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Jan 3 · Nov 21-Jan 3. The rink is open all season. Check the site for daily hours.
- Where
- Nashville Yards, 21 Platform Way S., Downtown (Nashville)
- Price
- Skating is ticketed (prices not posted yet). Santa photos are free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy skating tickets online once they go on sale
Nashville Yards runs a real-ice skating rink, the Rink Under Broad, for the season. There are also free Santa photos and free holiday movie nights.
Parent tip: The Santa photo and movie dates aren't posted yet. Check the site before you plan around them.
Dates and prices were checked on each event's official site. They can change, so check the official site before you go.
More Christmas outings for families: Christmas markets, where to see Santa, Christmas light displays and the best Christmas towns in the USA.
Questions parents ask
How much does ice skating cost?
Most outdoor holiday rinks on this page cost about $10 to $25 a skater, often with skates included. A few city rinks are free if you bring your own skates. The most famous rinks and resort rinks cost more, and prices often go up on weekends and holiday weeks.
Is there free outdoor ice skating near me?
Yes, in a few cities. Winter Village at Bryant Park (New York), McCormick Tribune Ice Rink (Chicago), The Rink Under the Giant Guitar (Nashville) and Winterfest at Kiener Plaza (St. Louis) are free to skate, though some charge for skate rental or are only free with your own skates. Check each rink's price on this page.
Is there outdoor ice skating in Florida?
Yes. Now Snowing in Celebration (Orlando area) and Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park (Tampa area) have holiday skating this season. You'll also find holiday rinks in other warm places, like San Diego, Los Angeles, Houston, San Antonio, Las Vegas and New Orleans.
What age can kids start ice skating?
Many kids try skating at 2 or 3, but at that age they mostly stand, slide and hold on. Lots of parents wait until about 4 for lessons. A short public session with a skate helper is the easiest start.
Can I carry my baby or toddler on the ice?
Usually not. Many rinks don't let you carry a child while you skate, and strollers stay off the ice. One adult can skate with an older child while the other watches with the baby. Some rinks let a non-skating adult in free or for a small fee, so check the rink's rules.
Do I need to book ice skating ahead?
At the famous rinks, yes. Rockefeller Center, Wollman, Maggie Daley Park and others sell timed tickets, and weekend slots go fast. Smaller rinks often let you walk up. Each rink on this page lists how booking works.
What should kids wear ice skating?
Waterproof or snow pants, real gloves plus a spare pair, warm layers and a hat. Add a helmet for little ones. Many rinks don't rent helmets, and a bike helmet works for a first skate. Jeans get wet when kids fall.
Is Rockefeller Center ice skating worth it with kids?
It's worth it for kids who can already skate and want the famous photo under the tree. The rink is small and busy, so book an early weekday slot. For a first skate, Bryant Park or Wollman Rink is bigger and calmer, and you can walk to the tree after.
How late in the season can you skate outside?
Many holiday rinks close in early to mid January, but some stay open longer. The Rink at Rockefeller Center in New York runs until Mar 27, 2027.