Are you ready to experience some of the best ice skating in the United States? From the sun-kissed shores of San Diego, where beachside skating meets Pacific Ocean panoramas, to the heart of Houston, where malls transform into icy playgrounds, these rinks redefine the traditional winter pastime.
National Gallery of Art Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden (Washington, DC)
Art and ice collide at the National Gallery of Art Ice Skating Rink. Tucked away in the National Mall’s Sculpture Garden, you’ll glide across the ice surrounded by historic buildings and stunning works of art. For a truly magical experience, visit at night when the trees twinkle in an array of dazzling lights and local DJs entertain with the latest musical hits.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center (New York, New York)
When it comes to iconic winter activities, skating at the Rockefeller Center is a New York City staple. Speed over the glistening ice with NYC’s towering skyscrapers as your backdrop. Take a selfie in front of the spectacular Rockefeller Christmas Tree. Or, experience the VIP treatment by reserving one of the rink-side chalets. You’ll stay warm and cozy as you sip beers from local breweries and dine on a seasonal menu of small plates.
Hotel Del Coronado (San Diego, California)
Ocean views and ice skating, too? You bet at Hotel Del Coronado’s Skating by the Sea® event. Soak up the sun and enjoy the scenic Pacific while practicing your double axel on the ice. Cozy up by the rink-side fire pits with a cup of hot cocoa, or spend some time in the Frostbite Lounge and sip holiday-themed cocktails. Need a break from skating? Enjoy a martini or glass of wine at the Sun Deck Bar & Grille, or take a sunset stroll along the surf.
Labrie Family Skate (Portsmouth, New Hampshire)
A dose of New England history and ice skating is what you’ll find at the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth. Tucked between the museum’s historic buildings, Puddle Duck Pond provides the perfect surface for an afternoon or evening of ice skating. Rent the pond for a private party, take skating lessons, or play a game of pick-up pond hockey. Or, take some time exploring the museum’s exhibits and historic sites, such as the Abbott House & Store – an old mom-and-pop grocery store.
Ice at the Galleria (Houston, Texas)
Underneath a massive glass atrium, you’ll find an indoor ice-skating rink at Houston’s Galleria. Here, you can skate to your heart’s content and shop until you drop in between. During the holidays, the rink is decorated with twinkling lights and a massive Christmas tree you can skate around. One of the few year-round ice-skating rinks in the USA, the rink hosts skating camps, classes, and even private birthday parties!
The Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan (Las Vegas, Nevada)
You haven’t truly experienced ice skating until you’ve skated underneath the neon lights of the Las Vegas strip. During the holidays, The Cosmopolitan transforms its rooftop pool into a magical winter wonderland. Enjoy incredible views of the Strip, sip cocktails between rounds on the ice, or cozy up to a rink-side fire and roast s’mores. The rooftop is also home to a mountaintop-style chalet with comfortable lounge chairs, a fire pit, and a bar where you can enjoy handcrafted drinks and delectable bites.
Boston Common Frog Pond (Boston, Massachusetts)
Nothing beats ice skating outside in the fresh, crisp winter air, and Frog Pond in Boston Common delivers. Here, you’ll experience the beauty of the Boston skyline while skating on a natural ice rink surrounded by towering trees. Skate rentals are available if you don’t own a pair, and you can also brush up on your skills with the Skating Academy. Need to warm up? Grab a sweet and hot cup of cocoa at the Pond Cottage.
Blue Cross River Rink (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Overlooking the Delaware River, the Blue Cross River Rink is a winter gem during its annual Winterfest. Skate underneath strings of glittery lights surrounded by festive Christmas trees. Chow down on funnel cakes and smokey barbecue from the rink-side concession stands. And get toasty in one of the warming cabins or firepit stations. Throughout the season, the rink hosts boardwalk rides, games and more. It’s truly a magical experience.
