Get out on the ice this holiday season to learn a new skill or show off your expertise at these Washington, DC ice skating rinks
There are so many ways to enjoy the winter weather and holiday season locally, from seeking out festive light displays in Washington DC to enjoying the snowfall by playing at the region’s best snowtubing resorts and parks. But one of our absolute favorite winter activities is ice skating at rinks that either pop up seasonally or stick around year round. These spots often have other fun features such as amazing light displays, holiday shopping for unique gifts, and snowy play spaces for kids. Are you new to skating and nervous to hit the ice? Fortunately, these rinks are ready to accommodate all skill levels.
1. Enchant Christmas
The Enchant forest is a breathtaking trail through millions of shimmery holiday lights on ice. After you finish gliding through the ice trail, take the kids to meet Santa, check out the giant light maze, and play in the kids' play place. For parents, end the adventure with a little shopping in the Christmas market. They also have cubbies available for storage. And if parents aren't skating, they can hang out at the nearby bar and still keep an eye on the kiddos.
Dates: Nov. 25-Jan. 1
1500 S Capitol St. SE
Washington, DC
Online: enchantchristmas.com
2. The Sculpture Garden Ice Rink
This DC ice skating rink boasts the "best backdrop." Ice skate among the grand architecture of national museums and contemporary large-scale sculptures in the Sculpture Garden Ice Rink. Through March 5, reserve your ticket that grants you two 45-minute skate sessions. When you've had your fill of icy temperatures and skating, head to the Pavilion Cafe for a warm drink, bowl of soup, or other tasty treat. There are also a variety of skate lessons to choose from for those less experienced.
Dates: Nov. 26-March 5
7th St. and Constitution Ave. NW
Washington, DC
Online: pavilioncafe.com
3. Washington Harbour Ice Rink
This winter, Washington Harbour Ice Rink morphs from fountain to ice skating rink until mid-March. Twirl and swirl in hour-and-a-half increments before the rink is closed for a quick cleaning and refresh before the next session. Rent a penguin for little skaters who aren't yet steady on their blades.
Dates: Nov. 18-March 12
3000-3050 K St. NW
Washington, DC
Online: thewashingtonharbour.com
4. Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run
Cameron Run Regional Park has transformed itself into a magical winter village, complete with light displays, fire pits, a market filled with holiday treats, and an ice skating rink. Through Jan. 1, admission includes both the village and one hour of skating. From Jan. 7 through Feb. 26, only the ice rink will remain and it will be open on weekends and holidays only. While admission to the village only can be purchased at the door, skating tickets must be purchased online in advance. Skating tickets are non-refundable but can be changed to another date and time before your scheduled session.
Dates: Nov. 18-Feb. 26
4001 Eisenhower Ave.
Alexandria, VA
Online: novaparks.com
5. Color Burst Ice Rink
The Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District makes a great family-friendly outing. Admission is limited so be sure to buy your tickets in advance. Various celebrations and themed events are planned for the season, in addition to music and pop-up food and beverage. If you're still hungry, give one of the nearby restaurants a try.
Insider Tip: Season passes are available for $99.
Dates: Nov. 18-Feb. 28
6000 Merriweather Dr.
Columbia, MD
Online: merriweatherdistrict.com
6. Columbia Ice Rink
You can enjoy public sessions and lessons at this DC area ice skating rink where reservations are not required. Check the calendar for times and dates of public skate sessions, along with special event skates such as Teen Night and Skate Party.
Insider Tip: CA Fit&Play, Play, 5Day Golf&Play, and Golf Fit&Play members skate free during public sessions. The skate rental fee is $4.25 for everyone.
Dates: Public skating sessions are daily, year-round (minus July)
5876 Thunder Hill Rd.
Columbia, MD
Online: columbiaassociation.org
7. Reston Town Center Ice Rink
This shopping and dining area turns its open-air pavilion into an ice rink every winter. The skate shop has more than 500 pairs of skates in figure skating and hockey styles, plus double-bladed, flat-edge skates for beginners. You can also reserve private ice time for your parties of up to 100 guests.
Insider Tip: All sales are nonrefundable but you can reschedule your session as long as you email them prior to your scheduled session time.
Dates: Nov. 17-March 12
1818 Discovery St.
Reston, VA
Online: restontowncenter.com
8. Silver Spring Ice Skating at Veterans Plaza
Enjoy some loops around a rink that sits in the middle of a shopping and dining center. You must purchase your ticket before your arrival; reservations can be made two weeks in advance. Reservations are guaranteed up to 10 minutes after your scheduled skate time. You'll get to be on the ice for an hour and 20 minutes.
Dates: Now through the last week in March
8523 Fenton St.
Silver Spring, MD
Online: silverspringiceskating.com
9. Rockville Town Square Ice Rink
At 7,200 square feet, this outdoor rink is said to be the biggest between Baltimore and Washington. Rockville Town Square has shops, restaurants, and even a spa (just saying) to peruse after you hang up your blades. Reservations are required and can be made up to two weeks ahead of time.
Dates: Now through mid-March
131 Gibbs St.
Rockville, MD
Online: rockvilleiceskating.com
10. Pentagon Row Outdoor Ice Skating
This ice skating rink in the Washington DC area is a whopping 6,840 square feet—the largest outdoor rink in Northern Virginia and the second largest in the state. Little ones can grab a penguin aide, and youth skating and hockey lessons are available. Reservations are required and can be made up to two weeks in advance.
Dates: Now through mid-March
1201 S Joyce St.
Arlington, VA
Online: pentagonrowskating.com
