Want to take the kids ice skating? These family-friendly ice skating rinks in the Bay Area are full of fun, lights, and sometimes, can all be had for free
Ice skating is a great family tradition during the holidays. Bundle up, find your favorite rink and get ready to lace up those skates. From festive holiday lights and special events to beautiful decor and some of the best hot cocoa in SF, there are plenty of ice rinks to choose from in the area, although below our some of our favorites. Added Bonus: There are skating aids for even the littlest skater.
The Best Place to Ice Skate in San Francisco
1. The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square
Rockefeller Center meet Union Square! In addition to public skating hours they have special events: such as Drag Queens on Ice, Flashback Fridays, Silent Skate and the Polar Bear Skate, all returning this year. Free skate lessons every weekend at 8 a.m., advance registration required.
When: Now-Jan. 16
Cost: $20/ticket which includes skate rental/ ages 8 and under are $15
Union Square
San Francisco
Online: unionsquareicerink.com
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6. Winter Lodge
Open since 1956, this ice rink has brought fun and smiles to families over several generations. Warm up by the fire pits when your little ones need a break from skating. Added Bonus: Ice skating lessons are also available.
When: Now-Apr. 8
Cost: $17/admission, $5 skates
3009 Middlefield Rd.
Palo Alto
Online: winterlodge.com
7. San Mateo on Ice
Located in Central Park, this 9,000-square foot rink is the largest in the Bay Area with real ice. Don’t miss free community skate days on Dec. 7, 13 & Jan. 5.
When: Now-Jan. 8
Cost: $18-21/person including skate rental
50 E. 5th Ave.
San Mateo
Online: onicerinks.com
8. WinterFest at California's Great America
Winter takes over Great America in Santa Clara on November 25 and you can ice skate right in front of the iconic double decker carousel, one of the largest in the world. Sign up for your spot when you arrive in the park as this activity is very popular.
When: Select dates now-Jan. 1
Cost: $17 for ice skating in addition to regular admission
4701 Great America Pkwy.
Santa Clara
Online: cagreatamerica.com
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9. Iceless Rink at the Bay Area Discovery Museum
Kick-off the winter season with a spin around the "ice!" BADM's popular Iceless Skating Rink returns this year, so families can experience another year of fun—without the fear of falling. Admission to the rink is included with your museum admission. It is open throughout Dec.
When: Opens Dec. 1
Cost: Included with museum admission
557 McReynolds Rd.
Sausalito
Online: bayareadiscoverymuseum.org
10. Ice Skating at Vista Collina
This new attraction is ready for skaters! This rink rink features real ice and will transform into a winter wonderland with special events and theme nights plus 100% chance of snow every night at 6 p.m.! Can't beat that? Children can keep warm by the toasty fire pits while beer and wine keeps the adults happy in a brand new Napa holiday tradition!
When: Now-Jan. 8
Cost: $25
850 Bordeaux Way
Napa
Online: meritagecollection.com
11. Snoopy’s Home Ice
This picturesque indoor spot, next to the Charles M. Schulz museum, is open year-round, but they make it extra festive at Christmas time. Be sure to check their daily schedule for session times.
When: Open year round, Holiday season starts Dec. 1
Cost: $11/ages 12 & up, $9/kids 11 & under. Skate rental $4
1667 W Steele Ln.
Santa Rosa
Online: snoopyshomeice.com
