12 Best Places to Visit for Ice Skating

When it comes to embracing the winter season, there’s no better way to experience the thrill of gliding across ice than by visiting some of the best ice skating destinations around the world. From picturesque outdoor rinks to iconic indoor arenas, these 12 locations offer a magical experience for ice skating enthusiasts of all levels.

1. Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, New York City, USA

   Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink is a quintessential winter destination. Surrounded by skyscrapers and the iconic Christmas tree, this rink offers a magical setting for visitors to enjoy the holiday season. The rink’s vibrant atmosphere and central location make it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience the enchantment of ice skating in the bustling city center.

   • Practical Tips: To make the most of your visit, consider taking advantage of early morning or late-night skating sessions when the rink is less crowded. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak holiday times.
   • Example Experience: Last year, a family from Ohio visited the rink during their holiday trip to NYC. They enjoyed the festive decorations and even spotted a celebrity filming a holiday special nearby, adding to the magic of their experience.
2. Rideau Canal Skateway, Ottawa, Canada

   Spanning over 4.8 miles, the Rideau Canal Skateway in Ottawa is the world’s largest naturally frozen ice skating rink. Visitors can skate through the historic waterway, taking in the charming sights of the city along the route. The Skateway is not just a recreational hotspot but also a significant part of Ottawa’s cultural heritage, attracting skaters and spectators alike to marvel at the beauty and history of this unique winter attraction.

   • Practical Tips: Stop by one of the canal’s food stands for a classic Canadian treat such as a BeaverTail pastry. The Skateway also offers skate rentals and sharpening services along the route, ensuring you’re well-equipped for a smooth glide.
   • Example Experience: A local skater, Julie, describes her weekly skates on the canal as a meditative experience, where she enjoys the crisp air and scenic views of Parliament Hill.
3. The Natural History Museum Ice Rink, London, UK

   Located in the enchanting grounds of the Natural History Museum, this ice rink offers a unique skating experience against the backdrop of stunning architecture and twinkling lights. Skaters can glide under the historic building’s majestic facade, creating a truly unforgettable experience. The juxtaposition of the museum’s grandeur and the joyous activity of ice skating provides a sense of wonder and delight, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a magical winter experience in London.

   • Practical Tips: Combine your skating session with a visit to the museum for a day full of discovery and fun. Evening sessions are particularly charming, with the rink’s fairy lights creating a cozy and festive atmosphere.
   • Example Experience: During a school trip, a group of students from Birmingham enjoyed not only the ice skating but also the educational exhibits in the museum, making it a memorable and enriching experience.
4. Red Square Ice Rink, Moscow, Russia

   Skating in the heart of Moscow’s Red Square is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Surrounded by the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin walls, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Russia while enjoying the thrill of ice skating. The Red Square Ice Rink not only offers a unique skating experience but also serves as a cultural journey through Russia’s past, blending tradition with the excitement of gliding on ice in a historic setting.

   • Practical Tips: Visit during the New Year celebrations to witness traditional Russian festivities and enjoy additional cultural performances around the square.
   • Example Experience: An international tourist, Maria, shared how skating on the Red Square Ice Rink was a dream come true, allowing her to connect with her Russian heritage in a profound way.
5. Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Canada

   In the breathtaking setting of Banff National Park, Lake Louise transforms into a picturesque ice skating paradise during the winter months. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the iconic Fairmont Chateau, this outdoor rink offers a truly awe-inspiring experience. Skating on Lake Louise is not just about enjoying the sport but also about soaking in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies, creating a serene and majestic backdrop for a memorable ice skating experience.

   • Practical Tips: Plan your visit during the Ice Magic Festival in January to see impressive ice sculptures around the lake. Dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
   • Example Experience: A couple celebrating their anniversary found skating on Lake Louise to be a romantic and unforgettable experience, particularly as the sun set behind the mountains.
6. Eiffel Tower Ice Rink, Paris, France

   Imagine skating in the shadow of the iconic Eiffel Tower – that’s exactly what visitors can experience at the temporary ice rink set up during the winter months. With panoramic views of one of the world’s most famous landmarks, this rink provides a truly magical setting for ice skaters. Skating at the Eiffel Tower Ice Rink offers a romantic and enchanting experience, allowing visitors to glide on ice while gazing at the shimmering lights of Paris, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere in the heart of the city.

   • Practical Tips: Visit midweek to avoid the weekend crowds and explore the nearby Christmas markets for delightful treats and souvenirs.
   • Example Experience: A travel blogger documented her visit to the Eiffel Tower Ice Rink, capturing stunning photos that highlighted the rink’s unique location and the enchanting Parisian skyline.
7. Lake Baikal, Russia

   As the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Baikal provides a unique ice skating experience like no other. Visitors can glide across the crystal-clear ice, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Siberia. Skating on Lake Baikal offers a serene and surreal experience, where skaters can feel a sense of tranquility while exploring the vast frozen expanse of the world’s largest lake, marveling at the pristine ice formations and stunning landscapes that make this location truly remarkable.

   • Practical Tips: Ensure safety by joining guided tours that provide the necessary equipment and local expertise. The best time for skating is February to March when the ice is thickest and most stable.
   • Example Experience: An adventure enthusiast, Alex, embarked on a multi-day skating expedition across Lake Baikal, describing it as a life-changing journey through one of nature’s most pristine environments.
8. Amsterdam Canal Ring, Netherlands

   During the winter months, the historic canals of Amsterdam freeze over, creating a one-of-a-kind ice skating opportunity. Skaters can navigate the picturesque canals, passing by charming Dutch architecture and vibrant neighborhoods along the way. Ice skating on the Amsterdam Canal Ring provides a unique perspective of the city, allowing visitors to glide past iconic landmarks and local life while enjoying the quintessential Dutch winter experience of skating on the frozen waterways of Amsterdam.

   • Practical Tips: Check local weather forecasts to ensure safe ice conditions before heading out. Renting skates is easy at nearby sports shops, and a thermos of hot chocolate makes for a delightful warm-up.
   • Example Experience: A local resident, Hans, shares how skating on the canals brings the community together, with neighbors and tourists alike celebrating the rare natural occurrence.
9. Ice Skating on a Glacier, Switzerland

   For a truly unforgettable ice skating adventure, visitors can skate on the glaciers of Switzerland. Surrounded by towering alpine peaks and pristine snow, this experience offers a unique way to connect with nature while enjoying the thrill of skating in a breathtaking setting. Ice skating on a glacier in Switzerland is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feel the crisp mountain air, marvel at the vast icy landscape, and glide on a frozen wonderland high in the Swiss Alps, creating lasting memories of a truly remarkable winter escapade.

   • Practical Tips: Ensure you are equipped for the cold and wear sunglasses to protect against the glare from the ice and snow. Consider joining a guided tour for the safest experience.
   • Example Experience: An adventurous couple chose to skate on the Aletsch Glacier, sharing that the experience was both humbling and exhilarating, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding alpine scenery.
10. Olympic Ice Oval, Salt Lake City, USA

    Home to the 2002 Winter Olympics, Salt Lake City boasts the Olympic Ice Oval, where visitors can skate on the same ice where world-class athletes once competed. This facility offers a high-quality skating experience for visitors of all skill levels. Skating at the Olympic Ice Oval in Salt Lake City allows visitors to partake in Olympic history, feeling the exhilaration of skating on hallowed grounds that have witnessed the triumphs of athletes, creating a sense of accomplishment and inspiration for all who lace up their skates.

    • Practical Tips: Check the Oval’s schedule for public skating times and special events. Beginners may benefit from signing up for a lesson to improve their skills on this professional-grade ice.
    • Example Experience: A family from California visited the Oval during their ski trip to Utah and enjoyed the opportunity to skate in an Olympic venue, sparking dreams of future athletic achievements in their young children.
11. Oulanka National Park, Finland

    In the Arctic wilderness of Finland, Oulanka National Park provides a stunning backdrop for ice skating adventures. Visitors can skate on frozen rivers and lakes, surrounded by snow-covered forests and the serene beauty of the Finnish landscape. Ice skating in Oulanka National Park offers a serene and unspoiled environment for skaters to immerse themselves in the pristine natural surroundings of Finnish Lapland, where the quietude of the wilderness and the allure of icy trails create a tranquil and enchanting experience for winter enthusiasts.

    • Practical Tips: Pack a picnic to enjoy in designated areas, where you can take in the breathtaking views and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly.
    • Example Experience: An environmental photographer visited Oulanka and captured stunning images of the park’s wildlife and landscapes, sharing the tranquility and natural beauty of this remote location.
12. Harbin Ice Festival, China

    The annual Harbin Ice Festival in China features elaborate ice sculptures and stunning ice rinks that attract visitors from around the world. With an array of ice skating opportunities against a backdrop of dazzling ice artwork, this festival offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for ice skating enthusiasts. The Harbin Ice Festival is a feast for the eyes and an adventure for skaters, combining the artistry of ice sculptures with the joy of gliding on ice in a winter wonderland, where visitors can marvel at the intricate frozen creations and revel in the excitement of skating amidst a world of ice and light.

    • Practical Tips: Plan your visit for January to coincide with the festival’s peak. Dress in layers and consider renting a heated jacket for extra warmth while exploring the expansive festival grounds.
    • Example Experience: A travel group from Australia marveled at the scale and detail of the ice sculptures, enjoying nightly skating sessions surrounded by the illuminated artworks, which they described as a highlight of their winter travels.

These destinations offer more than just an opportunity to skate; they provide a window into the culture and beauty of their respective regions. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, each location promises a unique experience, blending the joy of ice skating with the wonder of winter landscapes and cultural landmarks. So lace up your skates and embark on an icy adventure across the globe, creating memories that will last a lifetime.