Top 10 Ice Skating Rinks
As you figure out your winter vacation plans, consider making a figure 8 around the best ice skating rinks in the world.
Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center
Where: New York, New York
When to Go: Columbus Day weekend (October) to early April
A New York City winter vacation doesn’t seem complete without a lap or two around this celebrated ice rink. Everything from elaborate proposals to family bonding happens under the gaze of the famous Prometheus Statue, but for a hefty price. If you’re low on cash, stroll through scenic and historic Rockefeller Center and be a spectator for a day.
Pond at Bryant Park
Where: Manhattan, New York
When to Go: October 24 to January 26
Manhattan boasts a number of quality ice skating rinks, but the Pond at Bryant Park is your only free option. In late fall, the pond sandwiched between 40th and 42nd Streets turns into an icy escape for kids, their parents, and workers normally holed up in their office. Take a ride on the carousel and get some holiday shopping done while you’re here! Find a Manhattan condo rental and make a winter vacation out of it.
Sculpture Garden Ice Rink
Where: Washington, DC
When to Go: Mid-November to Mid-March
If you’re a bit clumsy on the ice, it will be difficult to peel your eyes from your two left feet and focus instead on the beautiful sculptures and lights that line this outdoor rink, but it’s worth a try. If you’re an aspiring figure skater, slow down for a moment and take in the scenery provided by the National Gallery of Art. Consider Washington DC rentals for your trip to the Sculpture Garden Ice Rink.
Boston Common Frog Pond
Where: Boston, Massachusetts
When to Go: Mid-November to Mid-March
In the summer, cool off in the wading pool and dodge through the fountain. In the winter, slip and slide across 16,000 square feet of ice! This natural mud-pond-turned-ice rink is centered in the country’s oldest public park.
Downtown on Ice
Where: Pershing Square in Los Angeles, California
When to Go: Mid-November to Mid-January
The so-called Rockefeller Center of California helps make the season bright for budget-conscious families on the warm West Coast. Learn ice hockey from the LA Kings, dance (or fall down) on the ice to live music, and pretend it’s cold outside!
Depot Skating Rink
Where: Minneapolis, Minnesota
When to Go: Late November to Late March
What do you do with a century-old train depot that’s no longer in operation? Turn it into an ice skating rink with stunning views of downtown Minneapolis, that’s what! The Depot Skating Rink is also home to restaurants, shops, and an indoor water park.
Somerset House
Where: London, England
When to Go: November 19 to January 25
Not many rinks match the magic of the Somerset House, an 18th century courtyard and festively-decorated playground for ice skate-clad locals and tourists. Learn how to put one skate in front of the other with a lesson, or polish up your double axle, at this premier wintertime attraction. Save some money while you're at it, with a London condo rental.
Blue Cross River Rink
Where: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
When to Go: November 28 to March 2
Last season, a quarter million ice skaters hit the Blue Cross River Rink, nestled on the banks of the Delaware River, so why don’t you join the fun this year? Enjoy the rink’s popular annual events, like “Skate with Santa” and the “New Year’s Eve Party on Ice,” or avoid the crowds on a non holiday.
Adventure Ridge
Where: Vail, Colorado
When to Go: December 17 to April 11
Switch out your skis for ice skates and take the gondola ride to the top of Vail Mountain, where a snowcapped mountaintop rink with an elevation of 10,350 feet awaits. The rink isn’t the only thing to look forward to though; a tubing hill, bungee trampoline, and laser tag are all worthy distractions from the resort's normal activities -- skiing and snowboarding. A Vail ski in out condo is great to come home to after a long day on Adventure Ridge.
Greenwich Ice Rink
Where: London, England
When to Go: December to January
Glide past the Queen’s House and the Greenwich Conservatory in this Old Royal Naval College ice rink, which lies along the Thames River.
Pick an ice rink and then pick an accommodation, like a Vail ski in out condo or London condo rental.
Photos by Simon Greig and Thomas Hawk.