The 10 Best Places to Go Ice Skating in the U.S.
Have you ever wondered how outdoor ice rinks are kept cold during winter, even in warm weather conditions?
Whether you're hitting an indoor or outdoor ice skating rink, you'll undoubtedly be taking part in one of the best winter activities. Here, we have listed the 10 best places to go ice skating in the US that will offer you beautiful outdoor landscapes and incredible backdrops for relaxation.
1. Half Dome Village, California
If you want the complete opposite scenery from the gorgeous urban landscape of New York City, Half Dome Village in Yosemite Park will take you into the luscious forest and half dome rock sculpture of ice and snow. A fire pit is there to warm yourself by, and they also offer shoes for rent should you not have your own skates.
2. Frankenmuth Rink, Michigan
Michigan is known for its access to the magnificent Great Lakes and snow that stacks feet high, so it makes sense they have fantastic ice-skating rinks. The beautiful skyline of Detroit is the backdrop to Frankenmuth Rink with glistening lights illuminating the ice, so it too glistens right back.
Photo by David Mark
3. Rockefeller Center, New York
The most timeless and well-known ice skating rink that brings skaters, both amateur and professional from all over the world, is Rockefeller Center in New York City. The buildings are sky-high, the streets are lined with twinkling lights, and the 100-foot Christmas tree sets the stage for a whimsical time.
4. The Ice at Discovery Green, Texas
You probably wouldn't expect a fantastic ice-skating center to be found in the deep south where winter rarely goes below freezing, but the Ice at Discovery Green in Houston, Texas, is more than fantastic. Neon lights light the way for friends and family during the winter season.
5. Safeco Field Ice Rink, Washington
Safeco Field in Seattle, Washington, is nearly new, and it is one of the most splendorous centers in the world already. The ice rink runs in a hoop with lights, trees, and wreaths, all almost literally dripping in lights, and the fact it is in the middle of a beautiful baseball field makes it a truly unique scene.
Photo by Ekaterina Anisimova
6. McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, Illinois
In Millennium Park in Chicago, Illinois, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is one of the most popular ice centers in the country. The rink is nestled in the middle of the Windy City and overlooks the famous "bean" sculpture. If you bring your own skates, it's free entry, but they have some to rent if you need too.
7. Nestlenook Farms, New Hampshire
From sleigh rides to snowshoeing, the little town of Jackson, New Hampshire has the quaint Nestlenook Farm with the sweetest little ice skating path that runs through the forest, under bridges, and on the side of a beautiful lake.If you're looking for a quieter run that's in the middle of nowhere, but somewhere beautiful, Nestlenook Farms is the place to be.
8. The Edgewater, Wisconsin
Just as the name suggests, the ice-skating center in Madison, Wisconsin, is on the edge of the water on top of the four-star hotel for which the rink is named for; Edgewater. You'll be completely enthralled in the sky-high beauty of the city and lake while skating around the ice.
Photo by Matthew Fournier
9. LeFrak Center, New York
In Brooklyn, New York, the LeFrak Center opens up in the winter season with two separate ice-skating rinks, one indoor and one outdoor. In both, you can also enjoy more activities other than just ice skating like curling, hockey, and figure skating, as well as Skate School classes.
10. MassMutual Ice Rink, Pennsylvania
In the competition for the most popular and massive urban ice-skating spot, the MassMutual Ice Rink in Pittsburgh is more than twice the size of Rockefeller. Surrounding the rink are glass buildings that reflect the lights from the huge Christmas tree onto the skaters, creating a dazzling display for pictures and memories both.
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Check your local weather station for the perfect wintry day to visit your local outdoor ice-skating rink and take part in the holiday season.
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