Winter brings with it a special kind of magic, and one of the best ways to enjoy the frosty air and glistening snow is by lacing up your skates and gliding across an outdoor rink. It doesn't even have to be a rink and in many cases it isn't. Anywhere that you have cold enough weather to safely hold the weight of skaters on the frozen surface you will likely find people looking to skate there.
I grew up skating on creeks, rivers, lakes, and I loved it all. Especially when the skating activity was followed by a hot chocolate that seems to be present at every skating venue. Whether you're a seasoned skater or just looking to try something new, these ten stunning locations offer some of the best outdoor skating experiences around the world. Perhaps not surprisingly half of these locations are in Canada but for anyone who has experienced a true Canadian winter you can certainly understand why there are so many places that are noteworthy for skating.
So, lace 'em up and enjoy!
1. Rideau Canal Skateway – Ottawa, Canada
Arguably the most famous outdoor skating destination in the world, the Rideau Canal transforms into a 7.8-kilometer (4.8-mile) frozen highway each winter offering a long, uninterrupted stretch of ice from downtown to Dows Lake. . Skating on this UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a quintessential Canadian experience but also offers scenic views of Ottawa’s landmarks. The Skateway is not only the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink but also a central part of Ottawa’s annual Winterlude festival. Visitors can rent skates, stop at food huts for iconic Canadian treats like Beavertails, and warm up in cozy shelters along the way. Skating on the canal is completely free assuming you have your own skates. Rentals run around $25 CAN for a two hour rental.
Winter Events:
Winterlude Festival: This event spans three weeks in February and features ice and snow sculptures, snow playgrounds, and performances. The ice carving competitions, held in Confederation Park, are a highlight, attracting sculptors from around the world. I remember going there one winter and it must have been -40 outside but the canal was still packed. The snow sculptures I saw that year were hilarious. They had all done a Muppets theme.
2. Wiener Eistraum – Vienna, Austria
The Wiener Eistraum transforms the Rathausplatz in front of Vienna’s City Hall into a winter wonderland with 9,000 square meters of ice to explore. The rink is not just a typical oval; it features meandering paths through the park and multiple levels, making it a unique skating experience. The enchanting lights at night create a magical atmosphere that feels like skating through a storybook. The entrance fee to the ice rink is around €10 with skate rentals priced around €9.
Winter Events:
Vienna Christmas Markets: Running through December, the Christmas markets add to the festive cheer with stalls selling traditional Austrian food, crafts, and gifts.
Ice Dream in January: The rink remains open after the holidays with live music and dance performances adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
3. Wollman Rink & Rockefeller Plaza – New York City, USA
In the heart of Manhattan, Wollman Rink is a classic winter destination that offers breathtaking views of the New York skyline. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and though the rink can get crowded, the experience of skating in Central Park amidst snow-dusted trees is unforgettable. While in New York you can also stop by Rockefeller Plaza and skate in that iconic spot beneath the massive Christmas tree, but be aware it is very small, crazy busy and not cheap. General admission prices vary depending on the time of day and the season. Typically, admission ranges from $40 to $90, with peak holiday times being the most expensive. Wollman Rink is anywhere from $15 - $35 depending on age as well as season.
Winter Events:
Holiday Markets: Central Park is close to the Columbus Circle Holiday Market, where you can pick up artisan gifts, enjoy street food, and sip on hot beverages.
Winter Jam: This free winter sports festival happens in Central Park and includes snowshoeing, skiing, and live entertainment.
4. Bonsecours Basin – Montreal, Canada
Located in the Old Port, the Bonsecours Basin rink is known for its historic surroundings, providing skaters with a stunning backdrop of 18th-century architecture. The rink often plays music and is beautifully illuminated at night, offering both a family-friendly atmosphere and a romantic vibe. What else would you expect from a chic French-Canadian City? After you have finished skating around the park make a pitstop into the nearby Bonsecours Market and grab a pint and a nibble at Brewskey pub and Brasserie.
Admission: Approx. $7-9 CAD for adults, $5-6 for children.
Skate Rental: $12 CAD.
Winter Events:
Montréal en Lumière: This city-wide winter festival in February features art, gastronomy, music, and even a giant Ferris wheel. The Nuit Blanche event is a part of the festival, with all-night activities including special skating events at Bonsecours Basin.
Igloofest: Held nearby, this outdoor electronic music festival is perfect for those looking to dance the night away in the snow.
5. Flevonice – Biddinghuizen, Netherlands
Flevonice offers long-distance skating on its nearly 3-kilometer-long rink, one of the longest in Europe. It's ideal for both casual skaters and serious athletes. The outdoor rink winds through the picturesque Dutch landscape, providing a refreshing and scenic skating route.
Admission: Approx. €12-15 for adults.
Skate Rental: €6-8.
Winter Events:
Elfstedentocht (Eleven Cities Tour): Although not held annually (due to varying ice conditions), the Elfstedentocht is a legendary long-distance skating race through Friesland’s canals and lakes. It’s the largest ice-skating tour in the world when it happens.
6. Emerald Lake – British Columbia, Canada
Skating on Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park offers a serene and peaceful experience, with natural ice surrounded by the towering Canadian Rockies. The lake's stunning turquoise waters freeze over in winter, creating a scenic and remote rink perfect for those seeking tranquility. I spent a few nights at the Lodge there one time which saw me ring in the New Year. It was amazing. The only way up to the lodge from the parking area was a horse drawn sleigh. It was truly a magical experience being there with the snow covered trees, and massive 5 foot icicles hanging from the eaves of the lodgings. I remember playing hockey on the rink at 1 AM with a bunch of rather inebriated people. Shortly after which we all ended up in the outdoor hot tub. What a night!
Admission: Free (you'll need to buy a national park pass though to access Yoho).
Skate Rental: Bring your own; no on-site rentals are available
Winter Events:
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: While skating is a top activity, you can also explore the nearby snowy trails by snowshoe or cross-country ski. During my stay I did actually quite a bit of cross country skiing. The silence of the place in winter is deafening if that makes any sense.
Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival (nearby): Although not at Emerald Lake, the nearby Lake Louise (also on this list) hosts a world-class ice carving competition in January. Visitors can witness incredible sculptures and enjoy skating on the lake at the same time.
7. Rathausplatz Ice Rink – Vienna, Austria
The smaller and cozier sibling of the Wiener Eistraum, the Rathausplatz Ice Rink is perfect for families and those looking to enjoy a leisurely skate through Vienna's central park. The Gothic architecture of the Rathaus creates a stunning backdrop, especially when illuminated at night.
Admission: Approx. €7-9 for adults, €5-6 for children.
Skate Rental: €7.
Winter Events:
Christmas Markets: Starting in November, the Rathausplatz hosts one of Vienna’s largest and most famous Christmas markets, offering visitors a chance to shop for handmade gifts, drink mulled wine, and enjoy festive foods.
New Year’s Eve Gala: Vienna is known for its extravagant New Year’s celebrations, and the Rathausplatz becomes a hub for concerts and fireworks.
8. The Forks – Winnipeg, Canada
The Forks’ Red River Mutual Trail is one of the longest naturally frozen skating trails in the world, winding through Winnipeg’s frozen rivers. The Forks site is rich in history, and during the winter, it transforms into a bustling hub of activity with cozy warming huts along the route. There are lots of smaller pathways that are lit up with multicolored lights as well as a larger central area with a couple of hockey rinks. Some years are better than others for the length of time the park is open for skating. It has been open as long as 76 days (2019) and as short as 9 days (2024) so if it looks like it has been a warm winter in the Great White North you might want to look into going around the end of January for your best chance at skating there.
Admission: Free.
Skate Rental: Approx. $8-10 CAD.
Winter Events:
Festival du Voyageur: Held in February, this is Manitoba’s largest winter festival, celebrating French-Canadian culture with music, dance, snow sculptures, and traditional food. Skating events often coincide with the festival.
Art on Ice: The trail features warming huts designed by international architects and artists, turning the skating path into a temporary outdoor art gallery.
9. Somerset House – London, England
Skating at Somerset House is one of London’s most elegant winter traditions. The ice rink is located in a grand Georgian courtyard, with the iconic backdrop of the Somerset House façade. Skating sessions are accompanied by music, and the rink often hosts special DJ nights and themed events.
Admission: £11-23 (depending on time and age).
Skate Rental: Included in the admission price.
Winter Events:
Fortnum & Mason Christmas Arcade: Somerset House’s Christmas market offers luxury shopping and dining experiences, making it a perfect place to indulge after skating.
Skate Lates: These evening sessions bring a party atmosphere to the rink with live DJ sets and themed skating events.
10. Lake Louise – Alberta, Canada
Nestled in Banff National Park, Lake Louise’s natural skating rink is one of the most picturesque spots in the world. The pristine lake is surrounded by the towering Rockies, with the majestic Fairmont Château Lake Louise perched on its shores. I love going here to skate. It's been a few years now but it is probably my favorite place to go for a spin on the ice. The scenery is truly breathtaking and the Château itself is beautiful. I also like to walk out across the lake, and yees you can traverse the entire lake when it has frozen enough. One trip I found a bunch of people on the far side of the lake that were ice climbing a giant waterfall. very cool.
After a skate, sitting in the Château with a nice hot cup of tea and a blueberry scone is the only way to end the day.
Admission: Free (you'll need to buy a national park pass though to access Banff).
Skate Rental: Approx. $20 CAD per day (at Fairmont Chateau).
Winter Events:
Ice Magic Festival: Held in January, the Ice Magic Festival attracts master ice sculptors from around the world to compete in an ice-carving competition. The sculptures are displayed around the lake, enhancing the already breathtaking scenery. They usually create a large ice castle as well that you can stroll through. It is not closed in overhead but it is still spectacular.
SnowDays: A winter festival in Banff with ice skating, ice climbing, and snow carving.
Skiing: Banff is home to some world class skiing facilities. Lake Louise and Sunshine are two incredible spots for downhill. I remember one year I went skiing with a bud and the valley was shrouded in clouds with a light snow falling. As we went up the hill on the second chairlift to the back bowl we passed through the clouds and spent the next few hours skiing in bright sunshine above the clouds. Awesome!
While in Banff, make sure you check out the thermal waters of the Banff Hot Springs, nestled on Sulphur Mountain where you can also ride the gondola up to the top for a stunning view of the valley.
Bonus:
Champex-Lac – Chamonix, France
Champex Lac is a small, tranquil alpine lake nestled in the Mont Blanc-Chamonix region, providing a peaceful and scenic skating experience. The natural ice rink is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering a postcard-perfect setting. Visitors can also enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and nearby winter hiking trails. Champex Lac is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more serene alternative to larger and busier skating locations. The location has been nicknamed, appropriately enough, "Little Canada". Fun fact: Chamonix was the setting for the first ever Winter Olympics in 1924.
Conclusion
Outdoor skating is more than just a sport; it's a way to connect with winter's beauty. It doesn't matter if you're gliding through a bustling city park or skating on a serene frozen lake, each of these destinations offers a unique and memorable experience. These outdoor skating areas often combine the beauty of winter with festive events that transform the cold season into an exciting celebration: Christmas markets, snow and ice sculptures, and music festivals to name a few. So, bundle up, sharpen those skates, and make this winter one to remember at one of these incredible outdoor skating locations.
Il Digestivo
Planning on a little bit of winter activity like skating? Make sure you're ready for the cold weather. Here's a few suggestions.
HotHands Hand Warmer Value Pack
An essential and an absolute lifesaver for when the temperature drops. Good for inside gloves or boots, might not be a good fit in those skates though but at least you can leave them in your boots so when you're done skating you can put on a warm pair!
Specs & Details:
• Quantity: 20 Individual Hand Warmers (10 pairs).
• Duration OF Heat: Up to 10 hours of heat.
• Average Temperature: 135 degrees Fahrenheit (57 degrees Celsius).
• Country of Origin: Made in the USA using domestic and imported materials.
THERMOS Vacuum Insulated Bottle
Thermos vacuum insulation technology locks in temperature to preserve flavor and freshness to keep beverages hot for 12 hours. Durable 18/8 stainless steel interior and exterior withstand the demands of everyday use. Built-in stainless steel cup lets you enjoy your beverage anywhere.
UGG Women's Franca Travel Cardigan
Ugg is a very well known name associated with comfort. This loose fitting cardigan with oversize hood and welt pockets is sure to please. Ideal for lounging around the warming huts by the rink or for layering under a heavier jacket. Available in 3 different color options.
Aran Crafts Men's Irish Cable Knitted Cardigan Sweater
This Beautiful Aran Button Mens Sweater is made from 100% Irish Merino Wool ensuring you warmth and softness. Made by the renowned West End Knitwear, Irelands biggest knitwear manufacturer, and the Irish sure do know how to make clothes for a cold rainy day and this will work as a great layer to keep you toasty on the ice. Available in tan or charcoal.
Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Comments