From picturesque outdoor rinks to state-of-the-art indoor arenas, there are many great ice skating rinks around the globe.
In this post, we will take you to ten of the best skating rinks that offer something extra special and are must-visit for anyone’s ice skating bucket list.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more information.
The Best Ice Skating Rinks In The World
Are you looking for the best place to go ice skating?
From grand ice palaces in Europe to outdoor rinks in North America, these are the places where you can experience a truly unforgettable time on the ice.
We’ll discuss their features, amenities and more to help you decide which one is right for you.
First of all, what makes a rink great?
Here are some things we looked at when we considered which ice rinks to put on this list:
- Is it a seasonal outdoor rink with real ice?
- Does it have a fantastic winter wonderland feel that the whole family can enjoy?
- Does the rink offer skate rentals or do you need to bring your own skates?
- Are there any amenities such as hot chocolate or fire pits to enjoy?
If you are looking for a fun place to visit during the holiday season or just want to find ice skating rinks when on vacation, you’ll love this ice skating bucket list
Ice Skating Bucket List
Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, New York City, USA
The iconic Rockefeller Rink in New York City is one of the most famous outdoor ice rinks in the world and is amazing during the holidays.
It is located at Rockefeller Plaza and offers a wide range of skating options for visitors, from morning ice skating to evening sessions with special lighting effects.
It is located near Central Park which makes it a great place to visit during a visit to NYC.
The rink also hosts special events like open skate concerts, holiday events and free admission days on weekends.
It’s a popular destination both for locals and tourists alike who come to enjoy its historic atmosphere and amazing views of Manhattan.
It is particularly magical during the festive season when the holiday lights illuminate the night sky above Midtown Manhattan.
Skaters can glide around the rink while taking in the sights of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and the surrounding skyscrapers.
Hampton Court Palace, London
**Big announcement coming soon**
We have something up our sleeves worthy of that #fridayfeeling.
If you haven’t already, make sure to like and follow our Facebook page. #hamptoncourtpalaceicerink #hamptoncourtpalace #announcement #soundthealarm #friyay #iceskating #followus pic.twitter.com/p6UftMzasP— Skate Hampton Court (@PalaceIceRink) September 20, 2019
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is an outdoor skating rink in London.
It is located within the grounds of the historic Hampton Court Palace which was Henry VIII’s home.
This makes it an ideal spot for visitors wanting to enjoy some winter activities while exploring the palace.
There are also public skate sessions during weekends and holidays, so you can get your skates on no matter when you visit.
The rink also offers skate hire, so if you don’t have your own pair of ice skates then you won’t be left out!
If you are visiting London during the winter season make sure to visit Hampton Court for festive treats and hot cocoa.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is truly a magical experience that will keep everyone entertained for hours on end – perfect for those looking for a fun winter activity without having to travel too far from home!
The Frozen Canals of Amsterdam, Netherlands
The canals of Amsterdam are transformed into a winter wonderland during the colder months when they freeze over.
Every few years, when temperatures drop below zero, the canals become frozen solid and locals flock to them for some unique ice skating experiences.
For those brave enough to skate in -15C weather, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of centuries-old architecture as well as a chance to spot some rare wildlife like ospreys or other birds that winter in Amsterdam’s parks and open spaces.
The city also organizes several events on the canals including an annual race where skaters compete against each other for prizes and bragging rights!
Whether it’s for fun or competition, spending time on Amsterdam’s frozen canals is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
The Red Square Ice Rink, Moscow, Russia
Skating on the Red Square, surrounded by the historic buildings of Moscow, is an unforgettable experience.
Located at the heart of the city’s historic Red Square and surrounded by some of Russia’s most important landmarks, the rink offers a unique experience for visitors. Best of all open skating is free in the afternoons.
This popular attraction has been open since 1952 and draws thousands of skaters each year who come to enjoy its large outdoor space as well as various activities like ice dancing or hockey tournaments.
The picturesque setting makes this ice rink one of the best places in the world to practice your moves or simply have a good time with friends and family.
The Rideau Canal Skateway, Ottawa, Canada
The Rideau Canal Skateway in Ottawa, Canada is a world-renowned winter activity destination.
This 7.8 kilometre ice skating rink is the longest in the world and offers stunning views of downtown Ottawa from its position along the Rideau Canal.
The Skateway is open from mid-January to early March depending on weather conditions and offers free admission for everyone to enjoy a day out on the ice.
Visitors can rent skates or bring their own for an unforgettable experience as they glide through this picturesque area of Ottawa. With warming huts conveniently positioned along the way, visitors can take a break before continuing their adventure down this iconic skating rink.
During peak times, snow sculptures are also built by local artists as part of Winterlude celebrations, adding an extra element of entertainment to this unique tourist attraction.
Whether taking a leisurely skate or joining in on one of many special events hosted throughout the season, The Rideau Canal Skateway continues to draw people from all over the world each winter season looking for an unforgettable experience.
Eiffel Tower, Paris
The Eiffel Tower in Paris is known for many attractions, such as its breathtaking views and romantic atmosphere. But one of the most unique attractions it has to offer is ice skating!
Every winter, a rink is set up at the first floor of the iconic tower.
Skaters can enjoy the stunning view from this special vantage point while enjoying the seasonal ice rink (open December to February every year).
This makes it ideal for families who want to share some quality time together on their vacation.
Moreover, there are several restaurants and cafes located nearby where visitors can relax after their skate session and continue enjoying the amazing view of the Eiffel Tower.
The Eisbahn am Bebelplatz, Berlin, Germany
Germany is where the winter village craze started and if you happen to be in Berlin at this time of year, it’s the perfect opportunity for some family fun on an ice rink.
Eisbahn am Neptunbrunnen in Berlin Mitte is a unique and iconic ice skating rink located in the heart of Berlin.
Built around the spectacular fountain, it combines two of the city’s most beloved attractions: ice skating and a beautiful piece of sculpted art that has been standing since 1891.
With its perfect size of just over 800 square meters, the Eisbahn am Neptunbrunnen provides plenty of space for skaters to practice their moves or simply enjoy a leisurely glide on their own.
Additionally, the rink often hosts special events such as live music performances or movie screenings for an even more memorable experience.
During winter months, visitors can also visit unique Christmas markets with food stalls offering everything from traditional German food to international delicacies.
Le Grand Palais des Glaces
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
Le Grand Palais des Glaces in Paris, France is one of the most iconic ice skating rinks in the world.
Located within the famous Grand Palais museum complex, it has been a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike since its opening in 1900.
While it is underrenovation in 2023, it is due to reopen for the season in 2024.
The rink measures an impressive 3300 square meters, making it one of the largest natural ice surfaces in Europe.
It features 4 separate areas – a public area, a space for professional skaters, and two areas reserved for children’s activities and training sessions.
The rink also hosts many special events each year including exhibitions, shows, and competitions such as the World Figure Skating Championships.
Apart from traditional figure skating lessons offered throughout the season, Le Grand Palais des Glaces also provides hockey games on 3 nights per week.
With its grand scale and beautiful setting surrounded by some of Paris’s best-known monuments such as Notre Dame Cathedral and Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile , this historic site is truly a sight to behold at nightfall.
Dubai Mall, UAE
The Dubai Mall ice rink is one of the best in the world, located inside the world’s largest shopping destination.
It offers a unique experience with its Olympic-sized rink and stunning backdrop of Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.
The ice rink offers both recreational skating and figure skating classes for all ages and abilities.
Skaters can also enjoy a range of activities such as laser tag, mini golf, and curling.
There are lessons available for those looking to hone their skills or compete in competitions held throughout the year.
For visitors who don’t want to skate, there are comfortable seats around the rink where they can relax and watch skaters glide across the ice on public sessions during mall opening hours.
The atmosphere is always festive but also extremely safe with experienced staff ensuring that everyone has a great time without any accidents or injuries occurring on the ice.
For more mall skating, make sure to check out my list of 12 Best Malls With Ice Skating Rinks.
Gallivan Center, Salt Lake City, Utah
The Gallivan Center Ice Rink is OPEN today 4-9PM! Come on down! pic.twitter.com/7ISUBpGyVV
— Gallivan Center (@GallivanEvents) February 23, 2023
Gallivan Center is located in Salt Lake City, Utah. It’s one of the few open-air ice rinks in the nation, and it is extremely popular with locals due to its convenient location right downtown.
Add in the beautiful backdrop of the mountains and you have one of the best outdoor rinks in the USA.
The rink offers a variety of activities throughout the winter season, including public skating sessions with live DJs spinning music on select nights.
Skate rentals are included with general admission during public skating hours too!
The plaza also hosts special events during the season such as its annual New Year’s Eve skate party – complete with fireworks!
East Gallivan Plaza is undoubtedly one of the best rinks for outdoor skating anywhere in the world thanks to its great atmosphere, convenient city center location, varied amenities and festive programming that guarantees hours of winter fun for all ages.
These are some of the most famous and beautiful ice rinks around the world that every skater should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Each one offers its own unique experience, from the picturesque canals of Amsterdam to the iconic Rockefeller Center rink in New York City. There’s something for everyone on this list, whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out.
For even more fun ice rinks, make sure to check out these posts:
The Best Hotels With Ice Skating Rinks
12 Best Malls With Ice Skating Rinks
