If you’re looking to enjoy the crisp winter air and glide across the ice, then you’re in luck – Chicago offers some of the best outdoor ice skating rinks in the city and its surrounding suburbs. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, these rinks provide a picturesque backdrop for a fun-filled day on the ice. From Millennium Park’s iconic ice rink to the unique experiences at Navy Pier and Maggie Daley Park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your skates, bundle up, and get ready for a memorable skating adventure in the Windy City.
Millennium Park Ice Rink
Location and Hours
The Millennium Park Ice Rink is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, offering a picturesque skating experience against the stunning backdrop of the city skyline. The rink is situated within Millennium Park, which is easily accessible for both locals and tourists. It is located between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive, making it convenient for those exploring the city or shopping along the Magnificent Mile. The rink operates during the winter season, typically from November to March, and is open every day, including holidays.
Skating Lessons
If you are new to ice skating or want to brush up on your skills, the Millennium Park Ice Rink offers skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or an advanced skater striving to perfect your technique, there are classes available to cater to your needs. Experienced instructors provide personalized guidance in a safe and supportive environment, ensuring that you feel comfortable on the ice while progressing at your own pace.
Skate Rentals
Don’t worry if you don’t have your own skates, as the Millennium Park Ice Rink offers skate rentals. You can easily rent skates on-site, allowing you to enjoy a day of skating without the need to bring your own equipment. The rental process is efficient and convenient, making it accessible for everyone. Plus, the skates provided are well-maintained and available in various sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for both adults and children.
Special Events
Beyond regular skating sessions, the Millennium Park Ice Rink hosts a range of special events throughout the season. From themed skate nights to live performances, there is always something exciting happening at the rink. These events add a festive atmosphere to your skating experience, making it even more enjoyable for families, couples, and friends alike. Keep an eye on the rink’s schedule to make sure you don’t miss out on any upcoming events that interest you.
Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon
Location and Hours
Nestled in the stunning Maggie Daley Park, the Ice Skating Ribbon offers a unique and unforgettable skating experience. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, this ribbon-shaped ice rink winds through the park, allowing skaters to weave through beautiful landscapes and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city. The Ice Skating Ribbon operates during the winter season, typically from November to March, and is open every day, including holidays, offering plenty of opportunities to skate.
Skating Experience
Skating on the Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon is a truly immersive experience. The winding path offers a dynamic and ever-changing skating environment, keeping things exciting and engaging for skaters of all ages. As you glide along the ribbon, you’ll be surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, decorative lighting, and beautiful gardens. Whether you’re skating under the bright sunshine or twinkling stars, the setting creates a magical and romantic atmosphere that adds to the overall enjoyment of the experience.
Skate Rentals
For those who don’t have their own skates, the Ice Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park provides skate rentals. The rental process is efficient and simple, ensuring that you can quickly get on the ice and start enjoying your skating adventure. The skates available for rent are well-maintained and come in various sizes to accommodate both adults and children. With rentals conveniently available on-site, you won’t need to worry about bringing your own skates or missing out on the fun.
Programs and Activities
Besides regular skating sessions, the Ice Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park offers various programs and activities to enhance your skating experience. Whether you’re interested in ice hockey, ice dance, or simply improving your skating skills, there are programs available for all levels. Additionally, the park hosts special events throughout the season, such as skating exhibitions and themed nights, adding a touch of excitement and entertainment. These programs and activities cater to different interests, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Ice Skating Ribbon.
Wicker Park
Location and Hours
Wicker Park is a vibrant neighborhood in Chicago known for its hip atmosphere and diverse community. During the winter months, the park transforms into a hub for outdoor ice skating, attracting locals and visitors alike. Located on the corner of Damen Avenue and Wicker Park Avenue, the ice rink in Wicker Park offers a convenient location for those in the surrounding area or anyone looking to explore the neighborhood. The rink typically operates during the winter season, starting from November and closing in March, providing plenty of opportunities for ice skating enjoyment.
Skating Information
The Wicker Park ice rink provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere for ice skating enthusiasts. The rink is well-maintained and offers a smooth surface for skaters to glide on. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, there is space for everyone to enjoy and practice their skills. The park also ensures that the rink remains safe and secure for all visitors, implementing measures to maintain ice quality and monitor capacity during busy times.
Skate Rentals
If you don’t have your own skates, don’t worry! The Wicker Park ice rink offers skate rentals, allowing you to enjoy a day of skating without the hassle of bringing your own equipment. The rental process is straightforward and efficient, ensuring that you can quickly get on the ice and start skating. The skates provided are regularly maintained and available in various sizes, accommodating both adults and children. With the convenience of on-site rentals, Wicker Park makes it easy for everyone to enjoy a day of outdoor ice skating.
Nearby Amenities
Wicker Park is not just an ice rink; it’s a neighborhood hub with a variety of amenities to enhance your skating experience. After a day of skating, you can explore the surrounding area and discover a range of local shops, cafes, and restaurants. Grab a warm cup of coffee or indulge in a delicious meal to recharge and unwind. The park is also well-connected to public transportation, making it easily accessible for those traveling from different parts of the city. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with friends or a cozy date night, Wicker Park offers the perfect blend of skating and urban exploration.
The Rink at Cantera
Location and Hours
Located in Warrenville, just outside of Chicago, The Rink at Cantera offers a fantastic winter skating experience for residents of the suburbs. This outdoor ice rink is conveniently situated within the Cantera shopping complex, making it easily accessible for those in the area. The rink operates during the winter season, typically from November to March, and has flexible hours to accommodate skaters of all ages, skill levels, and schedules.
Skating Facilities
The Rink at Cantera boasts top-notch skating facilities, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors. The ice rink is meticulously maintained, providing a smooth and safe surface for skaters. Whether you’re practicing your triple axel or taking your first wobbly steps on the ice, the spacious rink offers plenty of room to glide and enjoy the frosty surroundings. The facilities also include well-lit areas and seating for spectators, making it a great place for friends and family to gather and cheer on their skaters.
Skating Lessons
If you’re looking to improve your skating skills or learn how to skate from scratch, The Rink at Cantera offers skating lessons for all ages and abilities. Experienced instructors provide personalized guidance, focusing on proper technique and building confidence on the ice. Whether you want to learn basic skating skills, figure skating, or even ice hockey, there are programs available to cater to your interests. These lessons are a great way to enhance your skating abilities and make the most of your time at The Rink at Cantera.
Special Offers
The Rink at Cantera often runs special offers and promotions throughout the season, making it an affordable option for families and individuals. Keep an eye out for discounted admission rates, group packages, and seasonal passes, which can help you save money while enjoying endless hours of skating fun. These special offers make The Rink at Cantera a popular choice among locals and provide an excellent opportunity for skaters to make the most of their winter season.
Parks at Rosemont
Location and Hours
The Parks at Rosemont is an expansive recreational complex located in the suburb of Rosemont, just a short drive from downtown Chicago. The complex features both outdoor and indoor ice skating rinks, providing a range of skating options for visitors. The rinks operate during the winter season, starting from November and typically closing in March, offering ample opportunities for skaters to enjoy the ice.
Outdoor Skating Rinks
The Parks at Rosemont boasts well-maintained outdoor skating rinks, allowing skaters to embrace the winter landscape while enjoying their favorite activity. These rinks offer a spacious and atmospheric setting, providing a delightful experience for individuals, families, and groups of friends. With the crisp winter air and the scenic surroundings, outdoor skating at the Parks at Rosemont offers the perfect opportunity to embrace the season and create lasting memories.
Indoor Skating Rinks
In addition to the outdoor rinks, the Parks at Rosemont also features indoor skating rinks. These rinks provide a temperature-controlled environment, ensuring that you can skate comfortably regardless of the weather outside. The indoor facilities offer a smooth ice surface, ideal for various skating activities, from casual leisure skating to more advanced techniques. Whether you prefer to skate under the open sky or in a climate-controlled arena, the Parks at Rosemont has options to suit every skating preference.
Skate Rentals
For those who don’t have their own skates, the Parks at Rosemont offers skate rentals. You can easily rent skates on-site, providing a convenient option for visitors who want to enjoy a day of skating without the need to bring their own equipment. The rental process is efficient and hassle-free, with a range of skate sizes available for both adults and children. By offering skate rentals, the Parks at Rosemont ensures that everyone can participate in the joy of skating, regardless of whether they own their own skates or not.
Skate on State
Location and Hours
Skate on State is a popular outdoor ice rink located in the heart of downtown Rockford, a city just outside of Chicago. This seasonal ice rink aims to bring the joy of ice skating to the community and create a festive atmosphere during the holiday season. Skate on State is typically open from late November until early January, providing a limited window of opportunity to lace up your skates and glide across the ice.
Downtown Holiday Celebration
One of the highlights of Skate on State is the downtown holiday celebration that surrounds the ice rink. As you skate, you’ll be immersed in a vibrant atmosphere filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and joyful music. The surrounding area features a variety of holiday-themed attractions, including a Christmas tree, Santa’s workshop, and seasonal food vendors. Skate on State truly captures the essence of the holiday season, making it a must-visit destination for families, friends, and couples seeking a magical winter experience.
Entertainment
Skate on State offers more than just a skating experience. The rink often hosts live entertainment, including music performances and ice skating exhibitions. Skaters can enjoy these spectacles while gliding across the ice, adding an extra element of excitement to their skating adventure. Whether you’re watching skilled figure skaters twirl and leap or grooving to the beat of live music, the entertainment at Skate on State enhances the overall experience, making your visit even more memorable.
Food Vendors
No outing is complete without some delicious treats, and Skate on State has you covered in that department. The rink features a variety of food vendors serving up seasonal delights to satisfy your taste buds. From piping hot cocoa to warm and savory snacks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These food vendors add to the festive ambiance of the event, allowing you to refuel and warm up before or after your skating session. So, be sure to treat yourself to some tasty treats as you celebrate the holiday season at Skate on State.
Warren Park Winter Arts and Crafts Fair
Location and Hours
Warren Park Winter Arts and Crafts Fair is an annual event held in the vibrant neighborhood of West Rogers Park. The fair takes place in Warren Park, a beautiful green oasis in the city, offering a picturesque setting for attendees to enjoy. The fair typically occurs during the winter season, providing the perfect opportunity to combine a day of ice skating with some festive shopping. Be sure to check the event’s schedule for specific dates and hours.
Ice Skating Rink
One of the main attractions of Warren Park Winter Arts and Crafts Fair is the ice skating rink. The rink is meticulously maintained, offering a smooth surface for skaters of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced skater or just starting out, the rink provides ample space for everyone to enjoy and practice their moves. Skating at the fair adds an extra layer of excitement and festivity, making it a fun and unique way to experience winter in Chicago.
Arts and Crafts Fair
In addition to the ice skating rink, the Warren Park Winter Arts and Crafts Fair also features a diverse range of vendors showcasing their handcrafted creations. From unique jewelry and artwork to homemade candles and textiles, the fair offers a wonderful opportunity to support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind gifts or special treats for yourself. Browsing through the stalls and discovering the wide variety of handmade items adds a touch of creativity and charm to your visit.
Food and Refreshments
No fair is complete without delicious food and refreshments, and the Warren Park Winter Arts and Crafts Fair does not disappoint in this regard. The fair typically features a selection of food vendors offering a diverse range of culinary delights. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot cup of cocoa, a savory snack, or a sweet treat, there will be something to satisfy your cravings. As you explore the fair, take the opportunity to indulge in the delectable food options and give yourself a well-deserved break.
Midway Plaisance Ice Skating Rinks
Location and Hours
The Midway Plaisance Ice Skating Rinks are nestled within the historic Midway Plaisance, a picturesque park located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. With its rich history and stunning architecture, the park provides a unique backdrop for a day of outdoor ice skating. The ice rinks typically operate during the winter season, offering both public skate sessions and dedicated times for figure skating.
Public Skate
The Midway Plaisance Ice Skating Rinks offer dedicated public skate sessions, allowing individuals, families, and friends to enjoy the ice. The rinks are spacious and well-maintained, providing a smooth surface for skaters of all skill levels to glide on. Whether you prefer leisurely skating or more energetic laps around the rink, there is plenty of space for everyone to enjoy their preferred style of skating. The public skate sessions offer a fun and inclusive atmosphere, making it a great activity for people of all ages and abilities.
Figure Skating
For those with a passion for figure skating, the Midway Plaisance Ice Skating Rinks offer dedicated times for this graceful sport. Whether you’re a seasoned figure skater or looking to improve your skills, these specific sessions provide an opportunity to practice jumps, spins, and artistic routines in a supportive environment. The rinks’ smooth ice surface and spacious layout allow for beautiful movements and seamless transitions, enhancing the figure skating experience.
Skate Sharpening
To ensure the best performance on the ice, the Midway Plaisance Ice Skating Rinks provide skate sharpening services. Skates tend to dull over time with use, which can affect your balance and ability to glide smoothly. By utilizing the skate sharpening services offered at the rinks, you can ensure that your skates are in optimal condition, allowing you to skate with ease and confidence. This convenient service saves you the hassle of searching for a skate sharpening shop and guarantees that you’re always ready to hit the ice.
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Location and Hours
The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is a beloved winter attraction located in Chicago’s iconic Millennium Park. Situated in the heart of the city and surrounded by stunning architecture, this outdoor ice rink offers a picturesque setting for ice skating enthusiasts. The rink typically operates during the winter season, opening in November and remaining open until March. With its central location and convenient hours, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Skate Rentals
If you don’t have your own skates, don’t worry! The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink offers skate rentals to ensure that everyone can enjoy a day of skating. The rental process is efficient and hassle-free, with a wide range of sizes available for both adults and children. The skates provided are well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable fit and optimal performance on the ice. With the convenience of on-site rentals, the rink makes it easy for everyone to experience the joy of gliding across the ice.
Ice Skating Classes
Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or a seasoned skater striving to improve your skills, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink offers ice skating classes for all ages and abilities. These classes are led by experienced instructors who provide personalized guidance and support. Whether you’re looking to master your balance, learn new skating techniques, or even prepare for competitive figure skating, the classes cater to a wide range of interests and goals. Skating classes at the rink are a fantastic way to enhance your skating abilities and gain confidence on the ice.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink prides itself on its family-friendly atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for a day of winter fun with loved ones. The rink welcomes skaters of all ages and skill levels, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and included. Parents can enjoy skating alongside their children, creating cherished memories and a shared bond. The rink’s welcoming ambiance and stunning surroundings contribute to a joyful and festive experience that the whole family can enjoy. So bundle up, grab your skates, and head to the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink for a day of winter wonder.
Oak Park Ice Arena
Location and Hours
The Oak Park Ice Arena is a premier ice skating facility located in the suburb of Oak Park, just west of downtown Chicago. This indoor ice rink offers a climate-controlled environment, ensuring that you can skate comfortably regardless of the weather outside. The arena is conveniently situated and easily accessible for residents of Oak Park and surrounding areas. The rink operates throughout the year, providing consistent opportunities for ice skating enjoyment.
Public Skating
The Oak Park Ice Arena offers dedicated public skate sessions, allowing individuals and families to enjoy the ice at their own pace. The arena’s spacious ice surface provides ample room for skaters of all ages and abilities to glide, spin, and practice their moves. Whether you’re a veteran skater or just starting out, public skate sessions offer a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere, making it an enjoyable activity for everyone. The sessions are scheduled at various times throughout the week, ensuring that you can find a time that fits your schedule.
Learn to Skate Programs
If you’re new to ice skating or looking to improve your skills, the Oak Park Ice Arena offers a comprehensive range of Learn to Skate programs. These programs cater to individuals of all ages, from young children to adults. Whether you’re looking for group lessons or private instruction, there are programs available to suit your needs. Dedicated instructors provide guidance and support, focusing on building proper technique and confidence on the ice. By participating in these programs, you can develop your skills and gain a strong foundation in ice skating.
Birthday Party Packages
The Oak Park Ice Arena provides unique birthday party packages for those looking to celebrate their special day with a fun and exciting ice skating experience. The packages include ice time for skating, party room rental for food and celebrations, and the option to customize the party with add-on features. Skating-themed birthday parties at the arena offer a memorable and enjoyable experience for guests of all ages. With dedicated staff to facilitate the event and ensure a smooth celebration, all you have to do is focus on having a fantastic time with friends and family.
In conclusion, Chicago offers an array of outdoor and indoor ice skating rinks, each with its own unique offerings and experiences. From the iconic Millennium Park Ice Rink to the winding Ice Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park, these rinks provide an opportunity to embrace the winter season and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, there are options for all ages and skill levels, as well as programs and activities to enhance your skating experience. So grab your skates, bundle up, and immerse yourself in the joy of ice skating at these fantastic rinks in Chicago and its suburbs.