Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Los Angeles, California (2024)

Yes, you can go ice skating in Los Angeles. The technology to keep ice frozen even in 80-degree weather has led to the creation of outdoor ice skating rinks around the Los Angeles area, creating pseudo-winter fun for everyone. If you're a seasoned skater planning to join in the fun, remember that ice skating doesn't come naturally to Angelenos, so be prepared for lots of beginners of all ages stumbling around the ice.

Each ice rink has its own schedule, some starting as early as the beginning of November and running through February. And each rink has special features that draw in the crowds.

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Irvine Spectrum's Skating Under the Stars Ice Rink

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Los Angeles, California (1)

With a long season overall, Irvine Spectrum's Ice Rink skating under the stars in Orange County, opens November 2, 2018, and runs through January 6, 2019. The rink is under a canopy next to the Ferris wheel at the Irvine Spectrum shopping center, and although it's not a very big space, there's plenty of room for skaters during each 75-minute skating session.

The rink is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas, but special events take place throughout the season including weekly "Themed Thursdays" that encourage guests to come in their Christmas pajamas, Santa's helpers' costumes, and New Yearsparkles. If you come dressed in the costume of the day, your skating is $5 off. VisitSkate Spectrumfor more information on ticketing, prices, and hours of operation.

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ICE at Santa Monica

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Los Angeles, California (2)

While Santa Monica has tons ofthings to do, you won't want to miss ICE at Santa Monica,returning November 3, 2018, and running through January 21, 2019, with 8,000 square feet of real ice. ICE at Santa Monica is located at 1324 5th Street at the corner of 5th and Arizona, and there is also a second 400-square-foot rink for kids 8 and under nearby, both of which featurespecial activities throughout the season.

Lessons are also available for both children and adults through theRandy Gardner's School of Skating,so even if you're not too sure of your skating ability, there's plenty of opportunities to learn at this outdoor rink. Visit theDowntown Santa Monicawebsite for more information on tickets, class schedules, and special events.

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Holiday Ice Rink at Pershing Square

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Los Angeles, California (3)

Holiday Ice Rink at Pershing Square, formerlyDowntown on Ice,is the original Los Angeles outdoor ice rink that started the fad. This 4,500-square-foot ice rink is set up on Pershing Square in front of the Biltmore Hotel, and special attractions include the Winter Holiday Festival, concerts, shows, and more.

The Holiday Ice Rink opensNovember 15, 2018, and runs through January 21, 2019. For a complete list of shows, ticket prices, and hours, visit the officialHoliday Ice Rink Downtown LA website, and if you're looking for other attractions to do in DowntownLos Angeles, check out our comprehensiveguide.

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LA Kings Holiday Ice Locations

With three locations in Los Angeles to choose from—LA Live in Downtown, The Pike Outlet in Long Beach, and the Westfield in Topanga—LA Kings Holiday Ice is a great destination for ice skating no matter which part of the Valley you're in.

Each rink also offersskating and hockey classes weekend mornings and Thursday afternoons. Check the officialLA Kings Holiday Icewebsite for special events, deals, ticketing information, and hours of operation; all locations are open from openNovember 10, 2018 toJanuary 6, 2019, seven days a week, including holidays.

For more information, you can also check out our comprehensiveL.A. Live Visitors Guideor explore more options in ourThings to Do in Downtown Los Angeleslist.

Continue to 5 of 6 below.

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The Rink in Downtown Burbank

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Los Angeles, California (4)

TheRink in Downtown Burbankis returning this year from Thursday, December 13, 2018, through Sunday, January 6, 2019, offering guests a chance to experience the 4,100-square-foot rink located next to City Hall at 3rd Street and Orange Grove in Burbank, CA.

Themed music and entertainment will be scheduled throughout the four weeks the rink is open, and free parking is available at numerous structures in Downtown Burbank. Season passes are available. Visit The Rink official websitefor more information on special events, hours of operation, and ticketing costs.

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Winter Fest OC

Winter Fest OC at the Orange County Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa has moved the ice rink outdoors this year. In addition to outdoor ice skating, you'll find ice tubing, a snow play area for kids, holiday shows, fair rides, a nightly mini-parade,and tree lighting.

Winter Fest OC has half-price ticket days for residents of Orange County cities. Check thewebsiteto see which day is your City Day and to find more information relating to ticketing, hours of operation, and special events coming to the Fest this year. Dates for Winter Fest run from Dec 20, 2018, through Jan 6, 2019.

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Los Angeles, California (2024)

FAQs

Where is the largest outdoor skating rink? ›

The 7.8-km (4.9-mile) Rideau Canal Skateway, which first opened over 50 years ago , opens new tab, is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Canada's capital city Ottawa and is also a top attraction for skating enthusiasts seeking outdoor thrills during Canada's usually biting cold winters.

Are outdoor ice rinks real ice? ›

There are two types of ice rinks in prevalent use today: natural ice rinks, where freezing occurs from cold ambient temperatures, and artificial ice rinks (or mechanically frozen), where a coolant produces cold temperatures underneath the water body(on which the game is played), causing the water body to freeze and ...

Does California have ice rinks? ›

There are a total of 125 Ice skating rinks in California as of June 15, 2024.

Are there fake ice rinks? ›

The History of Synthetic Ice

Synthetic ice, not to be confused with artificial ice, is a solid polymer material. Synthetic ice rinks are constructed with interlocking panels and designed to be used with traditional, metal skates. Artificial, or man-made ice, is what you typically find at indoor ice rinks.

What is the longest outdoor skating trail? ›

In 2014, Lake Windermere Whiteway was named the World's Longest Skating Trail by Guinness World Records! Join history and go for a skate on one of four loops. Find more information and ice conditions via Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club. Enjoy the sprawling 30km trail network weaving along Lake Windermere.

How do outdoor ice rinks stay frozen? ›

How does an ice rink stay frozen? The most common method of refrigeration used in keeping an ice rink frozen is an indirect refrigeration system. This is where a liquid refrigerant (often ammonia) absorbs heat from a secondary liquid (often brine) which has absorbed heat from the source.

How thick is the ice in an outdoor rink? ›

How thick does the ice have to be? A minimum of 2'' (two inches) thick for the ice to stay solid and hold the weight of a 300lb person is required. For the municipal rinks, we recommend at least 3'' (three inches).

What temperature for an outdoor ice rink? ›

Ideally, you'll start your rink when the daytime high is -5C or below, with the nighttime temperature dipping below -10C. At these cold temps, your ice should form in 2-3 days. If you're fortunate enough to experience a daily temperature range of -10°C to -20°C, you'll have a solid ice base in no time.

Can I wear jeans to an ice rink? ›

Remember to avoid anything too baggy or long that may get in the way of your skates. Jeans are a big no when it comes to ice skating. Tight jeans will restrict your movement and take longer to dry after a fall on the ice. Instead, stick to thermal pants and sweatpants to protect the bottom half of your body.

Does ice operate in California? ›

However, despite insinuations from opponents, the law does not prevent ICE and Homeland Security personnel from performing their duties within the state, and ICE agents are still allowed to enter state prisons, conduct interviews at county jails, and access data relative to a detainee's release date.

Do ice rinks make a profit? ›

Revenue will depend on size, programs offered, and community demand. Public skates, lessons, concessions, pro shop sales, hockey leagues, and facility rentals can all contribute profits. Many rinks generate $500,000 to several million in annual revenue. Profit margins are usually 20–30% or more.

Are ice rinks toxic? ›

In enclosed ice arenas, a primary source of indoor air concerns is the release of combustion pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM) into the indoor air from the exhaust of fuel-fired ice resurfacers.

Does synthetic ice ruin blades? ›

Synthetic ice cannot and should not ruin your skates. However, the synthetic surface may dull the blade more than the natural ice. Don't worry, you just have to sharpen your blades based on how often you skate.

Where is the biggest roller rink in the United States? ›

Latham, New York

In Upstate New York, Guptill's holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest indoor skating rink.

Does Chicago have an outdoor ice skating rink? ›

Throughout the winter season, you can stay active outdoors while enjoying a fun time with family and friends at one of six outdoor ice rinks located throughout the city.

Is the Rideau Canal open in 2024? ›

Parks Canada is pleased to welcome all new and returning visitors to the 192nd navigation season on the Rideau Canal National Historic Site of Canada on Friday, May 17.

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