When the temperature drops, city streets transform into shimmering skating scenes that capture the magic of winter. From waterfront views in Washington, DC, to skyline-backed ice in Chicago, these seasonal rinks bring locals and out-of-town visitors together for timeless cold-weather fun.
Whether gliding under string lights in Bryant Park or looping through Toledo’s trail-style Ribbon, here are five of the most iconic big-city ice rinks to visit this winter — each with its own signature charm.
Davis Center at the Harlem Meer Ice Rink — New York City, NY
The Davis Center replaces the older Lasker Rink and Pool, offering a significant makeover of the North end of Central Park. The facility features a pool that converts to a rink in winter, outdoor activities, sustainable design elements, and community programming.
What Sets It Apart
A cutting-edge redevelopment blends ice skating, nature, and landscape architecture at the upper tip of Central Park — ideal for those seeking less-crowded NYC skating with new-facility amenities.
Cool Offerings
- My Tot & Me
- Learn to Skate basic skills 1-8
- Adult hockey clinic
- Open hockey
- Adult hockey league
- Figure skating
- Community skate
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink at Millennium Park — Chicago, Illinois
Right in downtown Chicago’s Millennium Park, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink offers special free admission to guests who bring their own skates (weather permitting) on a 15,910-sq-ft rink under the city skyline. Reservations required and skate rental available.
What Sets It Apart
The impressive urban backdrop of Chicago’s skyscrapers is combined with a public-access skating experience in the heart of the city.
Cool Offerings
- $5 admission for most evening and weekend sessions
- Free skating lessons
- Food and beverages are available from Momentum Coffee and Millennium Hall near the rink
The Ribbon at Glass City Metropark — Toledo, Ohio
Located in the sprawling Glass City Metropark, this refrigerated 1,000-foot loop, known as The Ribbon, and its adjacent 5,000-square-foot rink, called “The Pond,” offer family fun for Toledo residents and visitors throughout the winter. The unique loop layout means the experience is more than a flat rink — it’s a gentle rolling trail for skating.
What Sets It Apart
A trail-style skating surface rather than a traditional rectangular rink — perfect for a different winter outing.
Cool Offerings
- Daily skate sessions
- Fun winter events
- Cabana rental packages available
- Skate sessions, pricing, and skate rentals for a variety of ages
- Skate aids available
- Mini-Zam toddler carts
- Adaptive sleds are free upon request
The Rink at Bryant Park — New York
A centerpiece of the Bank of America Winter Village, the Bryant Park rink is a 17,000-sq-ft free-admission ice surface in Midtown Manhattan, flanked by holiday shops, “The Lodge” café, and winter programming — open daily (weather permitting) during the season.
What Sets It Apart
One of the few large urban rinks in NYC with free standard-admission skating—plus the full Winter Village shopping and dining experience.
Cool Offerings
- Bank of America cardholder discount on skate rentals
- Skate lessons
- Skate rentals
Washington Harbour Ice Rink — Washington, DC
Set on the scenic Georgetown waterfront, the Washington Harbour Ice Rink transforms the area’s fountain plaza into DC’s largest outdoor ice-skating zone each winter. With views of the Potomac and nearby restaurants, Washington Harbour Ice Rink offers 90-minute public sessions, rentals, and private ice blocks for groups.
What Sets It Apart
The waterfront view and Georgetown experience make it ideal for both families and romantic date nights.
Cool Offerings
- Morning and evening rental space
- Group admission pricing
- Skate Hosts available to assist with your event
- No charge for spectators/non-skaters
Bring Your Seasonal Ice Rink Vision to Life
Inspired by these iconic rinks? Whether upgrading an existing facility or planning a new winter attraction, a thoughtfully designed and operated seasonal ice rink can become a centerpiece of community connection and economic growth. With the right design, amenities, and programming, your rink can engage visitors throughout the entire season.
Partner with Ice Rink Development Experts
At The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), we specialize in planning, funding, and operating ice rinks and winter recreation venues that energize communities. From feasibility studies and design to construction oversight and management, our experts turn seasonal concepts into lasting assets.
Let’s create a destination that brings families together and drives year-round impact. Contact SFC to update, design, or operate a seasonal ice-skating facility that transforms your community for winters — and generations — to come.
