Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks Around the World You Need to Experience

2 December 2025

There’s something irresistibly magical about lacing up a pair of skates and gliding across an outdoor rink with the crisp air biting your cheeks and fairy lights twinkling above. Whether you're a figure-skating virtuoso or someone who clings to the railings for dear life, ice skating outdoors is an experience that blends winter charm with cultural flavor.

Ready to chase that chilled adrenaline rush around the globe? Let’s dive into some of the most iconic, unforgettable, and breathtaking outdoor ice skating rinks around the world you absolutely need to experience at least once in your life.

Why Outdoor Ice Skating Is So Darn Special

Alright, let’s get this out of the way upfront. Ice skating indoors? Cool. Ice skating outdoors in the shadow of historical landmarks, mountain ranges, or city skylines? Next level.

It’s more than just a winter activity. Outdoor rinks are like time machines—they whisk you back to simpler days filled with hot cocoa, laughter, and the kind of festive spirit that makes winter bearable.

Plus, each rink has its own personality. Some are set in bustling cities while others are nestled in remote alpine villages. What they all have in common, though, is the unmistakable magic of winter wonderland vibes.

1. Rockefeller Center – New York City, USA

You knew this was coming, right?

The Rockefeller Center ice skating rink in NYC is practically a holiday celebrity. Nestled in Midtown Manhattan, this rink is flanked by skyscrapers, with the iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree lighting up the skyline.

Yeah, it’s touristy. Yeah, it gets busy. But there’s a reason people keep coming back year after year.

Picture this: you're gliding on the ice, a giant golden Prometheus statue keeping watch, holiday tunes in the background, and a magnificent fir tree sparkling like it’s straight out of a movie. It’s cliché, but it’s a good cliché.

Best Time to Go

Mid-November through January. Try to go early morning on weekdays to skip the crowds.

2. Rideau Canal – Ottawa, Canada

Now we shift from urban glitz to natural marvel. When the Rideau Canal freezes over each winter, it transforms into the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink—a whopping 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles) of icy goodness.

Skating here isn’t just a winter activity—it’s a Canadian rite of passage.

Oh, and did I mention it’s free? Just bring your skates and get ready to glide past Parliament buildings, snow-covered trees, and locals munching on warm BeaverTails (do NOT leave without trying one!).

Pro Tip

Bring a backpack with snacks and consider renting a sled for your gear. It can be a bit of a trek if you’re doing the full route!

3. Lake Louise – Alberta, Canada

Staying in Canada (because, let’s face it, they rule winter), let’s head to Lake Louise in Banff National Park.

Imagine skating on a frozen, turquoise lake with the snow-draped Canadian Rockies forming a jaw-dropping backdrop. This is real-life postcard material.

The surroundings are so surreal, you half expect a Disney princess to skate by with a talking snowman.

Bonus Perks

There’s a full-on ice castle built nearby and nightly bonfires where you can warm up post-spin.

4. Somerset House – London, England

Warning: this rink is style and class all the way through.

Somerset House in London is a neoclassical building that’s beautiful even without ice. But come winter, the courtyard is flooded and transformed into one of Europe’s most elegant rinks.

There’s an on-site Fortnum & Mason bar too, so you can sip champagne or enjoy mulled wine under a sparkling sky.

Why You’ll Love It

It's a blend of British charm, architecture, and festive flair. Also, the DJ nights add a modern twist to this timeless escape.

5. Red Square Ice Rink – Moscow, Russia

You haven’t truly ice skated until you’ve done it in Red Square.

Set against the stunning St. Basil’s Cathedral and the GUM Department Store, this rink screams fairy tale with a dash of imperial grandeur.

While the cold here is not for the faint of heart (we’re talking sub-zero REALNESS), the magical lights and festive markets make it totally worth it.

Local Tip

Go at night for the full enchantment. The whole square lights up, and the vibe is pure winter magic.

6. Eiffel Tower Ice Rink – Paris, France

Yes, you read that right. There’s an ice rink on the Eiffel Tower.

Roughly 57 meters above the ground, this pop-up rink lets you skate while overlooking one of the most romantic cities in the world. It’s small (obviously—it’s on a tower!), but it’s intimate, exclusive, and, honestly, kind of surreal.

What Makes It Special

Skating at altitude with the Paris skyline lit up below you? Bucket list material.

7. Kungsträdgården – Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm does winter RIGHT. And the Kungsträdgården rink is as cozy as it is beautiful.

Nestled in the heart of the city, surrounded by trees strung with fairy lights, this rink offers free admission (you only pay to rent skates). Locals love it because it’s easily accessible, sociable, and loaded with charm.

Plus, the Swedish know how to do winter style right—fuzzy beanies, stylish scarves, and cinnamon buns galore.

8. Vienna Ice Dream – Vienna, Austria

Even the name sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?

The Wiener Eistraum (Vienna Ice Dream) transforms the Rathausplatz in front of the city’s grand City Hall into a magical ice kingdom each winter. We’re talking multiple interconnected rinks, winding skate paths, and over 9,000 square meters of ice.

Add in stalls selling Glühwein and bratwurst? Chef’s kiss.

Don’t Miss

The lights on the trees in the park. It’s like skating through a glowing forest.

9. Ice Rink at Nathan Phillips Square – Toronto, Canada

Yep, Canada again. They don’t play when it comes to ice.

Right in the heart of downtown Toronto, this rink sits in front of Toronto’s City Hall and the giant illuminated Toronto sign (hello, Instagram!).

It’s a city rink with big vibes. The crowd is diverse, the music’s upbeat, and food trucks often hang nearby. Plus, after your skate, you can duck into one of the many nearby cafés for a warming latte.

10. Tower of London Ice Rink – London, England

Skating next to one of the most iconic landmarks in British history? Yes, please.

This rink pops up in the dry moat of the Tower of London every winter, giving you a full-on medieval backdrop while you do your wobbly pirouettes. It’s less crowded than Somerset House and just as breathtaking in its own way.

11. Ice Rink in Central Park – New York City, USA

Can’t talk about iconic rinks without mentioning Wollman Rink in Central Park. With the Manhattan skyline towering behind you and the peacefulness of the park surrounding you, it’s a perfect city-meets-nature moment.

The views are killer (especially at sunset), and it’s ideal for a cute date or a fun family outing.

12. Ice Rink at the Natural History Museum – London, England (Closed After 2021 but Honorable Mention)

We have to pay our respects to one of the UK’s most charming (now-retired) skating rinks. With a gorgeous historic backdrop and twinkling lights, this rink gave thousands of people incredible holiday memories over the years.

What to Pack for Outdoor Skating Adventures

Thinking of trying out a few of these rinks? Pack smart!

- Warm Layers: Think thermal shirts, fleece, and waterproof outerwear.
- Touchscreen Gloves: You WILL want to take pics.
- Thick Socks: Blisters are NOT magical.
- Ice Grippers or Traction Cleats: For walking on icy paths.
- Snacks and Hot Beverages: Some spots are remote!

Tips for Beginners (Because We’ve All Been There)

Look, not all of us are born to be on ice. Here’s how to fake it 'til you make it:

- Bend your knees slightly – keeps your balance in check.
- Arms out, not flailing – think airplane, not windmill.
- Don’t look down – trust your feet.
- Fall small – tuck in and aim for that soft hoodie landing.

Most importantly, laugh when you fall. It makes the bruises way less painful.

Why Ice Skating Rinks Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

Travel shouldn’t always be about ticking off landmarks or stuffing your face (though, hey—we love that too!). It should also be about unique experiences, and few things capture the spirit of a winter destination better than an outdoor ice skating rink.

Every rink tells a story. It’s community, culture, history, and holiday spirit all blurred together under a purple winter sky. Whether you’re spinning like a pro or clutching the rail with frozen fingers, you’re part of something bigger.

So next time you're planning a winter trip, ask yourself: “Where’s the nearest rink?”

Chances are, the answer will lead to an unforgettable adventure.