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Where to Go Ice Skating Near DC: Best Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks for Kids and Families

The rink at Gaylord National Resort is the perfect place to go ice skating in December. Photo by Jennifer Marino Walters
The rink at Gaylord National Resort is the perfect place to go ice skating in December. Photo by Jennifer Marino Walters
11/6/22 - By Jennifer Marino Walters

On a beautiful winter day, what could be more enjoyable than skating around on a fresh sheet of ice? In 2022, families will have plenty of options for ice skating near DC, from rinks that are part of special holiday events to outdoor ice skating rinks near DC that stay open all winter long.

Weather permitting, outdoor ice skating rinks near DC generally open in mid to late November and close in February or March. Many of them also host special skating events, so check the websites for more information. Otherwise, lace up your skates and enjoy ice skating near DC at one of these great rinks. For more fun things to do near DC this winter—from the best ski resorts near DC to the best places to go snow tubing near DC—check out out Winter Activities Guide for DC Kids.

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The popular Sculpture Garden ice rink is back at the Smithsonian National Gallery of Art! Photo courtesy of the National Gallery
The popular Sculpture Garden ice rink is back at the Smithsonian National Gallery of Art! Photo courtesy of the National Gallery

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in DC

The Washington Harbour Ice Rink

Friday, November 11, 2022 - Sunday, March 12, 2023
DC's largest outdoor ice rink welcomes families to enjoy recreational skating in a scenic setting. Penguins for beginner skaters are available for an additional fee. READ MORE

The Wharf Ice Rink

Wednesday - Sundays, November 23, 2022 - February 22, 2023
Enjoy gorgeous views of the water and the DC monuments while skating at DC's only over-water ice skating rink. Rent skates or bring your own, then grab a bite at one of the Wharf's restaurants. READ MORE

Sculpture Garden Ice Rink

Saturday, November 26, 2022 - Sunday, March 5, 2023
The popular ice skating rink in the Smithsonian Sculpture Garden is back this year. Skating sessions for 45 minutes can be booked online. The Pavilion Cafe will also be open with food and seasonal treats like hot chocolate. READ MORE

Enchant Christmas

Friday, November 25, 2022 - Sunday, January 1, 2023
Enchant Christmas includes a giant light maze, a magical ice skating trail, a kids' play place, live music, and a Christmas market and eatery. Kids can also have professional photos taken with Santa and enjoy storytime with Mrs. Claus. READ MORE
Enjoy ice skating with views of the Potomac at Gaylord National Resort. Photo by Jennifer Marino Walters
Enjoy ice skating with views of the Potomac at Gaylord National Resort. Photo by Jennifer Marino Walters

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks Near DC in Maryland

Inner Harbor Ice Rink

Baltimore, MD
Friday, November 11, 2022 - Monday, January 16, 2023
Go for a spin around the ice and enjoy magical water views at Baltimore's Inner Harbor Ice Rink. Keep an eye out for special events at the rink throughout the season. READ MORE

Ice Skating at Gaylord National

National Harbor, MD
Sunday, November 20 - Saturday, December 31, 2022
Enjoy gorgeous views of the Potomac River and the Capital Wheel as you glide on the ice at Gaylord National Harbor's outdoor ice skating rink this holiday season.  READ MORE

Silver Spring Ice Skating

Silver Spring, MD
Daily through Friday, March 31, 2023
This outdoor ice skating rink at Veterans Plaza is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and a movie theater. More than 400 pairs of ice hockey and figure skates are available in sizes 7 toddler to 14 adult, with double-bladed skates offered in toddler sizes 8-13. Private and group skating lessons are offered. READ MORE
Pentagon Row's ice rink is the largest outdoor ice skating rink in Northern Virginia. Photo courtesy of the Pentagon Row Skating Rink
Pentagon Row's ice rink is the largest outdoor ice skating rink in Northern Virginia. Photo courtesy of the Pentagon Row Skating Rink

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks Near DC in Virginia

Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion

Reston, VA
Daily through Sunday, March 12, 2023
The ice skating rink at Reston Town Center offers daily public skating, with extended hours for the holidays. The skate shop has over 500 pairs of skates for rent in both figure and hockey styles, ranging from toddler size 8 through men’s size 15. Beginner skaters can try double-bladed, flat-edge skates to walk across the ice until they’re ready to advance to single-bladed skates. READ MORE

Ice & Lights

Alexandria, VA
Various dates from November 18, 2022 - February 26, 2023
Elaborate light displays, photo ops, ice skating, and more await at Cameron Run's Ice & Lights Winter Village. After the Winter Village closes on January 1, the rink alone will be open for ice skating on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from January 7 through February 26, 2023. READ MORE

Harris Pavilion Ice Skating

Manassas, VA
Various dates from November 18, 2022 - February 26, 2023
Harris Pavilion's ice skating rink is open daily for ice skating through January 2, 2023, then open Wednesdays through Sundays until February 26, 2023. Advance online registration is encouraged. READ MORE

Stonebridge Ice Rink

Woodbridge, VA
Friday, November 18, 2022 - Sunday, February 26, 2023
Make a reservation online fort a 1.5-hour skating session at the outdoor ice skating rink at Stonebridge Potomac Town Center. Skating aids are available on a first-come, first-served basis. READ MORE

Pentagon Row Outdoor Ice Skating

Arlington, VA
Daily through mid March
At 6,840 square feet, Pentagon Row's ice rink is the largest outdoor ice skating rink in Northern Virginia and the second largest in the state. It features an outdoor dual-sided stone fireplace, shops, restaurants, and a coffee shop. READ MORE

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