The Best Places in DC to Lace Up Your Skates for a Winter Outing

Photo: Elvert Barnes

Winter has arrived in full force, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying all that DC has to offer. You could always just lace up your skates and make it a fun winter outing. Here are some of the best places to make that happen:

Washington Harbour Ice Rink

Depending on the weather, DC’s Washington Harbour Ice Rink in Georgetown usually opens in mid-November.  The ice rink has a $10 admission price for adults, and you save a dollar if you’re a child, a senior, or you’re in the military. Washington Harbour Ice Rink offers skate rentals and is usually open from late morning through the evening. The rink typically closes for the season in mid-March.

Sculpture Garden Ice Rink

One of the most picturesque locations for ice skating in DC is the Sculpture Garden Ice Rink. Take a spin out on the ice while taking in views of some of the nation’s most recognizable monuments, museums, and sculptures. The ice rink will likely open for the season the weekend after Thanksgiving and stay open through early March. Sculpture Garden charges $12 for those 13 and older. It’s a bit less expensive for seniors, military, and kids ages 12 and younger. You’ll also pay for skate rentals and locker rentals at Sculpture Garden.

The Wharf Ice Rink

If you’re on the Southwest Waterfront, The Wharf Ice Rink is the only over-water ice skating rink in DC. It’s set to open around Thanksgiving. You can bring your own skates or rent skates. It costs $13 for adults and $10 for kids. If you really enjoy skating, you can buy a season pass. The rink closes for the year in February.

Canal Park Ice Rink

Canal Park Ice Rink usually opens mid-month and stays open for skating every day of the week. Adult admission is $12, kids and seniors are $10, plus you can also rent skates, on-site. This popular skating rink in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood is shaped like the figure eight and sits close to the river.