Glide into Winter at Atlanta’s Top Ice Skating Destinations (1/4)

Once the turkey is gone and winter weather begins to creep in and wrap the city in its chilly embrace, it is time for one of the season’s favorite traditions – ice skating! There is something inherently fun and romantic about this holiday pastime. Perhaps it is the combination of wintery atmosphere and sparkling lights, or maybe it is the festive setting and delicious apres-skate treats that make it so endearing. One thing is for certain, however, due to the South’s relatively mild winters, outdoor ice skating is only available for a short period of time, so grab your skates and get ready to glide across the ice while the opportunity exists this season.

No matter whether you are an ice skating enthusiast or it is your first time, Atlanta boasts several fantastic spots to indulge in this exhilarating winter activity. From a family-friendly adventure to a quiet date night, there are plenty of options around the city to find the experience you are looking for. Whether it is a picturesque outdoor rink or the convenience of an indoor facility, add to your holiday cheer by getting out and visiting one of the terrific ice skating rinks around Metro Atlanta. Not only do they provide an opportunity to embrace the winter season, but they also create lasting memories in the heart of this vibrant city. So, lace up those skates and embrace the magic of winter at Atlanta’s finest ice skating locales.

• Centennial Olympic Park Ice Rink – Nestled in the heart of downtown Atlanta, the Centennial Olympic Park Ice Rink is a cherished seasonal attraction. Set against the backdrop of the city’s skyline, this outdoor rink is open through January 30 for $7 admission, $2 skate rental and select $6 college nights. It provides an enchanting experience for skaters of all skill levels. Surrounded by the festive lights of the park, visitors can twirl and glide on the ice amid a vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to take in the stunning views while creating unforgettable memories.

• The Rink at Park Tavern – For those seeking a unique ice skating adventure, The Rink at Park Tavern in Piedmont Park is an absolute gem. With a spacious rink and a lively ambiance, this location offers not only ice skating but also special events, themed nights and cozy fire pits for a post-skating warm-up. Open Thanksgiving weekend through January 15, 2024, this rink offers the scenic backdrop of Piedmont Park as an extra layer of charm, making it an ideal spot for a delightful winter outing.

• Avalon on Ice – Venture to Alpharetta to discover Avalon on Ice, a Rockefeller Center-inspired outdoor ice skating rink located within the Avalon shopping district. Surrounded by upscale shops and restaurants, this rink exudes a festive vibe that complements the holiday season perfectly. Open November 19 and running through January 15, 2024, skaters can enjoy the music, lights and a variety of nearby amenities, making it a fantastic destination for families and friends to revel in the winter spirit together.

• Skate the Station at Atlantic Station – Skate the Station returns to Atlantic Station for another season. The rink opens November 17 and remains open through January 15, 2024. The largest outdoor skating rink in Metro Atlanta, Atlantic Station’s Ice Skating Rink offers a dynamic skating experience coupled with the convenience of its location. This open-air rink boasts a modern setup and hosts special events throughout the season. Its proximity to shopping, dining and entertainment options within Atlantic Station makes it an excellent choice for a full day of fun-filled activities.

• Astor Holiday Rink – With white twinkling lights and a fireplace to toast s’mores, the Astor Holiday Ice Rink is the perfect backdrop for holiday skating. The outdoor rink is located on the seventh floor of The St. Regis Atlanta hotel in Buckhead and offers a complete experience with holiday music, hot cocoa and a full menu for lunch and dinner. Even on warmer days, the rink stays frozen solid due to the unique treatment of their ice. The smaller size of the rink and limited number of skaters per session make this a better choice for families with younger children. Open from November 24 through January 3, the cost is $30 per hour for adults and $18 per hour for children under 16.

• Skate the Sky at Ponce City Market – No one does festivities quite like the Ponce City Market Rooftop. And for the holiday season, they have transformed the roof into an incredible ice skating rink so you can Skate the Sky! This winter dreamland is not to be missed. Skate the day away and then enjoy a delicious meal in a private igloo. And this year, The Roof is introducing Friday Night Ice where a DJ will be playing your favorite songs from the 80s, 90s and more during our 21+ Friday skate times. Skate the Sky opens on November 24 and will remain open through January 7, 2024.

• The Cooler Family Skate Center – For those preferring an indoor skating experience, The Cooler Family Skate Center in Alpharetta is the go-to destination. Featuring NHL-sized rinks and a welcoming atmosphere, this facility offers public skating sessions, lessons and hockey programs. It’s an ideal spot for families, groups or individuals looking to enjoy ice skating in a climate-controlled environment.

• Skate Sandy Springs – Come glide, shuffle or do the hustle on this outdoor rink on the City Green in Sandy Springs. In its inaugural year, Skate City Springs offers outdoor skating from November 24 through January 21, 2024, along with hot chocolate and snacks for sale. The adult fee is $15 per hour, and the fee for children ages 2 to 10 is $13 per hour, which includes skate rental.

• Covington Ice Days – You are going to love the real ice that’s featured in Covington’s Legion Field Fair Grounds skating rink. And if you time your visit right, you may even get to spot the Zamboni. This outdoor rink is 100% covered, so it’s open no matter the weather. Plus, you can just show up and skate; no reservations or waiting is necessary.

• Olde Town Conyers on Ice – The longest-running outdoor ice rink in Georgia with real ice, Olde Town on Ice Conyers provides a terrific option for those on the east side of Metro Atlanta. Enjoy the small-town atmosphere and stay for the concession stand. Private party areas for birthday parties or gatherings are also available. Skate on this open-air, real ice-skating rink from November 17 through February 11. See the website for the schedule. No reservations are required.

• Frosty’s Ice Rink at Lake Lanier – Safe Harbor Development has invested 3.5 million into Margaritaville at Lanier Islands and transformed the summertime destination into a winter wonderland – License to Chill: Snow Island. In addition to ice skating, you can go snow tubing, enjoy carnival rides, make snow angels and taste delicious s’mores and hot chocolate when you visit this seriously amazing destination.