It’s time to trade your roller skates for ice skates. With the holiday break providing some extra downtime, now’s the perfect opportunity to pick up a new winter hobby. If you’ve never skated before or if you’re looking to brush up on your skills, there are several rinks around the city (and some of them are free!).
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink
Summerfest may be over, but starting Nov. 28 the Delaware River Waterfront will be transformed into a frosty wonderland for Winterfest. Guests can enjoy cozy cabins, firepits, and boardwalk rides, but the main draw is the ice rink. The rink is open seven days a week, and reservations are recommended. Admission is $5 while skate rental is $12.
If you’re an IBX cardholder or employee, bring your card with you for up to four skating admission tickets redeemable on-site. You’ll just have to pay for skate rental. The skate season lasts until March 1.
Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink
Another seasonal skating pop-up is one of several attractions at Dilworth Park over the winter season. Visitors can come any day of the week for a 90-minute skate session. Admission is $7 for children 10 and under, and $10 for everyone else.
If you’re a Temple University student or employee, present your TU ID for $1 off. If you’re a college student elsewhere, get $3 off on Thursday nights.
While waiting for your turn — or once you’ve wrapped up skating — be sure to visit the Rothman Cabin, Wintergarden, or Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market next to City Hall.
Penn Ice Rink
Did you know that the University of Pennsylvania’s ice rink is open to the public? The university offers individual and group skating for all skill levels every day except Tuesdays and Thursdays through May 10. All Penn cardholders may enter for $8, any college student for $10, and the rest of the public for $12. Skate rental is $5.
If you’re looking for something more advanced, the rink also offers lessons in figure skating and hockey.
Wissahickon Skating Club
The club has public skating sessions on Friday evenings from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. for $10, Saturday afternoons from 12:45 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. for $8, and holidays from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. for $8. Skate rental is $4.
If you’re serious about diving into the world of competitive sports, the club has membership options for those interested in figure skating, synchronized skating, or hockey.
Parks & Recreation Ice Rinks
You can skate for free at these city rinks with dedicated hours for public skating:
Admission ranges from $3 to $5 depending on the rink. Keep an eye on the city’s official page or the rink’s individual websites for updated schedules.
