You don’t have to head for the mountains to partake in winter sports—at least not this one. A number of rinks may be closed this year, but there are still plenty of places to skate a figure-eight this January. Whether you need a penguin to lean on, a refresher course or a place to practice your triple lutz, there’s a rink for that near Washington, DC. Here are 7 ice skating rinks to take a spin on —don’t forget to reserve your spot online!
photo: Village of Rosemont
Color Burst Ice Rink
The new Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District makes a great family-friendly outing. Admission is limited to encourage physical distancing so be sure to buy your tickets in advance. And don't forget your masks, they are required while skating.
You can enjoy public sessions and lessons at this rink; pre-registration is required. Each session is limited to 10 skaters to help guests maintain a healthy distance from other skaters. Note: masks must be worn on and off the ice.
This shopping and dining area turns its open-air pavilion into an ice rink every winter. The skate shop has more than 500 pairs of skates in figure skating and hockey styles, plus double-bladed, flat-edge skates for beginners.
Enjoy some loops around a rink that sits in the middle of a shopping and dining center. You must purchase your ticket before your arrival; reservations can be made two weeks in advance. Guests are asked to wear masks both on and off the ice.
At 7,200 square feet, this outdoor rink is said to be the biggest between Baltimore and Washington. Rockville Town Square has shops, restaurants and even a spa (just saying) to peruse after you hang up your blades.
Music sets the tone for skaters making loops around the rink situated in the Glen Burnie Town Center. This rink, like the others, offers skating lessons.
Cost: $8/adult ages 12 and up, $7/child under 12 and senior 55 and up, $3/skate rental Where: 103 Crain Hwy., Glen Burnie, MD Online: glenburnieiceskating.com
This ice rink is a whopping 6,840 square feet – the largest outdoor rink in Northern Virginia and the second largest in the state. Little ones can grab a penguin aide, and youth skating and hockey lessons are available.
Cost: $10/adult, $9/seniors and kids 12 & under, $5 skate rental Where: 1201 S Joyce St., Arlington, VA Online: pentagonrowskating.com
— Meghan Yudes Meyers, Ayren Jackson-Cannady and Stephanie Kanowitz