Ice Skating for the first time is kind of scary! Especially when there’s little to no help on the ice… This list includes tips for skating and where around the DMV to find aids that’ll help those first time skaters. We’re experts by no means but we’ve visited a couple in the area and will update this list as we visit more!
Notes: Follow the links to explore more information about ice skating rinks in the DMV area. No affiliate links are included in this blog.
Check back for updates! As previously stated, the more rinks we visit; the more tips we’ll be able to share. Happy skating!
While visiting Wheaton Ice Arena, we chatted with one of the instructors who happened to be enjoying open skate. She mentioned a couple of tips when learning how to skate:
As we skate more and pick up tips, I’ll add them here!
One of our favorite outdoor ice skating rinks! Conveniently located next to an eatery with pizza and gelato, this space is perfect for parties and get togethers. It’s very beginner friendly and also offers lessons and other amenities.
Here are the general details for Canal Park Ice Rink:
Read more about Canal Park Ice Rink through their website.
Check out Free Skate Fridays for all DC students at Canal Park Ice Rink. Pre-register online for free admission and skate rentals between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm on Fridays through March. Adults accompanying children are required to stay in the rink area and are also welcome (but not required) to skate. Tap the image above to register your child!
Another outdoor gem but this one is more for the intermediate skaters, in my opinion! No skate helpers at this rink located across the street from the West Building of the National Gallery of Art. This rink is open through March 2, 2025.
Here are the general details for the Sculpture Garden Ice Rink:
Note that fees cover two back-to-back skating sessions. Sessions begin on the hour and last 45 minutes, leaving a 15 minute break for ice maintenance.
Read more about the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden Ice Rink through their website.
Outdoor Ice Rinks:
This indoor ice skating rink is one of two year-round skating rinks in Montgomery County, MD. Here are the general details for this ice rink:
This rink is for more intermediate skaters in my opinion. There are only 5 skate helpers allowed on the ice at a time and it’s first come, first served! The ledge going around the rink is really small so it’s kind of difficult to hold on.
Read more about Wheaton Ice Arena through the Montgomery Parks’ website.
Outdoor Ice Rinks:
Indoor Ice Rinks:
Outdoor Ice Rinks:
Indoor Ice Rinks:
Thank you for checking out this listing of Ice Skating rinks in DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia. As we visit more rinks, I’ll update this blog with tips for visiting & other need-to-know info!