Now that the holidays have arrived, there is one activity that’s perfect for the season… ice skating. Hitting the ice is a fun way to add holiday action to any day or evening. Great for kids and adults alike, don thick socks and skates to show your skating prowess. Here are some of the best ice skating rinks in Southern California.
Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square
When it comes to Los Angeles, one of the areas as iconic as the Hollywood sign is the DTLA skyline. Likewise, heading downtown for a day on the ice makes for a perfect holiday activity. Pershing Square’s ice rink offers whimsical fun in the heart of DTLA.
Ice at Santa Monica
Located just blocks from the ocean, Ice in downtown Santa Monica brings a bit of winter to the comfortable coastal city. The 8,000-square-foot outdoor rink runs daily from mid-November to mid-January on the corner of Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue. All-day admission ($20) includes skate rentals.
Xbox Plaza, Los Angeles
The seasonal LA Kings Holiday Ice is a firm favorite with LA locals. Situated in front of the Staples Center, the sizeable ice-skating rink has a towering Christmas tree in the middle and is surrounded by illuminated screens.
Iceoplex, Simi Valley
Open all year round, Iceoplex in Simi Valley has public skating times each day of the week. People of all ages and skating abilities are welcome to glide around the well-groomed ice in the indoor rink. Looking for somewhere to host a special event? Iceoplex can be booked for parties.
Fairplex, Pomona
The Elf on the Shelf event at Pomona’s Fairplex is undoubtedly a massive hit with younger family members. There’s an extra charge for the ice-skating rink, though you can also enjoy the charming Christmas-themed village, complete with shops and eateries, and walk through the Elf on the Shelf display, which features whimsical decorations and plenty of lights.
Iceland Ice Skating Rink, Los Angeles
Located in the Van Nuys neighborhood of Los Angeles, Iceland Ice Skating Rink has public ice-skating sessions all throughout the year. The indoor retro-style rink also offers skating and hockey lessons for people of all abilities, broomball, and private parties. The public skating schedule varies depending on the day of the week.
Huntington Beach Holiday Ice Rink, Huntington Beach
South of LA, Surf City Winter Wonderland at Huntington Beach Pier Plaza combines the thrill of ice skating while admiring ocean vistas. Combine surf, sea, sand, and ice, all with terrific views of the pier. There are different fun events on many days, including ugly sweater days, carols, storytelling, and sports.
SkyPark at Santa’s Village, Skyforest
Sitting alongside the shores of Lake Arrowhead in Skyforest, San Bernadino, SkyPark at Santa’s Village offers a wealth of festive fun. Have a whimsical day out with cookie decorating, photo sessions with Santa, tours of a toy-making factory, delicious seasonal snacks, dazzling lights, live entertainment, weekend stories with Mrs. Claus … and more! The park is open from 10 am until 6 pm, though do check in advance as opening times can vary.