LACE UP YOUR SKATES AND PUT THESE D.C. ICE RINKS ON YOUR HOLIDAY TO-DO LIST
It’s the time of year for holiday guests, family get-togethers, and of course, ice skating. Here are just a few of the D.C. ice rinks that are havens for holiday cheer.
THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART ICE RINK
The Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Art is a beautiful year-round attraction, but it’s even more stunning in the winter months when the center fountain pool turns into an ice rink. Especially stunning after sunset when the strings of lights are lit and twinkling, this ice rink is a great place for a romantic evening. You can even stop for a warm drink or glass of wine at the Pavillion Cafe. The rink is open from mid-November to March.
WASHINGTON HARBOUR ICE RINK
Perhaps the most iconic of all the District’s ice rinks, Washington Harbour’s ice rink is located on the waterfront in the historic Georgetown neighborhood. Here you can take in the sights of the Potomac River and the Kennedy Center as you skate. Not the best skater? The rink also offers lessons for both children and adults and is open from mid-November to March.
THE WHARF ICE RINK
The revitalization of D.C.’s historic Southwest Waterfront community has made The Warf one of the hottest destinations in the District. Home to four different piers, each with their own entertainment, dining, and retail, there’s so much to see and do in this vibrant area. The Wharf ice rink is located on the Transit Pier outside of The Anthem with stunning views of the water. Open from December 2nd through late February, be sure to bring your credit card —the rink is a cash-free business.
THE WATERGATE HOTEL’S TOP OF THE SKATE
For something truly unique, head over to The Watergate Hotel where one of the District’s hottest rooftop bars, Top of the Gate, turns into an ice rink complete with 360-degree views of the city skyline including the Kennedy Center, the Potomac River, the Key and Arlington bridges, the Washington Monument and more. The rink opens mid-November.
PENTAGON ROW ICE RINK
The second-largest outdoor ice rink in Virginia, Pentagon Row offers more than 6,800 square feet of ice. Your holiday guests can skate beneath shops, restaurants, and the center’s notable clock tower, and can enjoy the lighted Christmas tree and dual-sided fireplace. Skating school is also available for both children and adults, and you can even host birthday parties at the rink. The rink opens in late October and runs through mid-March.
CANAL PARK ICE RINK
Canal Park is located just south of the U.S. Capitol and is a vibrant neighborhood on the Anacostia River. It’s home to Major League Baseball’s Washington Nationals and, during the winter months, is home to the Canal Park ice rink. This rink is unique because it’s on a figure eight track, which is similar to skating on a frozen canal. Lesser known among tourists, if you’re looking for a quiet place to skate, Canal Park is the place. The rink opens mid-November and runs through the end of February.
