It’s never too cold to go ice skating, so lace up your skates and glide through the winter wonderland at these Wisconsin ice skating rinks.
[Originally posted November 2022.]
Lake Ridge Bank River Rink
Monona
‘Tis the season to go ice skating. So if the rink is calling your name, be sure to make a trip to the most festive one of them all. During the snowy season, the Lake Ridge Bank River Rink is known for putting on a spectacular show (it is open through March 4). This Wisconsin ice skating rink is Dane County’s newest attraction for leisurely skating every day, including holidays. And be sure to mark your calendars for a few special dates. First, to honor the holidays, starting on Saturday, Nov. 25, the rink will be decked out in 10,000 lights on a 20-ft.-tall, Wisconsin-grown spruce tree and large light displays, perfect for photo opportunities. Speaking of the holidays, you may also want to return to the rink on Saturday, Dec. 16, when Santa Claus will be on the ice, and the atmosphere will be amplified with Christmas music and festive holiday décor. Skate rentals are available for $6 for adults; $4 for guests ages 2 to 17 and seniors; and free for guests less than a year old. For more information, visit mymonona.com.
Hy-Vee Plaza at Titletown
Green Bay
If you’re a cheesehead, it’s definitely not going to be your first visit to Titletown. But for those who haven’t experienced all of the green-and-gold glory, be sure to make your first trip a memorable one by hitting the rink at the Hy-Vee Plaza. Now open for the season, this Wisconsin ice skating rink is known for its golden, gleaming trees and, of course, its Lambeau surroundings. And since Titletown is famous for its celebratory atmosphere, there will obviously be a winter jubilee to help break in the ice rink. Mark your calendar for Friday and Saturday, Nov. 24 and Nov. 25, to visit the Hy-Vee Plaza for more than just ice skating. Guests can look forward to live music, fireside drinks at the Terrapin Beer Garden and even holiday photo opportunities with real reindeer. General admission for skating starts at $8, and skate rentals are $5. For more information, visit titletown.com.
Slice of Ice in Red Arrow Park
Milwaukee
There’s something magical about spinning on skates through the falling winter snow. This dreamy experience can be made even more enchanting at the beloved Slice of Ice in Red Arrow Park. Opening soon for the new season, this Wisconsin ice skating rink will deck the halls with plenty of colorful Christmas lights to make you feel like you’re at the North Pole. There will even be penguin-themed skater-aid rentals available for those who are new to the ice and looking to get the hang of things in a fun way. In addition, ice sleds are also offered for free to skaters with mobility impairments. Aside from the ice, guests can take a break inside to cozy up by the fireplace and sip on a hot beverage from the on-site Starbucks. Skate rentals will be available for $10 for adults and $8 for guests who are 17 and younger. For more information, visit milwaukee.gov.
The Plaza
Neenah
Prepare to fall in love with the iridescent ice this winter at The Plaza, a hotspot for socializing and skating. This Wisconsin ice skating rink is open for the season and is sure to entice guests with its shimmering string lights and glowing ambience. Beyond the rink, there are also plenty of flickering fireplaces and seating options to watch all of the skating action. Guests can also visit The Plaza’s Globe Coffee for warm coffee and hot chocolate, along with light fare like bagels and paninis. And just in time for ice skating season, Globe will also be offering make-your-own cheese fondue and s’mores, which can be melted over the outdoor firepits. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for kids, under the age of 18, and $5 for skate rentals. For more information, visit theplazaneenah.com.
Edgewater Ice Rink
Madison
It’s officially time to hit the rink. Most Wisconsinites have experienced ice skating, but it’s even more enchanting at the Edgewater Ice Rink. This ravishing rink overlooks Lake Mendota and shines equally as brightly as the twinkling snowflakes falling through the crisp, winter air. Whether you’re a skating pro or a beginner, skate rentals will be available for a low price and are sure to get you into the spirit of the sport. Or, if you’re simply looking to soak up the snowy atmosphere, be sure to look into the Edgewater’s fireplace rentals for a more casual experience. Guests can cozy up by the fire and even order snacks, sweet treats and pizza by the slice from The Slice House. Once open for the season on Dec. 1 (Wednesdays through Sundays), general admission will cost $7 for guests over the age of 13, and $4 for guests 12 and under. Skate rentals will also be available for $3. For more information, visit icehousemadison.com.
If you’re looking to recreate that magical winter vibe in your own place or venue, getting a synthetic ice rink is a fantastic option. It lets you enjoy ice skating all year round without worrying about the weather or having to go anywhere. So go ahead and embrace the freedom to glide and twirl on the ice whenever and wherever you feel like it.
—Kenzie Barrena and Lauren Wright