Looking for a fun winter activity near the University of Pennsylvania? Ice skating is a quintessential winter pastime that offers both exercise and entertainment. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a beginner, several ice skating rinks in and around Philadelphia provide the perfect opportunity to glide across the ice. Here's a guide to some of the best places to go ice skating, including details on hours, admission fees, and special features.
Local Ice Skating Rinks
Class of 1923 Ice Rink (University of Pennsylvania)
Enjoy 16,330 square feet of ice skating as you glide (or fall) on the ice of the University of Pennsylvania’s Class of 1923 Ice Rink.
Accessibility: The Penn Ice Rink is easily accessible by car, foot, and public transportation.
- By Foot: The main entrance is located at ground level on the east side of the rink (facing Center City).
- Public Transportation: The rink is served by SEPTA bus routes 21 and 42 which stop at Walnut Street. The closest Trolley, Subway, and Regional Rail stops are 30th street station.
- By Car: You will enter the rink off 31st Street which is accessible off Chestnut Street. There are three Penn Parking Lots available near the lot: Penn Park Lot, Lower Walnut Lot, and Penn Children’s Center lot.
Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink at Dilworth Park
Want to skate with City Hall as your backdrop? Look no further than the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink at Dilworth Park, which typically operates through late February. This rink also offers late-night skate hours, making it perfect for date night. If it gets too cold under the city lights, head into the Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin for a seasonal beverage and some snacks by fire pits.
Admission: $8 for adults and $5 for children 10 and under, plus $10 for a skate rental. Bonus: Show your SEPTA Pass or Key for $1 off skating admission.
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Winterfest at the Blue Cross RiverRink
Winterfest at the Blue Cross RiverRink provides the perfect landscape for skating as it overlooks the Delaware River and is one of Philly’s premier skating destinations. The rink is open seven days a week (including all holidays) until March 5th. Your experience comes with warming cabins, physically-distanced fire pit stations, and a Ferris wheel ride, for an additional $5.
Admission: $5 for skating and $12 for skate rental.
Wissahickon Skating Club
Since 1956, the Wissahickon Skating Club has been one of eight skating clubs in the United States to own their own skating rink. In 1998, this club hosted the US National Figure Skating Championship, making it a marquee destination for Philly skating.
Admission: $7-$9, plus $3 for skate rentals.
Other Rinks to Consider
- Ice Line (West Chester): Primarily serves as a rink for hockey clinics and ice skating lessons. General public skate admission is $10 with an additional $3 for skates.
- Flight on Ice: Multiple locations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. All the outdoor rinks are like winter wonderlands - with skating, heated tents for light bites and drinks, and festive pop-ups.
- Philadelphia Skating Club and Humane Society: Claims to be America’s first skating club. Check for their public skate hours.
Free and Low-Cost Options
For those looking for more budget-friendly options, several rinks offer free admission or low skate rental fees:
Read also: Ice Skating in Great Neck
- Laura Sims Skate House: Free admission for skating, with a $3 skate rental fee.
- Scanlon Ice Rink: Free to skate with a $5 skate rental fee.
- Tarken Ice Rink: Admission is free and there’s a $3 skate rental fee.
Additional Options
Here are a few more ice skating rinks in the Philadelphia area:
- IceWorks Skating Complex (Aston): Entry for adults is $12-$15, while children four and under can skate for free. Skate rentals are $3.
- Northeast Skate Zone: Offers lessons, open skate times, and clinics. Check the weekly schedule before heading over.
- WinterFest Ice Skating at Cooper River: Open Thursday through Sunday until February 26th. Rink admission costs $7.50, with discounts for children, seniors, and vets.
- Neshaminy Creek in Tyler State Park: When the weather is cold enough, ice skating is permitted on the creek near the boathouse warming area. Use caution, as ice thickness is not monitored.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, a fun family outing, or just a way to stay active during the winter months, Philadelphia and its surrounding areas offer a variety of ice skating options to suit every taste and budget. So grab your skates and enjoy the ice!
Ice rinks opening in Philadelphia, Camden
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