After an unseasonably warm fall in Colorado, the cold weather is ushering in a plethora of wintertime activities for you to enjoy including one of the most quintessential holiday favorites — ice skating. Whether you’re a natural ice skater who glides and flits across the ice or someone who is hanging on to the railing with every small, slippery step, it’s finally time to lace up and hit the ice here in Colorado. We’ve rounded up the top five best locations for outdoor ice skating that features everything from frozen-over lakes with Christmas tree centerpieces to ice rinks nestled in heart of Denver with plenty of food and shopping options for you to choose from.
Note: Downtown Denver and Louisville are open on Christmas Day.
Downtown Denver Ice Rink at Skyline Park
Photo by © Glenn Ross | www.glennrossphoto.com
When: November 2 – February 3, Monday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Friday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Skyline Park, 1611 Arapahoe St, Denver
Cost: Entry is free. Skate rentals are $6 for kids 12 & under and $8 for adults
The Lowdown: Once Colorado’s warm weather finally disappears for the season, Skyline Park’s beer garden goes into hibernation and the area transforms into the Downtown Denver Rink. Back for its ninth year in a row, this ice rink is located right in the heart of Denver and gives you the perfect opportunity to hit the ice after you’ve finished all your holiday shopping. Don’t forget to stop by for the live bands and DJ’s every Friday night, and check their website for special events such as snowga (snow yoga) and Broomball games.
Evergreen Lake
Skating Evergreen Lake via Facebook
When: Tentative opening date is TBD. Always check the ice report on Evergreen recreation’s website before going.
Where: Evergreen Lake, 29612 Upper Bear Creek Rd, Evergreen
Cost: Including your skate rental, $6 for children (18 and under) and $7 for adults.
The Lowdown: Did you know that Evergreen Lake is home to the world’s largest Zamboni-groomed outdoor ice skating rink? Surrounded by stunning scenery and more than 8.5 acres of skating area, Evergreen Lake is one of the best places for new and experienced skaters alike. The lake also offers plenty of activities such as private skate parties, skating lessons and pond hockey. Check out our full article to find out more about what this Colorado gem has to offer.
Keystone Lake
Photo courtesy of Keystone Resort’s website
When: November 30 through late March to early April, 7 days a week (weather permitting) 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Go here for details
Where: Lakeside Village, 0172 Decatur Rd, Keystone
Cost: Including your skate rental, $10 for children (18 and under), and $15 for adults.
The Lowdown: Keystone Lake is home to one of the most beautiful outdoor rinks in the entire state, and is surrounded by a handful of local businesses and restaurants for you dip inside when you get too cold. Glide and twirl to the music that plays on the lake, and don’t forget to stop for the perfect selfie with the Christmas tree that is located in the center of the five-acre lake.
The Rink at Belmar
Photo courtesy of The Rink at Belmar Google Photos page.
When: November 15 – January 17. Sunday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., Friday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: The Belmar, 439 S Teller St, Lakewood
Cost: $5 admission if you bring your own skates. $7.50 for children (12 and under), and $9.50 for adults.
The Lowdown: Back for its 14th year in a row, The Rink at Belmar offers 7,000 square feet for you to glide and slide around on. It also has plenty of holiday fun lined up this winter including an ugly sweater party and synchronized skating performances scheduled throughout the season. Whether it’s a date night or some good wholesome family fun, the Belmar offers plenty of food and shopping options for you once you’ve skated to your heart’s desire.
WinterSkate in Louisville
Photo courtesy of Louisville Downtown Business Associate’s Facebook page.
When: November 19 – February 28., Monday – Wednesday, 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., Thursday, 2 p.m. – 10 p.m., Friday, 12 p.m. – 10 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Go here for more details
Where: Steinbaugh Pavilion, 824 Front Street in Historic Downtown Louisville.
Cost: Including your skate rental, $8 for children (12 and under) and $10 for adults.
The Lowdown: If you’re looking for an old-fashioned ice skating experience, look no further than WinterSkate in Louisville’s Historic Downtown. This quaint 6,500-feet ice rink features free horse-drawn carriage rides and traditional holiday music through the entire holiday season. If you get too cold while skating you can always warm up with a drink from the concessions stands while you hang out in the free warming hut.