Okay, I admit it: The Explorers and I have yet to go ice skating – indoors or out. (The Big Explorer has a curious fear of falling and I’m not too sure-footed myself.)
But after checking out all the options available right here in Los Angeles, I’m thinking this is the year we finally give it a try.
If you’re wondering where you can glide on ice outdoors this holiday season, look no further! These 5 spots are sure to provide plenty of festive outdoor fun for the entire family.
CHILL at the W Los Angeles-Westwood
From the sounds of it, this 1,600-square-foot creation is all about the glitz and glam of Hollywood – which certainly isn’t my thing. But there’s also an hourly “snowfall,” which can seriously dazzle snow-deprived little ones. On weekends, kids can also decorate gingerbread cookies.
Dates: November 18, 2011 – January 1, 2012
Cost: Admission & skate rental $10/hour (ages 5 and up)
Location: 930 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles 90024
Details: CHILL Ice Rink at W Los Angeles-Westwood
ICE at Santa Monica
Outdoor ice skating with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop? What more do you need? This Santa Monica-area site transforms the corner of 5th and Arizona into a winter oasis in the city. The 8,000-square-foot rink even features a Tot Spot for kids 6 and under.
Dates: November 11, 2011 – January 16, 2012
Cost: Admission & skate rental $12, locker rental $10 (with a $5 refund with key return)
Location: 1324 5th St., Santa Monica 90401
Details: ICE at Santa Monica
LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. Live
Up to 200 skaters can share the ice at once on the 5,600-square-foot rink at Nokia Plaza. The holiday season kicks off with the official tree lighting ceremony on Friday, December 2 at 7 p.m.
Dates: November 26, 2011 – January 5, 2012
Cost: Admission & skate rental $12
Location: Nokia Plaza, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles 90015
Details: LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. Live
Pershing Square
Now in its 14th season, ice skating at Pershing Square in the heart of downtown L.A. has become a holiday tradition for many. This is the largest outdoor rink in the city and also hosts a series of free events, including the “12 Nights of Christmas Music Series” and the Winter Holiday Festival – which features Santa, his reindeer and tons of snow.
Dates: November 17, 2011 – January 16, 2012
Cost: Skating session $6, skate rental $2
Location: 532 S. Olive St., Los Angeles 90013
Details: Pershing Square Downtown on Ice
Woodland Hills Ice
The 7,000-square-foot Woodland Hills Ice is the only outdoor, open-air rink in the San Fernando Valley. Here you’ll find everything from skating classes and lessons to recreational skating, special events and more.
Dates: October 21, 2011 – February 5, 2012
Cost: Admission & skate rental $12 for kids 12 & under, adults $15
Location: Westfield Promenade in Woodland Hills, 6100 Topanga Canyon Blvd. at Erwin St.
Details: Woodland Hills Ice
