Charlotte, North Carolina, offers several ice skating rinks during the winter season, providing residents and visitors with a delightful winter activity. From the plenty of ice skating options in Charlotte, we take a look at some of the best, including their unique features, special events. We will also talk about the overall ice skating experience in this vibrant and charming city.
Despite the temperate climate, Charlotte, North Carolina, embraces the winter season with fervor, offering numerous outdoor ice-skating venues. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned skater, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore the top ice-skating destinations in Charlotte and the surrounding region.
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Embrace the Chill at U.S. National Whitewater Center
One of the prominent destinations for ice skating Charlotte is the U.S. National Whitewater Center. It boasts a massive outdoor skating rink and is known for its ice trails and free skate zones.
Location and Timings
Located at 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte, the skating rink opens its doors in mid-November and remains operational until mid-February. You can enjoy skating from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends, while on weekdays, the rink is open from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Pricing Details
The entry requires the purchase of a Single Activity Pass ($25) or an All Access Pass. Additionally, parking will cost you $6. With the pass, you can enjoy a full day of skating. If you already have an annual pass, you’re good to go!
Additional Activities
Apart from ice skating, the Center hosts numerous other activities. Check out the Lights installation, suspension bridges, and an on-ice Airstream serving hot and cold beverages.
Immerse in the Festive Spirit at Light the Knights Festival
Light the Knights Festival is another must-visit destination for ice skating Charlotte. It’s located at Truist Field, 324 S Mint Street, Charlotte, NC.
Dates and Entry Fee
The festival runs from November 23rd, 2022, to January 8th, 2023. The cost of festival admission and skating is $25.
Attractions
The festival features a full-size skating rink and a 6-lane snow tubing slope. You can also explore the Charlotte Christmas Village featuring festive shopping and food and drink. Santa might be around for a photo, and you can enjoy the light display against the city skyline.
Birkdale on Ice: A New Entrant
Birkdale on Ice is a recent addition to Charlotte’s ice-skating scene. It’s located at The Plaza at Birkdale Village, Birkdale Commons Parkway and Sam Furr Road, Huntersville, NC.
Timings and Entry Fee
The rink is open from November 19th, 2022, to January 16th, 2023. The entry fee is $18 for adults and $14 for kids 12 and under, which includes skate rental.
Founders Holiday Ice Rink in Rock Hill
If you’re willing to travel a bit, the Founders Holiday Ice Rink in Rock Hill, South Carolina, is worth a visit. The rink is covered by a large tent, ensuring it remains open regardless of the weather.
Location and Timings
The rink is located across from Fountain Park at 300 E Main Street, Rock Hill, SC. It’s open from Thursday, November 17th, 2022, to Monday, January 16th, 2023.
Pricing Details
The entry fee is $15, which includes skate rental and 90 minutes on the ice.
Other Noteworthy Outdoor Ice Rinks
In the past, the Charlotte region has hosted several other ice rinks. If any of them reopen in 2022, this list will be updated. Some of them include:
- Holidays on Ice, at NASCAR Hall of Fame
- Winter Wonderland, at SouthPark
- The Ice at Sun Valley Commons (Indian Trail)
- Ice Rink at Charlotte Motor Speedway
Note: Always verify the details and schedules with the venue or organizer before you plan your visit.
More Holiday Events
Apart from ice skating, Charlotte hosts a plethora of holiday events. From festive markets to music concerts, there’s something for everyone.
Indoor Ice Skating Options in Charlotte
If you’re not a fan of outdoor ice skating or if the weather isn’t cooperating, you can still enjoy ice skating Charlotte at the city’s indoor rinks.
Extreme Ice Center
Extreme Ice Center is a premier ice-skating facility in the Carolinas. It’s open year-round and offers a range of programs, from Learn to Skate to Adult Skating Lessons. It also houses Redmond’s Corner, a store for ice hockey and figure skating gear, and Core Studio Pilates.
Pineville Ice House
Pineville Ice House offers daily public skating sessions. It also provides youth and adult hockey programs, figure skating instruction, a skating school, and camps and clinics. After a skating session, you can unwind at the enclosed, heated bar serving hot food, appetizers, beer, and wine.
Concluding Thoughts
Ice skating is a fantastic way to embrace the winter season. Whether you’re in Charlotte or the surrounding region, you’ll find numerous venues to enjoy this exciting activity. So, lace up your skates and glide into a winter wonderland!
