As the frosty days of winter set in, the allure of ice skating adds a unique charm to the season. If you’re in or near Chattanooga, you’re in for a treat. Even though the city itself lacks a permanent ice rink, you’ll find several enticing options within a short drive. Let’s explore some of the best spots for ice skating Chattanooga and its surroundings offer.
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Ice on the Landing
The pride of Chattanooga, Ice on the Landing is the city’s exclusive ice skating rink. The rink, located at the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo, operates during the winter season until January 29th, offering a unique combination of dining, drinks, and sweets at the various restaurants on the Choo Choo property.
Hours of Operation and Services
Ice on the Landing operates most days from November 18th through January 29th, with the schedule varying depending on the day of the week. The ice skating rink offers both food and drinks on-site, with a variety of nearby restaurants to choose from.
Unique Features
The rink also hosts a skillet curling competition, a hybrid of curling and bocce played with cast-iron skillets. It’s a favorite holiday attraction for proposals, first dates, and birthday parties.
Fun Facts
- It takes ice expert Bill Matthews up to four days to prepare the ice rink.
- A 200-ton chiller is used to keep the ice frozen, especially on warm, sunny days.
- The rink sits over 250 tons of gravel.
- The ice rink is only 3 inches deep, contrary to popular belief.
- The best conditions for the outdoor rink are on a cloudy day with temperatures in the 50s.
- Hot water is used to fix cracks in the ice as it freezes quicker.
Cool Sports
Next on the list is Cool Sports in Knoxville. This indoor rink offers not just ice skating chattanooga but also hockey and birthday parties. It’s a couple of hours away from Chattanooga, so you can plan a whole day of exploration in Knoxville.
Centennial Sportsplex
If you’re keen on year-round ice skating, Centennial Sportsplex in Nashville is your destination. It’s a popular spot in the city, offering a plethora of activities for the entire family.
Ford Ice Center
Are you a fan of the Nashville Predators? Then you’ll love the Ford Ice Center. Owned by the professional hockey team, the center welcomes the public throughout the year.
Ice Chalet
Ice Chalet, another popular spot in Knoxville, offers not just ice skating, but also hockey, curling, lessons, and a skating school.
Ober Gatlinburg
At Ober Gatlinburg in Gatlinburg, TN, you can enjoy year-round ice skating. This indoor rink is a favorite among those visiting the beautiful Smoky Mountains.
Wilderness at the Smokies
If you’re vacationing at Wilderness of the Smokies during the holidays, make sure to check out their outdoor skating rink. Open to both guests and the public, it offers a unique ice skating Chattanooga experience.
The Rink at Park Tavern
For those up for a drive to Atlanta, The Rink at Park Tavern is worth a visit. Located in Piedmont Park, it offers cabanas, fire pits, and food for your enjoyment.
The Atlanta Ice House
Another Atlanta gem, The Atlanta Ice House, offers public ice skating at their hockey rink.
Skate the Station
Lastly, there’s Skate the Station, another rink located in Atlanta. You can find it in Atlantic Station, running through January 16th. They also offer on-site dining for your hungry skaters!
A Future Permanent Rink?
While Chattanooga currently lacks a permanent rink, the popularity of Ice on the Landing offers a glimpse into the potential for a permanent installation. Only time will tell if Chattanooga will get its own year-round ice rink. Until then, enjoy the season and make memorable skating experiences at these fantastic locations around Chattanooga.
“People love ice skating and we don’t have [a permanent rink] anymore… once the Choo Choo decorates everything and you get that little bit of chilly weather, it’s the perfect date night.”
— Barry Cole, rink manager
No matter where you choose to skate, you’re sure to create lifelong memories with your family and friends. So put on those skates and glide into the joy of winter!
