Ice skating in San Diego might sound like a paradox, given the region’s famed sunny weather. However, the city offers numerous ice rinks for a fun-filled day, irrespective of the season. From rinks inside shopping malls to those with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop, ice skating in San Diego is a go-to activity for families, couples, and individuals alike.
This guide will walk you through the best places for ice skating San Diego, providing insights into the unique offerings of each rink. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a newbie, these rinks provide excellent amenities to suit your skating needs.
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Ice Skating Throughout the Year
Primarily, the ice skating rink facilities in San Diego can be classified into two categories: year-round and seasonal rinks. Let’s start with the year-round rinks that allow you to enjoy ice skating in any season.
UTC Ice Sports Center: Skating amidst Shopping
Located inside the Westfield UTC Shopping Centre in La Jolla, the UTC Ice Sports Center offers a unique experience. Aside from the traditional ice skating, you can enjoy a movie or dine at one of the many eateries in the mall. They offer free introductory figure skating and ice hockey classes for beginners. And the best part? Customers get up to 4 hours of free parking.
San Diego Ice Arena: A Community on Ice
Owned by the Linssen family and serving the community since 1978, the San Diego Ice Arena in Mira Mesa offers more than just a skating experience. The arena has been transformed into a vibrant community hub, with a variety of programs that cater to different age groups and skill levels. They also have a well-stocked pro shop for all your skating needs.
Salvation Army Kroc Center: A Socially Responsible Rink
The Salvation Army’s Kroc Center Ice Arena, located in the heart of San Diego, is more than just an ice skating rink. As the only ice arena centrally located in the city, it offers a year-round, NHL regulation-sized ice surface. It features public ice skating sessions, learn-to-skate classes, hockey classes, and a range of hockey leagues.
The Rinks Poway ICE: Public Skating and More
Offering a full range of figure skating fun, The Rinks Poway ICE is open year-round. Whether you want to experience public sessions, skating lessons, or ice hockey programs, this ice rink has it all.
Seasonally Themed Rinks
Seasonal ice rinks in San Diego typically operate from November through January. They offer a unique opportunity to experience ice skating under the open sky, with a festive ambiance that adds to the joy of the holiday season. So, search for the best outdoor ice rink, and enjoy some fun even on Christmas Eve.
Skating by the Sea: An Oceanfront Delight
Offered each winter since 2005, Skating by the Sea at the Hotel del Coronado transforms the oceanfront Windsor Lawn into a spectacular ice rink. What’s more, you can contribute to a good cause as a portion of the skating proceeds benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of San Diego.
Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station: Skating for a Cause
At the Rady Children’s Ice Rink in Liberty Station, you can enjoy ice skating while also contributing to a noble cause. The proceeds from this rink go towards the Thriving After Cancer program at the Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego.
Viejas Outlets: The Largest Outdoor Skating Rink
From early November to early January, the Viejas Outlets hosts Southern California’s largest outdoor skating rink. The sprawling outlet center and adjacent casino make for an unforgettable holiday experience.
A Few Tips for Ice Skaters
If you’re new to ice skating, remember to wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement. Don’t forget to bring warm socks and gloves, as it can get quite chilly on the ice. For beginners, trying out a free introductory class at one of the ice rinks can be a great start. Lastly, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience, because that’s what ice skating in San Diego is all about!
Ice skating San Diego offers an exciting experience for both locals and tourists, with a wide variety of rinks catering to different preferences. So, whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, a romantic date idea, or a unique way to stay active, indoor and outdoor ice skating in San Diego has something to offer everyone. Grab your skates and head to one of these rinks to glide, twirl, and pirouette your way into a world of frosty fun!
