As the holiday season approaches, the city of Tampa transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a myriad of festive activities. One such activity that stands out is ice skating. Whether you’re an expert gliding effortlessly on the ice or a beginner learning to balance, ice skating Tampa provides an exhilarating experience for all.
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Embrace the Holiday Spirit at Curtis Hixon Winter Village
Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Winter Village is a must-visit destination during the holiday season. With a stunning view of the Tampa Riverwalk and Hillsborough River, the village houses an ice-skating rink, making it an ideal spot for a delightful ice skating experience.
Skate and Explore
The ice-skating rink at Curtis Hixon Winter Village gives you the opportunity to skate amidst picturesque surroundings. If you don’t own a pair of skates, the village has got you covered with skate rentals included in your ticket purchase. An exciting 90 minutes ice skating session costs $17, including the skate rental.
Holiday Market and Festive Cocktails
Once you have enjoyed your time on the ice, you can explore the holiday market that offers a unique collection of holiday gifts. New this year, you can engage in a fun game of curling or unwind with a festive cocktail like the Campfire Old Fashioned.
Experience the Largest Ice Facility in the Southeast
An ice skating adventure in Tampa would be incomplete without visiting the largest ice facility in the Southeast. Located in Wesley Chapel, this 150,000 square foot rink includes 5 rinks, making it an ideal location for ice hockey, figure skating, and curling. Moreover, the facility also offers open times for public skate.
Themed Skating Days and Friday Night Fun
During the holiday season, the facility offers themed skating days such as Ugly Christmas Sweater, Snowman, Holiday Pajama, and Santa Costume. Every Friday night, you can enjoy a 2-hour public skate session with a DJ and colorful lights. Public skating is priced at $10 per session, while skate rental is available for $7. Friday night sessions come with a price tag of $25 plus skate rental.
The Former Brandon Ice Sports Forum
This ice-skating venue, formerly known as the Brandon Ice Sports Forum, offers an array of public skating sessions for a cool date night. On select nights, you can skate to the tunes of a live DJ. After skating, you can indulge in some laser tag, grab a bite at the cafe or grill and sports bar, or enjoy some games at the arcade. Admission for ice skating is $8-10 and $5 for skate rental.
Unleash the Skater in You at Tampa Bay Skating Academy
With three locations across Oldsmar, Clearwater, and Countryside, the Tampa Bay Skating Academy offers memorable ice skating experiences. You and your partner can enjoy a 90-minute skating session and spend the rest of the day dining at the Bar and Grill or shopping at the Countryside Mall. Prices vary per location.
Practical Information
Parking and Transportation
Parking is available at multiple locations adjacent to Winter Village for a nominal fee. Visitors are encouraged to park once and enjoy the Winter Village by walking the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk. Other transportation options include the Pirate Water Taxi, Coast Bike Share, and more.
Dogs and Admission Fee
Leashed dogs are welcome at the Tampa Riverwalk, downtown parks, the dog park adjacent to Winter Village, and Winter Village event areas. However, dogs are not allowed on the ice rink. While the Winter Village is free to attend, the ice rink requires paid admission for skating and skate rentals.
Ticket Purchase
All visits to the ice rink must be reserved in advance by purchasing a timed ticket online. Walk-up purchases will be directed to a QR-code to purchase tickets on their smartphones.
Ice Skating in Tampa Bay – A Review
Tampa’s ice skating scene has received rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. From public ice skating sessions to private lessons, the city’s facilities cater to everyone’s needs. The exhilarating experience of skating, coupled with the vibrant atmosphere and popular music, leaves skaters yearning for more. However, some visitors feel that the session times could be longer and suggest offering annual tickets for regular skaters.
Ice Skating in Tampa Bay – A Year-Round Experience
While the holiday season brings a festive charm to ice skating in Tampa, the city’s rinks offer the activity all year round. So, whether you own a pair of skates or need to rent one, you can experience the joy of ice skating in Tampa anytime you want.
In Conclusion
Ice skating Tampa is more than just a sport or a hobby; it’s an experience that brings joy, excitement, and a sense of achievement. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to add ice skating to your Tampa itinerary, and immerse yourself in this mesmerizing experience.
