Even though we don’t have frozen lakes in Atlanta, there are plenty of options for ice skating if you want to get outside for some holiday fun. Atlanta is well known for its roller skate culture (as made famous in the 2006 movie “ATL”), but we also have our share of ice skaters due to the city attracting residents from all over the United States. The city was also home in the past to two professional ice hockey teams – the Atlanta Thrashers from 1997-2011 and the Atlanta Flame from 1972-1980. Now ice skaters have a short time to enjoy their pastime at several seasonal venues across the city, and there are a few indoor rinks open year-round as well.
With many people wanting to avoid indoor recreation during the ongoing pandemic, ice skating is a great option for an outdoors winter activity. For about another month, you can enjoy several unique skate experiences in great locations throughout Atlanta. Here are some options for some of the best ice skating in Atlanta this year.
Skate the Sky at The Roof on Ponce City Market
With excellent skyline views of the city, this venue includes admission and reentry to The Roof at Ponce City Market, skate rentals and 50 minutes of skating, and unlimited games and rides at Skyline Park. On Fridays and Saturdays after 5 p.m., The Roof is 21 and up only, and a DJ will be there spinning tracks for a fun adults-only experience. Reservations should be made in advance since there are limited numbers of people allowed on the rink for a safe time for all.
Available now through Jan. 10
The Rink at Park Tavern
The Rink at Park Tavern, featuring the venue’s classic unobstructed views of Piedmont Park and the Midtown skyline. With a heated tent, state-of-the-art sound system and park-side dining, this is a great choice for social skaters. There are also opportunities for skate lessons for both parents and children as well as general classes.
From now until Feb. 15
Skate the Station at Atlantic Station
For the largest seasonal outdoor rink in the metro area, look no further than Atlantic Station. Tickets must be purchased in advance to adhere to current safety protocols with limited skaters on the ice at a time. Skate blocks are 75 minutes each, and this rink is open on all of the winter holidays.
From now until Jan. 18
Ice Skating at Stone Mountain Mall
At this indoor rink you can do your holiday shopping then head over for ice skating, hot chocolate, gumbo, a TV raffle and more with FREE admission and masks required.
From now until Jan. 13
License to Chill Snow Island at Margaritaville
Lake Lanier’s Margaritaville Resort is hosting the seasonal License to Chill Snow Island with snow tubing, amusement rides and ice skating. There are also S’mores and hot cocoa as well as Santa’s Workshop to visit. Additionally, you can walk through the Lakeside Lights Spectacular for a high quality holiday lights experience while you’re there.
From now until Feb. 21
Avalon On Ice
This outdoor rink is Rockefeller Center-inspired and filled with holiday cheer. Spots are limited, so advance reservations are required, as are face coverings for all guests to maintain safety due to the ongoing pandemic.
From now until Jan. 18
The Ice Rink at Sugar Hill
This rink is outdoors under a tent near the Sugar Hill City Hall. Skaters of all levels are welcome and the rink offers both public and private skating. Be sure to check their schedule before you go as the rink is closed on several Mondays and Wednesdays throughout their season.
From now until Feb. 21
Year-Round Indoor Ice-Skating Rinks
The ICE
This complex opened in 2010 with the goal of bringing ice sports to Forsyth County. They offer figure skating and hockey as well as lessons and times to skate for fun.
Center Ice Arena
You can learn to skate, play hockey, have a skate party or just skate for fun at this arena in Sandy Springs.
Atlanta IceForum
This center has a sports bar/restaurant, adult hockey, youth hockey, figure skating, skate lessons and free skate time – offering a one-stop-shop for ice skating fun for the whole family.
The Cooler Alpharetta Family Skate Center
If you’re in the Alpharetta area, this is the perfect spot for public ice skating indoors, hockey clubs, figure skating and ice skating camps and clinics.
As you can see, there are many options for holiday skating in Atlanta this year. No matter what part of town you’re in or what type of experience you’re looking for, there is something for every individual or family on every type of budget. Check out some of the best places to ice skate in Atlanta if you’re looking for a seasonal glide across the ice this winter.
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