Have an Ice Day at Charlotte's Skating Rinks
Nothing says holiday fun like spending a few hours on the ice.
by DeAnna Taylor Nov 22, 2019
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Yep, it’s the holiday season. Time for hot cocoa and marshmallows, warm flannels, and spending time with the ones you love most. It’s also the perfect time for little adventure at your local ice skating rink.
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this winter activity is sure to bring lots of fun to all. Need ideas on where to go? We’ve got you covered. Here are 7 rinks in or near the Charlotte area.
Holiday on Ice
Dates: Nov. 15 – Jan. 5
Price: $16 per person (includes skate rental); $12 for those that bring their own skates
This outdoor rink is in the heart of Uptown Charlotte. Take in the views of the city’s skyline as you zip around the ice. Need a mid-skate snack? There’s usually a hot dog stand and hot coco on-site. Holiday on Ice officially opens on November 15 for the 2019 holiday season and will run until Sunday, January 5. *Note: You can only pay by card when purchasing tickets online or at the venue.
Carowinds Winterfest
Dates: Nov. 24 – Dec. 31
Price: $15 per person ($12.50 per person with 4 or more)
Make your way to North Carolina and South Carolina’s joint amusement park this holiday season. From November 24- December 31, Carowinds will transform into all things Winter including a Winterfest Wonderland parade that will debut for the first time this year. Park hours will vary for the special event, so you should refer to the park’s website for details
U.S. National Whitewater Center
Dates: Nov. 19 – Feb. 16
Price: $20 (single activity pass); $58 (full day activity pass)
This is a new addition for the Whitewater Center and it is slated to open in mid-November. The 17,000 square foot ice rink will be created on the Upper Pond of the whitewater river. This holiday experience will be split into three sections: free skate area, a space for winter sports, and a 600-foot ice trail. When you need a break from the rink, grab a bite or a beer at the on-ice airstream bar. Once you’re done, walk along the half-mile trail that will feature an immersive light installation created by local artist, Meredith Connelly.
Founders Holiday Ice Rink
Dates: Nov. 15 – Jan. 20
Price: $10 (includes skate rental)
Make your way down I-77S for this family-friendly outdoor skating experience. Located in the heart of Rock Hill’s Old Town, this rink will open for the season on November 15. Get ready for special events such as food truck night, a Harry Potter night, as well as a 4-day fest that will bring all things Christmas themed. Everyone Wednesday is buy one get one free, where two people can skate for the price of one.
Winter Wonderland Southpark
Dates: Nov. 29 – Jan. 5
Price: $17 (2hr skate time + skate rental); $12 (2hr skate with own skates)
Each year this holiday experience gets bigger and better, and this season will be no exception. There will be themed nights, winter sports games, and even some awesome giveaways. Get ready to see some of your favorite characters, hang out with Santa, and even listen to live music as you skate the day or night away. This open-air rink will surely be a hit.
Extreme Ice Center
Dates: Year Round
Price: $7 (Monday - Friday afternoon); $10 (Friday evening - Sunday and Holidays) Skate rental: $4
This indoor Indian Trail center is less than a 30-minute drive from Charlotte’s city center. They offer daily public skating, hockey lessons, as well as private skating lessons. You’ll truly feel as though you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland when this rink blows out fake snow during your visit. For those with little ones who may be afraid to skate on their own, Extreme Ice Center offers skating aids, including an adorable seal-shaped one that they call Bobby. Did we mention, they’re open all year round?
Pineville Ice House
Dates: Year Round
Price: $10 (includes skate rental); $8 if you bring your own skates
Located just off of exit 64B of I-485, is where you will find this massive indoor rink. They are open all year and the public ice skating times vary each day. As we near the holiday season, the hours will extend. This Pineville-area hangout also has a snack bar that offers beer and wine, hot appetizers and entrees, as well as hot cocoa and coffee. They offer figure skates or hockey skates, if you have a preference.
