Ice Skating Rinks in San Diego

Whether you want to zoom around an indoor ice rink like a pro, or try out skating for the first time next to the sea, San Diego has an ice skating rink for everyone in your family.

We’ve listed the best ice rinks here in San Diego as well as shared some tips on how to plan your effortless skating adventure this holiday season!

The Kroc Center Ice Arena

Located inside the 12-acre Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in East San Diego, the fabulous Kroc Ice Arena is open year-round. It is San Diego’s go-to for public ice skating and all ice sports including ice skating sessions, ice hockey classes, and figure skating. Holiday Skating  is $15, which includes admission and skate rental, from December 21-January 4!

Rady Children’s Ice Rink

Skate for a wonderful cause, now through January 5, at the Rady Children’s Ice Rink in Liberty Station. The beautifully-decorated outdoor rink is open daily from 10 a.m to 10 p.m. and skate rentals and helmets are included in the admission price. Proceeds benefit the Thriving After Cancer program in the Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Rady Children’s.

Skating By The Sea

The stunning ice rink on the sand at the Hotel Del Coronado returns this year for another season of gorgeous sights and lights through January 6.  Skate by incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, and partake in delicious hot cocoa and treats after you’re done. Plus, your admission ticket benefits Make-A-Wish San Diego.

Viejas Casino + Resort Ice Rink

Located in Alpine, Viejas Casino boasts Southern California’s largest outdoor ice rink. Bring the family to delight in Viejas’ decked-out halls, holiday lights, and family-friendly entertainment. They also offer seasonal passes to the ice rink if you find that you just can’t get enough!

Iceplex Escondido

From December 20-30, Iceplex Escondido hosts their Winter Wonderland – a wonderland on ice! For just $10 per person, your whole family will enjoy skating around a beautifully lit Christmas tree on an Olympic-sized ice rink; festive holiday music; and unlimited same day re-entry. Skate rentals are included!

UTC ICE

UTC Ice Sports Center is not only a fantastic ice rink but is also the perfect respite from a busy shopping day. Located inside the newly remodeled Westfield UTC Shopping Centre, your family can pair its skating trip with holiday shopping, seeing a movie at the Arclight theatre, or enjoying a delicious lunch at one of the center’s many excellent restaurants.

Tips to Plan Ahead For Your Ice Skating Trip

Not sure when to go, what to bring or how to get started? Here are some great tips to ensure your family has a smooth, fun day at the rink:

• Remember your skates, if you have them. You’ll save a few dollars on a skate rental if you bring your own.
• Pack some healthy snacks and bring lots of water. Many ice rinks offer limited (and not always healthy) food options. And you might be surprised at how thirsty you feel after even just a half hour of skating – it’s a great calorie-burner!
• A weekday afternoon is the optimal time to go skating, as it will be the least crowded. If you can’t make that work, try for a weeknight (Monday – Wednesday are the best options for less crowds).
• Bring sweaters, jackets, gloves and/or scarves. Even indoor ice rinks can get quite chilly, so bundle up to make sure everyone in your family stays warm and comfortable.
• If you’ve never been skating before, sign up for a beginner’s lesson to get familiar with the ice! Many of the ice rinks listed above offer inexpensive introductory lessons for all ages. In fact, UTC Ice offers a free introductory lesson (first come, first serve) to San Diego residents on Saturdays at 11:15 am.

Check out all of Scripps Affiliated Medical Groups’ articles for the best, most affordable holiday activities for your whole family.