Happy Travelers like their ice with some outdoor ambience. Pennsylvania’s stunning winter landscapes and spirited holiday celebrations at these outdoor skating experiences are a real treat. It’s time to lace up, grab some hot cocoa, don your favorite scarf, and get ready to enjoy some outdoor fun this winter — triple Lutz not required.
1. Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink at Dilworth Park
Philadelphia
Each year, the fountain area in Philadelphia’s Dilworth Park is magically transformed into a winter wonderland. Ice skate or sled skate at the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink at Dilworth Park, then relax with some spirited beverages and refreshments at The Rothman Cabin. Afterwards, stroll among the holiday topiaries, twinkling lights, and seasonal plants of the Wintergarden.
2. MassMutual Pittsburgh Ice Rink at PPG Place
Pittsburgh
The MassMutual Pittsburgh Ice Rink at PPG Place in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh is, without a doubt, the best place for outdoor skating in the Steel City. Open from November to March, the rink at PPG Place is bigger than the rink at Rockefeller Center (67 percent larger to be exact!) and comes alive for the holidays with special traditions, including skating with Santa.
3. Lake Teedyuskung at Woodloch Resort
Hawley
Lake Teedyuskung at Woodloch Resort in Hawley offers breathtaking ice skating at one of America’s “Best Inclusive Family Resorts” in the Pocono Mountains. Challenge your friends and family to a pickup game of hockey with sticks and pucks available from the skate shop.
4. Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Philadelphia
Grab your skates and a friend or two for a fun-filled ice skating adventure at the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest in Philadelphia. Celebrating its 25th year, this Olympic-size ice skating rink overlooking the Delaware River comes complete with all the ice-skating amenities, including a chalet-style lodge, outdoor seating area with fire pits, warming cabins, and a kids’ lodge with arcade games.
5. Parker Lake at Parker Dam State Park
Penfield
Parker Lake at Parker Dam State Park in the heart of Moshannon State Forest in Penfield offers some old-fashioned, rustic ice skating charm. Park staff clear snow off the ice to make a rink near the summer swimming area and carefully monitor the ice thickness to ensure all have a fun and safe time skating in their winter wonderland.
6. The Lodge at Glendorn
Bradford
The Lodge at Glendorn in Bradford offers the ultimate pampered outdoor ice skating experience. Take a few spins around Skipper Lake, then stop by the warming schoolhouse for some homemade hot chocolate and s’mores. Skate and repeat! Afterwards, perfect your sweeping skills with a friendly game of curling at the resort’s specially made curling sheet.
7. Skytop Lodge
Skytop
Take in the open air on Skytop Lodge’s skating rink on the frozen lake and then warm up in this grand resort, on the list of Historic Hotels in America. Thrill-seeking travelers can check out the resort’s other winter activities, which include cross-country skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing, and tobogganing.
8. The Earl E. Schaffer Bethlehem Ice Rink
Bethlehem
The Earl E. Schaffer Bethlehem Ice Rink is a great way to take in the season in Christmas City. Open from November to March, all ages can get in on the fun with skating lessons from an expert. If you’re already a pro skater (we’re jealous), try your hand at ice hockey.
9. Liberty Mountain Resort
Carroll Valley
Liberty Mountain Resort in Carroll Valley is not just a great skiing destination, but also features an outdoor ice skating rink in the Alpine Courtyard. You’ll be treated to some stunning views of the resort and the slopes as you glide across the ice. Slip on some skis or skates, or both — your choice!
Looking for more ways to have fun this winter in Pennsylvania? If so, check out the visitPA website. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram to stay up-to-date on even more great ideas and places to visit around our state.