From gliding beneath city lights in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to skating across frozen lakes surrounded by forests, there’s no better way to celebrate the winter season. Whether you’re a practiced skater or just in it for the hot cocoa, Pennsylvania offers plenty of places to make the most of winter’s chill and ice.
Outdoor Ice-Skating Rinks
Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink at Dilworth Park
Philadelphia
Set against the historic backdrop of Philadelphia’s City Hall, the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink transforms Dilworth Park into a sparkling winter wonderland each year. Skaters glide beneath twinkling lights, sip hot cocoa, and soak in the city’s festive energy. During the holiday season, the rink is framed by the lively Christmas Village, complete with food and drink vendors, a Ferris wheel, and a towering, larger-than-life Christmas tree. With its central location and festive atmosphere, it’s one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic spots to experience the magic of winter.
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Philadelphia
Grab your skates and a friend or two for 90 minutes of a fun-filled ice skating adventure at the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest. Now in its 32nd season, Winterfest is one of Philadelphia's favorite winter traditions on the Philly Waterfront. The Olympic-size ice skating rink overlooking the Delaware River comes complete with all the ice-skating amenities, including comforting warming cabins, an outdoor seating area with fire pits, and games for the young and young-at-heart. Ordering tickets online is highly recommended with a limited number of tickets available for each date and time.
UPMC Rink at PPG Place
Pittsburgh
In the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, the UPMC Rink at PPG Place offers a picture-perfect skating experience. Each winter, the rink surrounds a towering Christmas tree, framed by sparkling holiday lights and the city’s iconic glass towers. Open from mid-November through early March, it’s a festive destination for skaters of all levels. Since opening in 2001, the rink has grown into a beloved city tradition and a highlight of Pittsburgh’s winter season.
Earl E. Schaffer Bethlehem Municipal Ice Rink
Bethlehem
As the oldest outdoor municipal rink in the Lehigh Valley, the Earl E. Schaffer Bethlehem Ice Rink continues the beloved town tradition of community and winter fun. This open-air rink, the region’s only Olympic-sized outdoor facility, welcomes skaters of all ages to enjoy crisp air and plenty of activity. With skate rentals, lessons, and frequent public sessions, it’s a laid-back, family-friendly spot to make the most of a cold Pennsylvania day.
Ice Skating in PA's State Parks
Presque Isle State Park
Erie
When winter settles over Lake Erie, Presque Isle State Park becomes a natural wonderland for outdoor skating. On calm, cold days, sections of the parks’ ponds and lagoons freeze over, offering an unforgettable experience for adventurous skaters. Surrounded by snow-covered trees and lake views, it’s a peaceful way to enjoy the quiet beauty of Pennsylvania’s northwestern coast.
Cook Forest State Park
Cooksburg
In the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds, Cook Forest State Park offers an enchanting backdrop for ice skating. The Clarion River and nearby ponds provide natural ice surfaces surrounded by towering hemlocks and pine. Visitors can pair a skate with 10 acres of sledding slopes, and three designated cross-country ski trails along River Road.
Little Buffalo State Park
Newport
Little Buffalo State Park becomes a winter playground when Holman Lake freezes, offering skaters scenic views of rolling hills and snow-dusted woods. Ice skating is permitted on the lake’s natural ice, and, when conditions permit, a two-acre area is maintained near the Main Boat Launch. Open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., the rink provides a calm, family-friendly outing complete with heated restrooms for added comfort.
With plenty of outdoor rinks to explore, Pennsylvania is the perfect place to lace up and embrace winter. Looking for more cold weather fun? Pair your time on the ice with skiing, snowmobiling, snow tubing adventures, and other things to do in PA this winter.