Outdoor Ice Rinks in Alabama: If you’re anything like me, there’s a charm in facing the Alabama chill for some ice skating fun. Picture bundling up in cozy coats, warm socks, sipping on hot chocolate, and gliding under the starseven if it includes a tumble or two.
Discover five outdoor ice rinks in Alabama to embrace the holiday spirit this autumn and winter.
1. Holidays on the PlazaTuscaloosa
Every year, the City of Tuscaloosa invites a gathering of skaters to Government Plaza for Holidays on the Plaza. Beyond the joy of outdoor skating, the celebration features the sparkling Tinsel Trail, a fundraiser for Tuscaloosa’s One Place.
- When: November 24-January 15
- Where: Government Plaza, 618 21st Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
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2. Sand Mountain SkateAlbertville
Ever dreamt of gliding on ice inside an amphitheater? Well, guess what? Sand Mountain Skate is making it happen in Albertville this year. Get ready for a fantastic ice rink experience, complete with delicious food and drinks available on-site. And hey, you can even book private events there!
- When: November 18-January 13 (full schedule)
- Where: Sand Mountain Park + Amphitheater, S.M.P.A. Blvd, Albertville, AL 35950
3. Skating in the ParkHuntsville
In its eleventh season, Skating in the Park has solidified itself as a Huntsville holiday tradition. Nestled in the heart of downtown Huntsville’s Big Spring Park, this ice rink is a festive hub of smiling faces, holiday tunes, and twinkling lights.
- When: November 17-January 2 (full schedule)
- Where: Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
4. Downtown Holiday Ice SkatingAuburn
Downtown Auburn is set to shine a bit brighter from December 15 with the city’s expansive over-1,000-square-foot ice rink. Don’t forget to explore the charming shops and eateries in the downtown area while you’re there.
- When: December 15-31 (full schedule)
- Where: Gay Street Parking Lot
5. Christmas on the CoosaGadsden
5. Christmas on the CoosaGadsdenFrom December 2 to 23, Christmas on the Coosa promises a daily dose of festive fun with vendors, skaters, crafters, food trucks, and more along the scenic Coosa River. The Polar Bear Club features life-size polar bear statues for fantastic Instagram shots, and special guests like the Grinch and Santa will be making appearances.
- When: December 2-23
- Where: 344 S 1st St, Gadsden, AL 35901
Our Reader’s Queries
Do you have to pay to ice skate at Bryant Park?
Secure your time slot for skating today! Just a heads up: entry to the rink is on the house, and feel free to bring your own skates if you already own a pair. You will, however, need to pay for skate rentals.
How to make a cheap outdoor ice rink?
1. Decide on the size and space for your ice rink.
2. Mark out your rink and make sure the ground is level.
3. Set up and construct the frame for your rink.
4. Add a second layer if necessary.
5. Build supports and braces for stability.
6. Place the liner inside the frame.
7. Fill the rink with water.
How do they keep outdoor ice rinks frozen?
Places like Florida and California use a substance called propylene glycol to create ice skating rinks. This glycol runs through pipes, pumping coolness throughout a system underneath the ice.
Are there fake ice rinks?
Turn your basement, garage, driveway, or backyard into your very own private skating and training arena with our cost-effective and personalized synthetic ice rinks. Whether you want to work on your skating, stickhandling, or shooting, our custom-sized surfaces provide the perfect year-round practice space.