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Ice Skating in Chicago

Outdoor ice skating

 

There’s plenty of ice skating in Chicago downtown this year. If you’re staying downtown and looking for something within walking distance, ice skating in Chicago’s Millennium Park is a classic Windy City experience that’s easy to reach. For ice skating in Chicago that’s easy to access from areas beyond downtown, try the McKinley Ice Rink. Either way, you may love Skydeck’s choices for outdoor ice skating in Chicago!

Maggie Daley Park Ice Rink

The Maggie Dale Park Ice Rink features a quarter-mile-long, curving loop through the north side of Millennium Park. Imagine skating with a significant other on a loop right beneath the Chicago skyline, and you’ll get a sense of why this rink is likely the most popular option for ice skating in Chicago downtown: 

  • Dates: November 17th, 2023 – March 10th, 2024 
  • Admission: Entry fee runs between $16 and $22, which includes skate rentals on weekdays but costs an additional $5. Admission is free on Wednesdays if you bring your skates. 

McKinley Ice Rink

With fun on outdoor ice skating in Chicago, just peak at the McKinley Ice Rink on Chicago’s southwest side. Skaters of all levels have plenty of rinks to explore, and you can follow up your adventure with a hot personal-sized pie (sweet or savory) from Pleasant House Bakery.

  • Admission: Free
  • Dates: Opens in Late November. Open skate requires pre-registration and is from 3 to 7 p.m.
  • Skate Rentals: $7

McCormick Tribune Plaza & Ice Rink

There are two places for ice skating in Chicago’s Millennium Park. The first is Maggie Dale Park, mentioned above. The other option for ice skating in Chicago downtown is the McCormick Tribune Plaza & ice rink. During the summer, McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is disguised as an outdoor dining area. But come winter, it offers the picture-perfect outdoor ice skating in Chicago. Skate surrounded by breathtaking views, from the Chicago skyline to downtown decked out in Christmas lights.

  • Dates: November 17, 2023 to March 3, 2024
  • Admission: Free. Skate rentals are available for $13 weekdays/$15 weekends. 

Navy Pier Ice Rink 

When it’s too cold to skate outdoors, head to Navy Pier for a fully indoor ice-skating adventure. This regulation-size Alpine skating rink is located next to an interactive light display, several restaurants, and a kiddie train. Details are located below: 

  • Dates: Opening dates haven’t been announced, but last year, it ran from late November through early January. 
  • Admission: Information is pending. However, it was $13 last year. 

Fifth Third Arena Ice Rink 

Have you ever wanted to skate on the same ice as the Chicago Black Hawks? Then, head over to the Fifth Third Arena—just down the street from the United Center. This ice rink is open to the public several days a week, and it’s affordable. What’s more, Fifth Third Arena hosts a number of programs, including adult and youth hockey leagues, and you can even rent the rink out for private events. So when does it open, and how much does it cost? 

  • Date: Open year-round. 
  • Admission: Open seven days a week to the public on a first-come-first-serve basis. Entry costs $12, and skate rental $5. 

Plan Your Visit to the Willis Tower Skydeck!

Spending the afternoon enjoying the lights and ice skating in downtown Chicago? You can reach popular landmarks like the Willis Tower with just a quick walk. From family outings to private events, Skydeck remains a top attraction all year round. Get in touch today to learn more!