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Looking for the best ice skating rinks in San Francisco and the bay area? San Francisco and its surrounding areas transform into a festive paradise during the holiday season, boasting some of the best ice skating rinks in California.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced skater, each rink offers a unique experience with stunning backdrops and exciting events. Here’s your ultimate guide to ice skating rinks in San Francisco and the bay area, complete with all the details you need for a memorable skating season.
Ice Skating Rinks in San Francisco: Union Square Ice Rink
The Union Square ice rink is a centerpiece of San Francisco’s holiday tradition, located at 333 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94108.
This outdoor ice rink is open from early November to January, providing a magical skating experience under the city’s lights. General admission is around $20 for adults and $15 for children, including skate rental, for a 60-minute session.
Don’t miss their special events like Drag Queens on Ice and Flashback Fridays, adding an extra sparkle to your skating experience. For more information and to book your time slot, visit the Union Square Ice Rink website.
Ice Skating Rinks in San Francisco: Yerba Buena Ice Skating
Yerba Buena ice skating, located at 750 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94107, is an indoor rink open year-round.
It’s a fantastic spot for both figure skating and public skating. Admission costs vary and skate rental is always available. Yerba Buena offers a variety of programs, including figure skating lessons and hockey leagues.
For more information on opening hours and pricing, visit the Yerba Buena Ice Skating website.
Ice Skating Rinks in San Francisco: Thrive City Winter Wonderland
Located in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, Thrive City Winter Wonderland offers a seasonal outdoor rink with stunning views, at 1 Warriors Way, San Francisco, CA 94158.
Open from November to January, the rink is part of a larger holiday festival, complete with Christmas trees and hot chocolate stands. Admission includes skate rental, and is free for 20-30 minutes. A few of the dates are sold out as I write this so visit the Thrive City Winter Wonderland website for specific dates and times.
The above 3 are highly rated ice skating rinks in San Francisco. If you are an ice skating lover and want to try out more Bay Area ice skating rinks, I have included more ice skating rinks below. Some are year round Bay Area ice skating rinks and others are just open for the festive period.
Enchant San Jose
Just a short drive from San Francisco, Enchant San Jose transforms the city into a festive paradise. The rink, located at 180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110, is open from late November to December 31, offering an outdoor skating experience amidst dazzling light displays and holiday decorations.
General admission to the magic, including skate rental, is approximately $38. For more information on special events and hours, visit the Enchant San Jose website.
Apres Village at the Four Seasons in Palo Alto
Experience luxury skating at the Apres Village at the Four Seasons in Palo Alto, located at 2050 University Ave, East Palo Alto, CA 94303.
This rink, set amidst the elegance of the Four Seasons, offers a premium skating experience from November to January. With admission $30 for adults, including skate rental, it’s a great choice for a special outing. Visit the Four Seasons website for detailed information and to reserve your skating session.
Winter Village at Meritage Resort and Spa
The Winter Village at Meritage Resort and Spa, located at 875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA 94558, offers a beautiful outdoor ice rink.
Open from November to January, it’s a perfect getaway for wine lovers and skating enthusiasts. Admission is approximately $25 for adults, including skate rental. For more details, visit the Meritage Resort website.
Downtown Ice San Jose
Downtown Ice in San Jose is a must-visit outdoor rink, set against the backdrop of the city’s festive lights, located at 120 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113. Open from November to February, it offers an extended skating season.
Admission, including skate rental, is around $21 for adults. For more information on special events like New Year’s Eve skating, visit the Downtown Ice San Jose website.
The Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Rink
Located at City Center Bishop Ranch, 6000 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon, CA 94583, The Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Rink is a seasonal outdoor rink named after the Olympic figure skater.
Open from November to January, it offers public skating sessions, including skate rental. For more details on special events like the Polar Bear Skate, visit the City Center Bishop Ranch website.
Walnut Creek on Ice
Walnut Creek on Ice, set in Civic Park at 1375 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek, CA 94596, is an outdoor rink open from mid December to mid January.
With general admission around $20, including skate rental, it’s a popular destination for families and friends. For information on theme nights and public skating hours, visit the Walnut Creek on Ice website.
Oakland Ice Center
The Oakland Ice Center, managed by the San Jose Sharks, is an indoor rink open year-round, located at 519 18th St, Oakland, CA 94612.
It’s a hub for hockey players and figure skaters, with public skating sessions available that include skate rental. For more details on their programs and special events, visit the Oakland Ice Center website.
San Mateo on Ice
Located in Central Park at 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, San Mateo on Ice is a seasonal outdoor rink open from November to January. Admission is approximately $18, including skate rental. For more information on special events and public skating hours, visit the San Mateo on Ice website.
Snoopy’s Home Ice
Snoopy’s Home Ice, also known as the Redwood Empire Ice Arena, is at 1667 W Steele Ln, Santa Rosa, CA 95403.
This indoor rink offers a unique skating experience with its charming Peanuts-themed décor and is open year-round. Public skating sessions are available, with admission prices varying depending on the day you visit. Prices include skate rental.
For details on special events like the Silent Skate and free community skate days, visit the Snoopy’s Home Ice website.
In summary, ice skating rinks in San Francisco and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of experiences, from festive outdoor rinks to professional-grade indoor facilities.
Each rink has its unique charm and set of offerings, ensuring there’s something for everyone during the holiday season. Remember to check each rink’s website for the most up-to-date information on pricing, hours, and special events.
Whether you’re gliding under the stars at Union Square or enjoying a luxury skate at the Four Seasons, these San Francisco and bay area ice skating rinks provide the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable winter memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best ice skating in San Francisco
In my opinion, the best ice skating in San Francisco is in Union Square as it is so unique. You can ice skate in the sun during the day or have a festive night skate under the stars and lights of the city. I always stop by Union Square as soon as the tree and ice rink goes up! It’s definitely one of the top things to do in San Francisco at Christmas.
How much does ice skating rinks in San Francisco cost?
I have included some of the pricing for ice skating rinks in SF above. It varies from place to place so check out each website before you go incase there are price fluctuations around the holidays. Most of the prices above include ice skate rentals.
Is ice skating in San Francisco worth it?
I’m all about the festive spirit so I think anything festive is worth it! You have a huge range of ice rinks in the Bay area to choose from so pick the one that best suits you!
Before or after your ice skating, treat yourself and dine at one of these top San Francisco rooftop restaurants. If you are visiting San Francisco, find the best places to see the Golden Gate Bridge and the best bike rentals near Golden Gate Park.
Happy skating!
