Where to Take Kids Ice Skating in the Bay Area

As of September, 2020, most of these usual ice skating rinks have announced closures for the season while others have not. Drop us any links if you have news more current than ours.

Where I grew up, cold weather and snow meant it was time to dig out my brother’s and my ice skates. Fast forward to raising my own kiddos in the East Bay, ice skating is more of nostalgic activity for me, and something novel for my children. We like to get in at least one skate sesh every winter season and there happen to be a variety of both temporary and permanent Bay Area rinks nearby to choose from, making ice skating more accessible than ever!

East Bay Ice Skating Rinks

No news yet: Ice at The Veranda (Concord) Last year, we could strap on skates and take a spin on the ice this holiday season at The Veranda Nov. 8, 2019 – Feb. 17, 2020. Details >

Closed for 2020: Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Center (San Ramon) Last year, this seasonal rink was open from Nov. 15 through Jan. 5. Hope to see them in 2021.

Closed until further notice: Oakland Ice Center (Oakland) is our (510) permanent rink that offers public skate with the classic cling-to-the wall experience. Discounts on Tuesdays and family specials on Sundays. Kids can use plastic buckets for support on the ice. Details >

All programming cancelled until further notice: Sharks Ice (Fremont) is the sister rink to Oakland Ice, a permanent fixture for recreational skating and competitive training. Also offers public skate sessions. Details >

Closed for 2020: Walnut Creek on Ice. The partially enclosed ice rink in the heart of Downtown Walnut Creek at Civic Park welcomes skaters of all ages and abilities to skate daily hopes to be back in 2021. More details >

San Francisco Ice Rinks are closed for recreational skating

Public Skating is Closed: Yerba Buena’s Ice Rink (San Francisco) is adjacent to a bowling alley and close to the Children’s Creativity Museum and other SF treasures. It is open for youth fitness skating and hockey leagues only. More details about available programs >

Closed for 2020: The Winter Park Ice Rink at Civic Center (San Francisco) Postponed until 2021 holiday season.

Closed for 2020: Holiday Ice Rink (San Francisco) Usually at the Embarcadero, this temporary rink is the Bay Area’s largest outdoor ice rink. Details >

Closed for 2020: Union Square Ice Rink (San Francisco) This glorious under the tree experience is typically over-crowded and often sold out. Postponed until 2021 holiday season. Details >

Plan for skating with kids like a pro!

Tykes on ice can be hard, but being prepared doesn’t have to be.

• Cover little hands. I’ve learned that wearing a pair of knit or ski gloves can keep little hands warm and somewhat dry while also protecting from hard ice during any falls.
• Protect ankles. We wear longer athletic socks to protect our ankles in rental skates, footie socks would be uncomfortable.
• Layer up. We also dress in layers so it’s easy to discard if wet, or too warm. Ski pants are totally acceptable if you really want to get in the winter spirit.
• Change right away. We like to bring an extra pair of pants for post-skate change since my California child likes to play in the “snow” ie. ice sludge on the side of the rink.

Find more to do in our East Bay Holiday Activities Guide.

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