Best Ice-Skating Rinks Around DC This Holiday Season

Few winter traditions capture DC’s holiday magic like gliding beneath the stars at the city’s outdoor rinks. From the Georgetown Waterfront to The Wharf, skating season brings twinkle lights, cocoa stands, and festive music to every corner of the capital.

Whether you are skating by the monuments or along the waterfront, these rinks offer the perfect mix of charm and cheer.

The Wharf Ice Rink

Transit Pier, 970 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024 Metro: L’Enfant Plaza (Green, Yellow, Blue, Orange, Silver) When: Late November through February Admission: Adults $13, Children $10, Skate Rental $7 Buy Tickets → The Wharf DC → Perched over the Potomac at Transit Pier, this rink offers waterfront views, festive lights, and nearby fire pits. This is our kids’ favorite place to ice skate in the area!

Goodhart Tip: Grab a warm drink from Camp Wharf at the Firepit or plan dinner at any of the incredible restaurants at The Wharf after skating.

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink

7th St and Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20408 Metro: Archives–Navy Memorial or Smithsonian When: Late November through early March Admission: Adults $12, Children $10, Skate Rental $6 Tickets and Info → National Gallery of Art → Set amid the Sculpture Garden’s iconic artworks and twinkling trees just steps from the National Mall, this rink delivers a classic DC experience. The Pavilion Café is perfect for a post-skate warm-up.

Goodhart Tip: Visit right before dusk so you are on the ice when the lights come on. Magical! Pair this with a trip to the Natural History Museum.

Georgetown Waterfront Park Ice Rink

3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007 Metro: Foggy Bottom (Blue, Orange, Silver) then a 15-minute walk to the waterfront When: Mid-November through early March Admission: Adults $11, Children $9, Skate Rental $7 Tickets and Hours → Georgetown Waterfront Park Info → With views of the Potomac River and Key Bridge, this rink is one of DC’s most scenic winter spots. After skating, warm up with hot cocoa at Tony & Joe’s or Fiola Mare.

Goodhart Tip: Arrive around sunset for golden-hour photos on the ice.

Pentagon Row Outdoor Ice Rink

1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202 Metro: Pentagon City (Blue, Yellow) When: Late October through March Admission: Adults $11, Children $10, Skate Rental $6 Reserve Tickets → Westpost at National Landing → Northern Virginia’s largest outdoor rink sits in a lively plaza with restaurants, shops, and cozy seating areas.

Goodhart Tip: Book a table at Matchbox or Basic Burger overlooking the rink.

Reston Town Center Ice Rink

11900 Market St, Reston, VA 20190 Silver Line: Reston Town Center Station then a short walk When: Early November through mid-March Admission: Adults $11, Children $9, Skate Rental $7 Book Online → Reston Town Center Events → A beloved suburban spot with twinkling lights, music, and frequent weekend events. Great for families west of the city.

Goodhart Tip: Pair your visit with dinner at Barcelona Wine Bar or Ted’s Bulletin next to the rink.

Pro Tips for Skating Season

Dress in layers and bring gloves and a scarf
Check each rink’s website for weather closures before heading out
Weekday afternoons and early evenings are less crowded
Many rinks offer season passes or group discounts
Parking fills quickly at Georgetown and The Wharf, so consider Metro or rideshare

Goodhart Tip: Combine skating with a holiday stroll through Georgetown GLOW, a visit to the National Christmas Tree, or dinner nearby to make it a full festive outing.

Explore More Holiday Cheer

Discover even more festive fun around the region: The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Activities in Washington, DC →

Thinking About Making a Move This Holiday Season? The Goodhart Group has helped DC-area families buy and sell homes for more than 30 years. We make every move seamless and stress free. Whether you are planning for the new year or just exploring options, we are here to help you find your perfect home. Sue Goodhart | sue@thegoodhartgroup.com | 703-362-3221 Allison Goodhart DuShuttle | allison@thegoodhartgroup.com | 703-266-7277 Looking for more real estate insights and the latest listings delivered right to your inbox? Sign up for our newsletter right here.

Newsletter Signup

"*" indicates required fields

Looking For Additional Resources?

We’ve got you covered. Click the button below to download our lifestyle, real estate, and area guides.

Get Our Guides