The Best Ice Skating Rinks to Check Out in Northern Virginia
- Gunther and Holly Hemmer
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- Feb 20
- 3 min read

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing better than lacing up your skates and getting out on the ice. Whether you’re planning a festive night out, a family weekend activity, or just want to practice your skills, Northern Virginia has plenty of great rinks to explore — both indoors and outdoors.
Here’s a full breakdown of where to skate this season.
Alexandria
Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run
November 28, 2025 – February 28, 2026 (hours vary)
If you’re heading to Cameron Run Regional Park for the annual holiday lights, make sure you carve out time for the ice rink too. The outdoor setup gives you that classic winter village feel — perfect for photos and seasonal fun. Keep in mind that tickets are only sold online.
📍 4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria
Arlington
MedStar Capitals Iceplex
Open daily (hours vary)
Ever wanted to skate where the Washington Capitals practice? This indoor rink gives you the chance. The facility offers public skating sessions, lessons for both skating and hockey, and even pickup hockey games. It’s a great option if you prefer an indoor rink experience.
📍 627 N. Glebe Rd., Ste. 800, Arlington
Westpost Outdoor Ice Skating at National Landing
Open daily (hours vary)
At 7,200 square feet, this rink at Pentagon Row is considered the largest outdoor rink in Northern Virginia and the second largest in Virginia. After skating, you can warm up by the dual-sided stone fireplace, shop nearby, or grab hot chocolate. Reservations are recommended and open two weeks in advance.
📍 1201 S. Joyce St., Arlington
Fairfax
Fairfax Ice Arena
Open daily (hours vary)
This year-round indoor rink offers something for everyone. You can attend public skating sessions, schedule private lessons, or even host birthday parties. Frequent skaters can purchase a discount card.
In November, Girl Scouts receive discounted admission and a free beginner lesson every Saturday. The rink also hosts themed public skate nights like The Life of a Skater (inspired by Taylor Swift) and the festive Ugly Holiday Sweater Skate.
📍 3779 Pickett Rd., Fairfax
Reston Town Center Pavilion
November 7, 2025 – March 8, 2026 (weather permitting)
Each winter, the Pavilion transforms into a seasonal ice rink. It’s open through early March, depending on weather conditions. Guests must make an online reservation before arriving.
📍 1818 Discovery St., Reston
kateQuest
Open Wednesdays, Fridays, and weekends (hours vary)
SkateQuest features two rinks — one NHL-sized and one Olympic-sized — allowing them to host hockey, figure skating, and public sessions. It’s a solid choice for skaters of all ages and experience levels.
📍 1800 Michael Faraday Ct., Reston
Loudoun County
Ashburn Ice House
Open daily (hours vary)
Ashburn Ice House offers daily public skating along with lessons in general skating, hockey, and figure skating. There’s also a pro shop on-site for skating gear.
Special events include Rockin’ Skate every Friday night and Playground on Ice for kids ages 2 to 8. Public skating sessions require advance online registration.
📍 21595 Smith Switch Rd., Ashburn
Ion International Training Center
Open weekends (hours vary)
This modern facility in Leesburg caters to both recreational skaters and competitive athletes. You can train in hockey, figure skating, or ice dancing. If skating isn’t your thing, they also offer curling classes. No pre-registration is required for public skating sessions.
📍 19201 Compass Creek Pkwy., Leesburg
Prince William County
Harris Pavilion
Open daily November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Located in Manassas, this outdoor rink is open for the holiday season. Online reservations are available, and groups of 10 or more can skate (including rentals) for $13 per person.
📍 9201 Center St., Manassas
Haymarket IcePlex
Open daily except Tuesdays (hours vary)
This iceplex offers public skate nights as well as private lessons in skating, hockey, and figure skating. On weekends, it’s a good idea to arrive about 30 minutes early to avoid waiting in line.
📍 15155 Washington St., Haymarket
No matter your skill level, Northern Virginia has plenty of options to get you on the ice this season. Whether you’re looking for a festive outdoor rink or a professional indoor facility, there’s something nearby to make the most of winter.




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