Cold Hands, Happy Hearts: Skating Through Washington, DC
- Stephane Benoist
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
With polar cold sweeping into the nation’s capital, winter suddenly feels like an invitation rather than a challenge. This is the season to lace up your skates, exhale little clouds of frosty air, and glide beneath twinkling lights with the Potomac quietly doing its thing nearby. Washington, DC may be known for monuments and museums, but come winter, it turns into a surprisingly playful skating city—complete with pop-up rinks, beloved classics, and a few spots where culture and cardio collide.
When it comes to ice skating with a seriously photogenic backdrop, New York may flaunt Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center—but Washington, DC has a rink where culture steals the spotlight. Cue the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden Ice Rink, easily one of the most charming places to skate in the country. Tucked between the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall, this outdoor favorite has opened for the season since Saturday, November 23, and stays open through March 2, weather permitting.
Here, skaters of all levels zip, wobble, and twirl past larger-than-life works by art-world icons like Alexander Calder, Roy Lichtenstein, and Louise Bourgeois. It’s part winter workout, part open-air museum visit, and entirely delightful. Between laps, warm up with a hot chocolate or coffee from the rink’s café, then hop back on the ice to show off your moves—or at least your enthusiasm. Tickets include two back-to-back 45-minute skating sessions, which means plenty of time to soak up the art, the laughs, and that unmistakable DC winter buzz.
Whether you’re a seasoned skater perfecting your turns or a first-timer clinging bravely to the rail, ice skating in Washington is less about perfection and more about the moment. Add a scarf, bring a friend, and embrace the joy of doing something delightfully impractical in the middle of a very serious city. Winter in DC has never looked so fun.
Fort Dupont Ice Arena: a long-awaited return
In Southeast DC, Fort Dupont Ice Arena (3779 Ely Place SE) reopened on Saturday, December 6, 2025, after nearly two years of construction and an investment of approximately $39 million for a complete renovation. Mayor Muriel Bowser presided over the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the return of this important community facility to the capital’s skating scene.
The revamped Fort Dupont now features an NHL-size rink, modern locker rooms, improved spectator areas, and redesigned spaces dedicated to community programs. Operated by the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), the arena is more than just a place to skate—it is a year-round hub offering public skating sessions, lessons for beginners and advanced skaters alike, and a wide range of programming, from introductory classes to social skating events.
Throughout December, skating sessions are offered free of charge, making Fort Dupont an excellent choice for families or anyone discovering ice skating for the first time. Regular activities include “Learn-to-Skate” sessions, Glow Nights, and Adult Social Skate evenings, reinforcing the arena’s role as both a recreational and social destination.
Washington Harbour Ice Rink: skating along the Potomac
For those who want to combine skating with iconic scenery, the Washington Harbour Ice Rink in Georgetown remains a winter favorite. This large outdoor rink, set directly along the Potomac River, offers sweeping views of historic bridges, waterfront architecture, and the softly illuminated city skyline—especially enchanting at dusk.
The 2025–2026 season typically runs from mid-November through early March, weather permitting. Often cited as one of the largest outdoor ice rinks in the city, it attracts a diverse crowd: families, couples on romantic outings, and groups of friends. Skate rentals are available on site, sessions are generally scheduled in 90-minute blocks, and advance reservations are strongly recommended during peak holiday periods.
The Wharf Ice Rink: skating by the water
Just southwest of downtown, The Wharf Ice Rink offers a distinctly maritime skating experience. Located on Transit Pier, directly in front of The Anthem concert hall, the rink gives skaters the unique sensation of gliding almost above the water, surrounded by a lively mix of restaurants, bars, and boutiques.
Typically open from late November through late February, this rink is ideal for an evening outing—perhaps after dinner or before a show. In addition to public skating and skate rentals, The Wharf occasionally hosts themed nights and offers private rentals for special events, adding to its festive appeal.
Canal Park Ice Rink: neighborhood charm at Capitol Riverfront
In the vibrant Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, the Canal Park Ice Rink offers a more intimate, community-oriented atmosphere. Open throughout the winter season, it features affordable pricing, on-site skate rentals, and packages for birthdays and private gatherings.
With generous evening hours—often extending until 10 p.m. on select nights—and its friendly neighborhood feel, Canal Park is especially popular for after-work skating or relaxed family outings.
National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Rink: art and ice in the city center
For a uniquely cultural skating experience, the rink at the Sculpture Garden of the National Gallery of Art is among the most charming in Washington. Set within a landscaped garden surrounded by major works of modern sculpture, this rink blends art, architecture, and winter leisure.
It offers public skating sessions, lessons, and group reservations, and its refined yet relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite among both locals and international visitors. After skating, many linger nearby with a warm drink, making it as much a social experience as a sporting one.
Tips for making the most of your skating experience
🍁 Plan ahead – Seasonal rinks operate on fixed schedules and session times. Checking hours and booking online in advance can save time and frustration.
🥾 Choose off-peak hours – Weekday afternoons tend to be quieter, offering smoother ice and fewer crowds.
☕ Warm up afterward – Many rinks, particularly those at Washington Harbour and The Wharf, are surrounded by cafés and restaurants perfect for a hot chocolate or cozy meal after skating.
Whether you are an experienced skater or simply looking to enjoy the magic of winter in Washington, DC, these ice rinks offer memorable and varied experiences. Gliding beneath twinkling lights, feeling the cold on your cheeks, and sharing laughter on the ice capture the true spirit of winter in the nation’s capital.
Header Photo Credit: Renya Sh https://www.pexels.com/photo/mother-with-a-child-playing-in-snow-11305325/
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