Rinks Perfect for Ice Skating in Pittsburgh: Holiday Edition

The UPMC Rink at PPG Place

The holiday season marks the grand return of every Yinzer’s favorite ice rink. The UMPC Rink at PPG Place is 67% larger than the Rockefeller Center ice rink and is two-thirds the size of the ice at PPG Paints Arena. Grab your friends and family and skate around the beautiful Christmas tree while enjoying the views of the PPG buildings. While down there, be sure to check out the Spirits of Giving display, as well as, the Peoples Gas Holiday Market! To help ensure skater safety, the UPMC Rink will be following all guidelines set by the CDC. Please check their website for a complete list of COVID-19 precautions.

Schenley Park Ice Rink

Kick off your holiday season with a trip to the park! Originally opening in 1975, the Schenley Park Ice Skating Rink is a beloved tradition of many Pittsburgh families. Schenley Park is one of the city’s most stunning areas and the sparkle of the ice combined with joyous laughter makes it all the more special! Plus, make the most of your trip to Oakland by visiting Phipps Conservatory’s Winter Flower Show. Is it really ice skating in Pittsburgh without a few laps at one of the best outdoor rinks in the area? We think not!

South Park Ice Rink

Lace up your skates and head over to South Park! Located just outside of the city, this outdoor rink is open all winter long and offers scenic views of the surrounding woodlands. The South Park Ice Rink also hosts fun events including numerous hockey programming, rink rentals and more. Tickets and skate rentals are extremely affordable and allow for many trips over the course of the winter months.

North Park Ice Rink

Just like its sister park to the south, North Park also features a fantastic outdoor ice rink! They also offer numerous hockey programs, rink rentals, as well as, public skating, tiny tot skating and more. It has been providing residents with down-home family fun since opening its gates way back in 1961. The rink features two identical Swiss chalet-style clubhouses making for that perfect holiday backdrop.

Ice Castle Arena

We can’t talk about ice skating in Pittsburgh without mentioning our area’s favorite castle…literally! Ice Castle is open year-round but there’s just something a bit more special about skating during the holiday season. Featuring two NHL regulation size rinks, there are plenty of room for beginners and pros to zoom around the arena. Plus, they know ice skating works up an appetite so they installed a fantastic Snack Bar to “satisfy your cravings.”

Discounted skating passes are offered to frequent visitors and they also offer gift cards, a perfect stocking stuffer!