Hit the Ice in Houston

Nothing says “Baby It’s Cold Outside” like an ice skating rink. Even if it isn’t actually cold outside, ice skating rinks often conjure up images of sugar plum fairies and an impending visit from Santa Claus (or maybe Jack Frost if the Christmas season has already passed). In Texas, ice skating rinks are often easiest to enjoy indoors, where the normally warm temperatures can be kept intentionally chilly, but, during the winter months, it’s not unusual to see an outdoor rink or two pop up so everyone can enjoy an activity that is quintessentially meant to spread winter joy.

For the 2024/2025 holiday season, visitors to the greater Houston area will be delighted to find that there are multiple ice rinks popping up all over the area. Skaters can rent ice skates (or bring their own if they have them) and lace up for a little chilly fun. Don’t forget mittens (and maybe knee pads, especially if you are new to the ice!) to maximize enjoyment on a frozen rink. Grab your friends, maybe some hot cocoa, and let’s hit the ice this winter in Houston!

Five spots to ice skate this winter in Houston

• Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green– Houston’s only outdoor ice skating rink is open now through February 2, 2025. Skaters can hit the ice daily (times vary, check website for details) for $18 per 75-minute session. Enjoy skating under the bright lights of the big city at this picturesque ice rink designed to be enjoyed by skaters of all ages. 

• Ice Land at Moody Gardens– Located in Galveston, Ice Land is an ice skating rink located within the Festival of Lights hosted by Moody Gardens this holiday season. Now through January 2, guests to this spectacular holiday soiree can enjoy ice skating and more to make their season bright. Check the website for available dates. Tickets start at $12 (for daytime admission) and skate rental is $8. 

• The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center– This indoor ice rink is open year-round for skaters of all ages to enjoy. This spot offers lessons, hosts hockey teams, has open skating and more. This holiday season, check out special events here including Cookies & Cocoa with Santa, Icing & Ice Skates and more. 

• Ice at the Galleria– Broomball, anyone? Enjoy this activity and more at the gorgeous ice skating rink located at the Houston Galleria. Open year-round, this rink offers ice skating lessons and so much more. Public skate sessions this holiday season are $27 per person with or without skate rental. Hit the ice and then head to the food court for some nourishment before you shop til you dropped at Houston’s premiere shopping mall. 

• Ice Skate at Memorial City– Ice skate at Memorial City this holiday season for some chilly fun! The ice rink is hosting spirit days that encourage everyone to get in the spirit- check the website for more details. You can also visit this rink to see an on-ice production of The Nutcracker, take ice skating lessons and more. 

Houston lodging

Pack your bags and head to Houston this winter for mild Texas temperatures and big fun in the Lone Star State. When your travels take you to Space City, consider booking a stay at Traders Village RV Park, located on Houston’s northwest side. This RV park offers numerous amenities to visitors for both short and long-term stays, and it allows easy access to shopping, entertainment and dining at Traders Village Houston, a favorite flea market in the area. All the fun you could want in one great location. Happy travels!