On Not So Thin Ice

             With the availability of indoor ice rinks, ice skating is no longer something that requires meticulous attention to the thickness of the ice layer coating a lake or pond, or even cold weather for that matter. But there is something about being able to bundle up and glide on the ice underneath an open sky that just sets it apart from its more artificial alternative. And if that open sky is a nighttime sky with twinkling lights overhead then that experience becomes outright magical! Fortunately, there’s no shortage of options for doing this in DC with a variety of public rinks open across the city. Better yet, none of the options listed here risk reprisals from the Park Police, which is what could happen if you try to skate or walk on the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. And with skate rentals available at each one all you need to remember to do is to bundle up!

Washington Harbour Ice Rink - Until March 1st

             Located along Georgetown’s waterfront, this is one of the larger rinks in the city. With scenic views of Rosslyn (and air traffic arriving or departing from DCA), as well as a plethora of shopping and dining options, this spot is ideal for those looking to do a bit of everything without having to wander across the whole city.

https://thewashingtonharbour.com/ice-skating/

Canal Park Ice Rink - Until March 2nd

             Daring to defy the convention that all ice rinks should be even ovals, the Canal Park Ice Rink in Washington’s Navy Yard resembles a race course rather than an ice rink. This location has the usual services associated with rinks available, however unlike the others in the city, it also offers private lessons, so it’s a good spot to go in order to sharpen your skills on skates.

https://skatecanalpark.com/

Take on the twists and turns in this rink in Washington's Navy Yard.

The Wharf Ice Rink - Until February 22nd

             Located right on the water’s edge on the Potomac right across from The Anthem, this rink is nestled amongst the many restaurants of DC’s Wharf which makes it a fantastic choice for a post-dinner or pre-concert activity. Another major benefit is that the smores firepit is located only about 150 feet away, providing a great way to warm up any chilly fingers or toes after being on the ice.

https://www.wharfdc.com/wharf-ice-rink/

Sculpture Garden Ice Rink - Until March 1st

             The crown jewel of DC’s seasonal ice rinks (in the opinion of this writer), this small, but beautiful rink sits in the basin of the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden’s fountain. Greenery, sculptures and lights make for a uniquely scenic locale to slip and slide the afternoon or evening away. And afterwards the Pavilion Cafe located right next to the rink offers a wide variety of snacks, food and drinks to satisfy any cravings you’ve built up on the ice.

https://www.nga.gov/sculpture-garden-ice-rink

View art AND skate at the same time.

National Building Museum Winter Skate Spectacular - Until February 8th

             If you’d prefer to dance on the ice without braving the cold, then the National Building Museum might be the best option for you. Located right across from the Judiciary Square metro station and two blocks from Gallery Place, the museum hosts an indoor ‘glice’ rink until February 8th, so no jackets or gloves required. And while it may be indoors, the interior lobby of the National Building Museum is one of the most beautiful spaces in Washington DC so you won’t be wanting for scenery. And with vendors located right by the rink, you won’t even need to forgo a cup of hot chocolate afterwards either. This rink has a shorter season than the others in the District, so make sure to head there while you can!

https://nbm.org/skate-spectacular/

It may not be real ice, but you can't beat the architecture and exhibits.