Discover The 6 Largest Ice-Skating Rinks In West Virginia This Winter

Winters in West Virginia bring freezing temperatures and plenty of snow, especially in the state’s mountainous central and northeast regions. Winter weather also brings abundant outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding to snowmobiling and snowshoeing. But the cold weather is also the perfect excuse to enjoy a skating rink with family and friends. What’s better than spending the day skating around the ice and taking hot chocolate breaks?

While West Virginia may not be teeming with ice-skating rinks, the state has several options for winter family fun. Check out the six largest ice-skating rinks in West Virginia to visit this winter and learn about their amenities and other activities.

1. Greenbrier Ice Skating Rink

The Greenbrier is a 5-star resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, sitting on 11,000 acres and surrounded by woods. This impressive landmark resort dates back to 1778 and features everything from traditional rooms to seven-bedroom deluxe suites. Guests can enjoy golfing across five separate courses, bowling, horseback riding, trying dozens of restaurants, relaxing at the spa, and skating on the largest rink in West Virginia.

Thankfully, you don’t have to be a guest at this posh resort to check out the enormous 10,000-square-foot ice-skating rink. Visitors can enjoy two-hour sessions, bring their own skates, and even take advantage of the resort’s skating trainers. During the holidays, this rink lights up with Christmas decor, music, and a fire pit. Don’t forget to stop by the front lawn of the resort and witness the massive Christmas tree!

This outdoor rink is seasonal and typically opens in November, depending on weather conditions. Registered guests to The Greenbrier can skate for $34 in two-hour sessions, while non-guests must spend $55 for two hours. You will find the ice-skating rink on the Rhododendron Patio, just outside the famous indoor pool.

2. Buckhannon Ice Rink

Located in downtown Buckhannon, this new synthetic ice rink sits near Main and Spring Streets. The rink opened in the summer of 2023 and is slated to be a fun fall and winter staple in the area. A local businessman invested in the rink to revitalize the downtown area. It is a place for people to come together and skate, play hockey, and visit nearby restaurants and bars. There is a larger section for free skating and a smaller area for children’s hockey matches. While the rink offers skate rentals, it’s recommended that visitors bring their own helmets. A winter hockey league is also in the works. Measuring 4,800 square feet, the Buckhannon Ice Rink is one of the largest private synthetic rinks in the state.

3. South Charleston Memorial Ice Arena

This South Charleston ice skating rink is a family favorite hangout spot for residents. It has the capacity to seat 500 people and provides opportunities for casual skating, lessons, and hockey games. It’s an excellent spot for children to play and learn skating fundamentals. They can also check out the bumper cars on ice or join a youth hockey league! Along with skating, visitors can enjoy an arcade, snacks, refreshments, and a cozy spot around the fire. Regular admission for public skating sessions is $6 for all ages, and you must pay extra for bumper cars.

4. Wheeling Park Memorial Skating Rink

The Wheeling Park J.B. Chambers Memorial Rink is a newly renovated ice-skating and roller-skating rink in Wheeling, West Virginia. During the winter, the space transforms from a pickle ball court and roller rink into an ice-skating rink. Public skate hours are during mid-afternoons, including evenings on the weekends. Along with open skating sessions, visitors can take advantage of skating lessons and pick-up hockey.

5. Morgantown Ice Arena

The Morgantown Ice Arena is a multi-purpose arena capable of seating 400 people. This large ice-skating rink is the perfect place for families or anyone who enjoys winter weather activities. Along with public skating sessions, visitors can participate in freestyle figure skating, totsicle classes, and pick-up hockey.

6. Canaan Valley Resort Skate Park

This impressive resort is in Tucker County, West Virginia, where it provides guests with championship golfing, swimming, skiing, and ice skating. The Canaan Valley Resort provides a covered outdoor ice rink with beautiful valley and mountain views. Two-hour sessions are between $5 and $7, and guests can warm up near the outdoor fireplace.

A Summary of the 6 Largest Ice Skating Rinks in West Virginia This Winter

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