Discover The 5 Best Ice-Skating Rinks in Massachusetts This Winter

Don’t let the winter blues get you down! There’s plenty of fun to be had in the cold. From figure skating to pick-up hockey, if you want to spend some quality time on the ice this winter, why not try your hand (or skates!) at one of these ice-skating rinks! It’s the perfect way to forget the gloomy Massachusetts winter.

1. The New England Sports Center

The New England Sports Center is the place to be if you enjoy winter fun. It’s actually the largest ice sports venue in North America! Visitors enjoy figure skating and hockey. The New England Sports Center boasts eight full-size rinks, one mini rink – measuring 80′ x 33′ – and one studio rink. They even have a pro shop and skate sharpening on site for those looking to hone their skills. You’ll also find restaurants with a rink side view and a video arcade for post-skating fun! If you’re interested, explore their skating leagues and event calendar.

2. The Rink at Fenway

A favorite winter tradition for Bostonians, the Rink at 401 Fenway is open daily at the following times:

MONDAY – FRIDAY
3PM – 9PM
SATURDAY
11AM – 10PM
SUNDAY
11AM – 8PM

This cool skating spot features 6,000 square feet of ice-skating rink and non-stop fun. Skaters of all ages are welcome, though the venue does request that children under 18 be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Skate rentals are available for those who don’t have their own pair. Tickets are sold at time slots in half-hour increments to help prevent a bottleneck of skaters. If you don’t have much time, this is the perfect choice as it’s requested that you don’t skate for more than one hour so that everyone has a chance to glide around unhindered by overcrowding.

Since this is a very popular ice-skating venue, it’s recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance as they can sell out quickly and quantities are limited. Skate rentals are available for $7.00 per pair. Students with valid IDs can skate for $8.00. Adult admission is $12.00 and children 12 and under are $6.00 per ticket. Note: skate rental is separate from admission tickets, so if possible, bring your skates and save a few bucks.

3. The Frog Pond

The Frog Pond is the perfect place to experience Boston since it’s right in the heart of the city. This charming venue is open daily at the following times:

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Monday: 10:00 AM – 3:45 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Keep in mind that ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing, so if you’re going later in the day, be mindful of that. Rentals are available, as are lockers if you need a place to store your belongings. There’s also on-site skate sharpening, if you bring your own pair, and skating aids are available for youngsters just learning to skate. If you’re looking for ice skating lessons, you’re in luck. This Frog Pond offers skating lessons, and the rink is closed to the public during the lessons so students can learn and practice.

4. Cyr Arena Skating Rink

Cyr Arena is one of the state’s most updated ice-skating rinks, as it recently underwent renovations. the arena is located within Forest Park and visitors should use the entrance located at 200 Trafton Road. One of the nice perks of the newly renovated rink is the addition of a warming room. You’ll also find a concession stand with treats to replenish your energy after a vigorous bout of skating. The facility’s hours are:

Friday and Saturday: 7:00 PM-8:50 PM
Sunday: 2:00 PM-3:50 PM

Cyr Arena is also one of the most affordable ice-skating rinks. Youth tickets are just $3.00, and adults are $5.00. Skate rentals are just $4.00 a pair. Unfortunately, the rink does not accept credit or debit cards so make sure to have cash on hand when you go.

5. Mullins Center Community Ice Rink

The Mullins Center is home to the University of Massachusetts Amherst athletics, but they have various public skating times for those wanting to enjoy some chilly fun. It’s the only Olympic-sized ice-skating rink in the area, and if you’re a UMass student, be sure to bring your student ID so you can take advantage of free admission!

Ticket prices for the public are as follows:

Adult Admission: $7

Children 12 and under: $5

Skates are available to rent for just $5.00 And if you are a student at one of the following nearby universities, your general admission is only $5.00 if you bring your student ID.

• Hampshire College
• Mt. Holyoke College
• Smith College
• Amherst College

The Mullins Center offers a “friendly and casual” pick-up hockey league, great for those interested in hockey. It’s open to the public for all players 14 and up. You must sign a waiver at the front desk before playing, and if you’re in the 14-17 age range, make sure to bring a parent or guardian with you. The rink requires minors to be accompanied at all times. Admission for pick-up hockey is $15 unless you’re playing goalie in which case you get in free! One last thing to note: make sure to bring your own protective equipment.

5 Best Ice-Skating Rinks for Winter in Massachusetts