Chill Out in Arizona: Best Ice Skating Spots
When you think of Arizona in the winter, you don’t exactly imagine an environment suitable for ice skating. Despite not having wintery conditions like the Midwest or our friendly neighbors up north, we Arizonans have figured out a way to beat the system. With indoor ice rink facilities constructed across the state, you can still step inside a wintery wonderland in the desert. So, it’s time to lace up the skates and show off your skills in the Grand Canyon State’s best ice skating rinks.
Ice Den, Scottsdale, AZ
The Ice Den in Scottsdale is the official practice facility for the Arizona Coyotes. USA Today has repeatedly ranked this skating facility as one of the top 10 in the country—and it's easy to see why. This 150,000-square-foot facility is home to the largest adult and youth hockey programs in Arizona. It also has one of the largest “Learn to Skate” programs in the country.
AZ Ice Arcadia, Phoenix, AZ
This ice skating rink hosts hockey leagues, figure skating sessions and “Learn to Skate” programs. Through Little Howlers Hockey, AZ Ice Arcadia offers free on-ice youth hockey programs for kids ages 4-8. Public skating is available in the mornings, midday, and evenings. It's also home to the Ice House Tavern—a hockey bar with a full view of the ice rink. The bar has live music, an impressive beer selection, and TVs featuring NHL & NFL packages.
Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, Mesa, AZ
Feel the arctic blast of winter without leaving your hometown. Visit the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink at Mesa City Center's Plaza. Become one with the ice as you skate for hours. All are welcome to try out their skating capabilities.
Findlay Toyota Center, Prescott Valley, AZ
Skate into the frosty fantasy of the Findlay Toyota Center Community Ice Skating - for every age and degree of mastery. Glide around the ice with rentals available from toddler size 9 to men's 15. For the littlest skaters, walkers are available to assist them as they learn the proper techniques. Don't forget to bring protective gear - helmets and elbow pads are recommended but not required, with helmets available upon request. No hockey sticks or pucks are allowed.
Jay Lively Activity Center, Flagstaff, AZ
"The Jay" is the only ice rink in Flagstaff. Many locals come to the rink to cheer on the NAU Ice Jacks throughout their season. The premises were rebuilt several years ago after a roof collapse thanks to funding through public donations. They offer public skate sessions, open hockey, adult only skate and a private party room.
Desert Ice Skating Rink, Scottsdale, AZ
The Desert Ice Skating Rink is a 6,000 square-foot destination where skaters can take part in a holiday tradition. Hosted by the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, this outdoor skating rink pops up every winter and offers a unique skating experience. Cacti, palm trees, and other desert staples surround the rink. The setting and Scottsdale landscape makes this rink a rare and beautiful find.
Skate Westgate, Glendale, AZ
Skate Westgate is an annual outdoors ice rink located on the west side of the Valley. Westgate Entertainment District is home to various shops and restaurants and is adjacent to the Arizona Coyotes and Arizona Cardinals home stadiums. Each winter, it transforms into a spectacle with decorations and holiday lights put on display. All skill levels are welcome to join in the open skating sessions.
AZ Ice Peoria, Peoria, AZ
Peoria's AZ Ice location is a family-friendly establishment that hosts private parties, events, and birthday parties. In addition to the Little Howlers program, this rink has free skating lessons every Saturday morning and Wednesday evening. Public skating is available every morning and afternoon and they also hold 60-minute freestyle sessions for figure skaters.
AZ Ice Gilbert, Gilbert, AZ
Many beginners flock to AZ Ice in Gilbert in hopes to improve their skating. They have “Learn to Skate” classes with adult and teen curriculum and U.S. Figure Skating Basic Skills Program. The rink has programs for adult and youth hockey leagues as well as pick up hockey games. For the casual skater, open skating is available twice per day.
Ice Den, Chandler, AZ
The Ice Den expanded in 2014 by acquiring Polar Ice and rebranding as the Ice Den Chandler. This location has two skating rinks and two-hour public skating sessions run frequently. There are also programs for hockey players and figure skaters, as well as a pro shop with skating equipment and apparel.
CitySkate, Phoenix, AZ
Yes, Phoenix has outdoor skating rinks. Every year during the holidays, downtown CityScape transforms by adding CitySkate—an outdoor holiday ice rink. The ice rink surrounds a 36-foot-tall Christmas tree in the middle of a downtown development. Skating sessions are 90 minutes in duration. Santa makes frequent appearances for a perfect photo opportunity for the family.
Key Insights at a Glance
