At-A-Glance

Season:

Winter

Months:

Nov - April

Vail Ice Skating

Winter transforms the Vail Valley into a snow-blanketed wonderland, and ice skating here is like stepping into a scene from a storybook. The ice rinks in Vail are surrounded by colorful art galleries, only-in-Vail boutiques, cozy cafes and restaurants and warm fire pits. At the end of a long day exploring everything our villages have to offer, take some time to bundle up and float across the ice.

ARRABELLE SQUARE ICE RINK

As the sun sets and twinkling lights come to life in Lionshead Village, the Alderhof Ice Rink transforms into a magical space. Surrounded by the Bavarian-style architecture of the village, this ice rink at Arrabelle at Vail Square is one of the best spots to head for a post-dinner skating session (and holiday-card worthy photo op!). Skate rentals are available in all sizes as well as skating-assist devices, so you and the kiddos can easily snag a pair and start sliding.

Locals’ Tip: Consider checking in to The Arrabelle at Vail Square in Lionshead for a luxurious overnight stay.

SOLARIS PLAZA SKATING

Set against the charming backdrop of Vail Village, the Solaris Ice Rink invites visitors to gracefully glide on the ice, surrounded by the peaks of Vail’s iconic ski mountain. Mix up your group’s après-ski vibes and head here after a day carving down the slopes. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or stepping onto the ice for the first time, the Solaris Ice Rink is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening perfecting your turns and laughing with friends.

Locals’ Tip: Once you finish up ice skating, cross Gore Creek at the International Bridge and stop in the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for some deliciously decadent hot cocoa.

INDOOR SKATING AT DOBSON

Dobson Ice Arena in Lionshead Village offers fun-filled, year-round indoor ice-skating experiences. Covering an impressive 35,000 square feet, the family-friendly spot stands as one of the largest multi-purpose ice facilities from Vail to the Western Slope. Perfect for both seasoned skaters and wobbly beginners, Dobson Ice Arena provides public skating sessions and even private lessons. The well-maintained rink creates an inviting atmosphere for individuals of all ages to enjoy the thrill of sweeping across the ice.

Locals’ Tip: For a fun alternative to skating, try out Dobson Ice Arena’s ice bumper cars, which allow you to sit down and safely slide, turn and bump across the ice in a tiny vehicle.