About Winter Fun
This article is a part of Washingtonian’s feature: Winter Fun Indoors & Out. Our editors and staff pulled together the best things to do this winter, including snowball fights, cozy places to get a drink, ice skating, and more.
Canal Park
Loop around this figure-eight-shaped rink near Nats Park and, afterward, check out the seasonal flavors at nearby Ice Cream Jubilee. 200 M St., SE; 202-850-0859.
C&O Canal
One silver lining when there’s a stretch of sub-freezing days: You can bring skates (no rentals) to this picturesque haven. To be safe, wait until the ice is at least four inches thick—which doesn’t happen often.
Constitution Gardens
Nothing shouts winter like ice-skating with the Washington Monument as a backdrop. The park service posts signs when the pond is sufficiently frozen over. You’ll need your own skates. 1850 Constitution Ave., NW.
Gardens Ice House
Along with three indoor rinks, this 150,000-square-foot facility maintains an outdoor rink in winter. 13800 Old Gunpowder Rd., Laurel; 301-953-0100.
Harris Pavilion
This covered rink boasts satellite music booming from a high-quality sound system. 9201 Center St., Manassas; 703-361-9800.
National Gallery of Art
Skate alongside sculptures by famous artists, and enjoy mulled wine or latte at the cafe. Seventh Street and Constitution Ave., NW; 202-216-9397.
Pentagon Row
The outdoor fireplace is a welcoming spot to warm up before returning to the ice. 1201 S. Joyce St., Arlington; 703-418-6666.
Reston Town Center
Twinkle lights deck out the pavilion and surrounding trees for a dose of winter cheer. 1818 Discovery St., Reston; 703-709-6300.
Rockville Town Square
Make a night of it: The rink is surrounded by restaurants and down the street from a movie theater. 131 Gibbs St., Rockville; 301-545-1999.
Veterans Plaza
Nail your ice-skating Instagram under a canopy of rainbow-colored lights on the ceiling of this rink’s pavilion. 8523 Fenton St., Silver Spring; 301-588-1221.
Washington Harbour
The harbor’s fountain converts into DC’s largest outdoor rink in the winter, with a view overlooking the Potomac River. 3050 K St., NW; 202-706-7666.
The Wharf
Worked up an appetite while skating? This waterside rink puts you in the thick of restaurants, including Hank’s Oyster Bar and Mi Vida. 960 Wharf St., SW; no phone.
A version of this article appears in the January 2019 issue of Washingtonian.
Daniella Byck joined Washingtonian in 2022. She was previously with Outside Magazine and lives in Northeast DC.
