Photo: Worcester Common Oval Ice Skating
By Phyllis M. Cahaly, CMD, Director of Partnership Marketing, Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism
Each change of season in Massachusetts offer unique opportunities we love. Whether it’s winter, spring, summer, or fall, and no matter the weather, we have something special ready for you to do, distinct places for you to explore, and new and exciting activities. Whether it’s your first time or if you’re revisiting a favorite tradition, there is nothing like the unparalleled experience of outdoor ice skating.
First a tip – the key to enjoying outdoor ice skating is to layer up. Don’t forget your hat, gloves and scarf, and be sure to wear warm socks! These provisions will help you overcome any trepidations you may have about being outdoors in chilly weather because once you are on the ice, it’s all about skating and the environment. You will welcome the cool breeze on your face as you are sliding and gliding around the rink, taking in the outdoor beauty of Massachusetts. You will soon be focusing in on the sounds of your blades against the ice, the scent of pine trees, and the beauty of the natural outdoor setting.
You’ll find a wide array of enhancements at these rinks that range from seasonal music, hot chocolate stands, and even rental skates for those that don’t bring their own.
We highly recommend that you check the website for each rink in advance to double-check admission details and hours of operation since nature rules their schedules.
Now, bundle up and head out to enjoy a beautiful outdoor activity, and while it may be cold out there, the season is fleeting, so don’t miss it! Here are a few outdoor rinks to get you started . . . ready, set, now push off!
Greater Boston
The Boston Common Frog Pond, located in the heart of Boston, really shines when it comes to outdoor skating. It’s the place to be for family-friendly outdoor fun and offers ice skating seven days a week as well as lessons, rentals, and events like IceFlow Yoga on Ice. Don’t miss the two Frog Pond Skating Spectacular shows at First Night on December 31. The Frog Pond, located inside the Boston Common, established in 1634, and is the oldest public park in the United States. The Frog Pond is managed by The Skating Club of Boston.
The Kelly Outdoor Rink is an open-air public skating arena owned by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. It’s located in a family-oriented community in Jamaica Plain, one of Boston’s 23 diverse neighborhoods. It has a lively atmosphere and is situated behind Stony Brook MBTA on the orange line station on Marbury Terrance. The Friends of the Kelly Rink provide affordable ice skate rentals and skating lessons.
Winter Skate at Patriot Place, Foxborough is the ideal spot for a large group. Located in Lot 12B of South Marketplace within the popular Patriot Place complex at Gillette Stadium. There’s an exciting, freshly designed skate path and the complex offers dining, hotel services, and shopping galore.
North of Boston
The SBLI Rink at MarketStreet, Lynnfield is back for its twelfth season of winter fun and is open daily. The rink is nestled inside of this outdoor shopping center filled with more than 90 shops, dining spots and community events.
South of Boston
At Lily Pond, sometimes referred to as Ellms Meadow, you’ll enjoy the natural beauty synonymous with Cohasset, a cozy, scenic town south of Boston. The Town of Cohasset Recreation Department opens this snuggly pond when the weather conditions allow.
Cape Cod & The Islands
The Brewster Community Ice Rink is located in the town of Brewster on Cape Cod. It’s home of the Jack Frost Invitational, events throughout the season, and their popular Holiday Cheer & Gear which offers two introductory skating packages, hockey and figure skating.
Central Massachusetts
In the heart of Massachusetts, you’ll find Worcester Common Oval Ice Skating located directly behind Worcester City Hall. This 12,000 square foot rink, (4,000 square feet larger than the Rink at Rockefeller Center) is professionally managed by ASM Global, the DCU Center’s management team. All your outdoor ice-skating amenities like music, rentals, concessions, and holiday lights make this a great downtown experience.
Western Massachusetts
The serenity of The Berkshires is captured in the town of Monterey at the Monterey Outdoor Skating Rink. Since this is a semi-enclosed pavilion, it allows for greater outdoor skating opportunities when the weather is inclement. The rink is managed by the town’s Fire Department, and the Monterey community plays an active role. The rink offers a small storage area and a collection of skates in various sizes that can be used for free.
