By: Natalia Gercheva

Winter has finally hit Minnesota and the forecast temperatures have dropped significantly. This means many outdoor recreational activities have just opened like: skiing, snowboarding, sledding, tubing, and more. In this article I will be focusing on some of the outdoor and indoor open skate locations around the Twin Cities!

Charles M. Schulz-Highland Arena

This location is great because it is nearby Highland High School, so if you live in the area it is very accessible. There are actually two arenas; the north rink seats 500 while the south rink seats 100. Admission is free along with free skate rental! The open skate times are limited and inconsistent, so I recommend checking out their calendar which I have linked below.

Open Skate Schedule for Ramsey County

Roseville Oval

Personally, this has been my favorite place to go ice skating for the past few years. The ice is well kept, and there is also an indoor and outdoor area. Hockey players play in the middle of the rink, while figure skaters go counterclockwise around the outer oval. Admission is $9.00 and skate rentals are $5.00. Whenever I go here everything goes smoothly, and it’s super fun.

Roseville Oval January Calendar

Maple Grove Skate Loop

This outdoor skating loop has great hours and it also has free admission. Although, if you are renting skates it costs $7.50 per pair. Unfortunately, no hockey sticks or pucks are allowed on the loop. The scenery is super festive and beautiful.

Maple Grove Loop Skating Hours

Centennial Lakes Park

Centennial Lakes Park is a 10-acre lake that is groomed daily for ice skating. Skating is free, but skate rentals cost $10.00. Skating is open daily but it is weather permitting. The rental hours are only available sometimes. There are three main ponds that are all connected by more narrow canals. It is super fun and gives the skaters a unique experience.

Centennial Lakes Ice Skating Hours

I have already been ice skating multiple times this season, and in my experience all these places have been super fun and great places to go ice skating. All of these locations are open to all ages so it also makes a great family activity. I hope everyone gets the opportunity to go outside and at least try ice skating while the season lasts!