Winter Family Activity: Ice Skating in Los Angeles

Downtown on Ice

The tradition continues celebrating its 13th season with holiday fun under the sun and stars DOWNTOWN ON ICE. La’s largest outdoor skating rink at the picturesque Pershing Square framed by towering skyscrapers and stunning historical landmarks.

When: November 18, 2010 – January 17, 2011

Where: Pershing Square, 532 South Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Hours: www.laparks.org

Cost: Rates are $6.00 for 1 hour skate session, plus $2 skate rental.

Parking: Discounted underground parking is available under the park with validation.

W Hotel’s “Chill”

Bundle up and take a spin on “CHILL”, The W Hotel in Westwood pool deck has been transformed into a winter playground featuring a hybrid ice skating rink called “CHILL”. For the 2nd year in a row, join in as they bring the magic of the holidays to life. Surprises are in store including lessons and performances every Saturday by BH Skating Park’s Cabaret Ice Theater and Gingerbread house decorating. The Curveball: I mentioned the “ice,” but the rink is actually made of so-called “hybrid ice,” a synthetic material approximating a high-tech plastic. Sort of a bummer, given that one of the joys of ice skating is the brisk temperatures that necessitate a chunky sweater. But at least the skates are real, and the rink doesn’t require power for refrigeration, so you’re doing our Southern California environment a favor.

When: November 19, 2010 – January 24, 2011.

Where: W Hotel 930 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles.

Hours: 3:00 p.m.to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Cost: $10 per hour. (The rental skates are included)

Parking: Parking in Westwood is tricky—but we’re not telling you anything you don’t already know. To save a little cash, hunt for a two-hour meter, many of which are free after either 6 or 8 p.m. There are additional public lots a block south of the hotel, too. Otherwise, you’re stuck with hotel valet, which runs $10 for the first hour and $4 for each hour after that.

Santa Monica’s “ICE”

ICE at Santa Monica, Downtown Santa Monica’s premiere outdoor skating rink, returns for its third year as a part of Winterlit. Thousands of sparkling lights set the stage for festive cheer that will last throughout the holiday season. ICE at Santa Monica boasts 8000-square-feet of real ice and this year, brings the addition of a 400-square-foot for children aged six and under. ICE is the perfect choice for a family outing or memorable night out. Also both arenas offer skating lessons, season passes and special event options for birthday or holiday parties.

When: October 30, 2009 –  January 18, 2010.

Where: Located less than two blocks from the Third Street Promenade at Arizona and 5th Street in the heart of Santa Monica

Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and to midnight on Friday and Saturday. Including Halloween, Christmas Day and New Years Day.

Cost: $10 admission (Includes Skates)

Parking: Public Parking Structure or Street Meters