When the temperatures start to drop, plenty of people head outside to enjoy the winter recreation opportunities Albany has to offer. One of these popular activities is ice skating. Whether you’ve been skating for years or you’re just getting started, check out a few of these best ice skating rinks in Albany.
- Empire State Plaza
One of the most popular places in the area to skate is at Empire State Plaza. Starting on Dec. 1, 2017, skaters can enjoy gliding around the outdoor rink under the shadow of the Capitol. The rink stays open until Mar. 11, 2018, and it offers several events throughout the year, such as learn-to-skate clinics and free hockey lessons. If you don’t own your own skates, you can rent a pair at the rink. Fridays are also free skate rental days.
- Washington Park Lake
Another great place to go ice skating outdoors is at Washington Park Lake in Washington Park. The city monitors the ice thickness of the lake and clears a portion of it for ice skating when the ice gets 7 inches or thicker. The park doesn’t offer skate rentals, so you’ll have to bring your own to enjoy skating here. Additionally, while there are lights at the park, skating is only permitted until sundown.
- Albany County Hockey Facility
If you prefer skating indoors, head to the Albany County Hockey Facility. Along with youth and adult hockey games and figure skating, the facility is also open for public skating 10 months out of the year. If you’re looking for some of the latest skating gear, stop by the Hockey Store N More Pro Shop. There’s also a skate rental if you don’t have your own skates. When you get hungry, the Center Ice Café concession stand serves snacks and drinks.
- Swinburne Ice Rink
The rink at Swinburne Ice Rink has a pavilion covering it, so you can enjoy open-air skating and protection from the elements at the same time. The ice rink is open seven days a week from December through March. You’ll enjoy free skating and hockey lessons for children ages five through nine on Sundays, and skate rentals are available for those who don’t have their own. You can also take advantage of the open hockey hours and open stick and puck practice. Additionally, there’s free parking available next door at Bleecker Stadium.
- Buckingham Pond
Another lake you can ice skate on in Albany is Buckingham Pond at Buckingham Lake Park. The city will periodically check the ice for safety, so as long as you don’t see a sign prohibiting skating, you’re welcome to hit the ice for a game of hockey or practicing your figure eights. There are only a few lights at the park, so skating after dark isn’t recommended.
Whether you’re into hockey or figure skating, you’ll enjoy some fun time on the ice this winter when you check out these top spots around Albany for ice skating.
