Traverse City Ice Skating

If you haven’t been ice skating in Traverse City, have you even been to Northern Michigan? We think not. Pack your skates (or rent them) and head to one of our renowned rinks. Options abound for leisure skaters and hockey players alike!

Outdoor Ice Rinks Near Traverse City

Ice skating outdoors in Northern Michigan is as good as it gets. For those who won’t let a blizzard slow them down, Traverse City offers a variety of outdoor ice rinks. Dress for winter weather, and wear a helmet!

F&m Park Rink

Free to use, close to downtown and generally open from January to March, the rink at F&M Park is city-run. F&M Park is located on State St. near Railroad Ave. Lights turn off at 9 p.m. nightly!

14th Street Rink

Offering a warming house for the easily chilled, Traverse City’s 14th Street Rink is located near Thirlby Field at W 14th St. and Pine St. A local favorite, this city-maintained rink is also free of charge (a “cheap skate,” if you will).

Crystal Mountain Rink

Think Crystal Mountain is all about skiing? Think again. 50 minutes from downtown, Crystal Mountain Resort boasts a family-friendly outdoor rink in Barr Park, in the heart of Crystal Village. Offering $5 visitor passes, Crystal Mountain also rents skates at $12 an hour, and encourages you to complete an Activity Waiver in advance!

Indoor Ice Rinks

If skating outside in subzero temperatures isn’t your cup of tea, Traverse City boasts several indoor ice rinks that welcome all ages and skill levels!

Centre Ice Arena

Centre Ice Arena, located on Chartwell Drive off of Hammond Road, is the Cherry Capital’s preeminent indoor rink complex. Comprising two rinks, Centre Ice has previously hosted the Detroit Red Wings Training Camp and the NHL Prospect Tournament. It’s also home to the Grand Traverse Hockey Association and the Traverse City Figure Skating Club. Open year-round, Centre Ice also holds adult and high school hockey games, skating classes and rentals, and a plethora of public skating programs.   

Howe Ice Arena

Howe Ice Arena, at the Grand Traverse County Civic Center, offers numerous public skating options, from open skating hours to Sticks & Pucks and Twilight Skate sessions. Howe also hosts adult hockey leagues and learn-to-skate classes. Just pick your program and head to the Howe!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I rent skates in Traverse City? 

A: Ice skates are available for rent at Howe Ice Arena, Centre Ice Arena and Crystal Mountain’s ice rink.

Q: Are there outdoor rinks open all winter? 

Yes! Skate all winter long, conditions permitting, at each of Traverse City’s outdoor rinks.

Q: Which rink is best for beginners? 

Both Centre Ice Arena and Howe Ice Arena offer groomed ice and public skate programs perfect for beginners.

Q: Can I watch hockey games at Centre Ice Arena? 

Yes! Centre Ice Arena is home to the Detroit Red Wings training camp and has previously hosted the NHL Prospect Tournament. It also hosts high school games and adult leagues!

With rinks for every age and every skill set in and around Traverse City, what are you waiting for? Pick your rink, lace up your skates and enjoy a day on the ice.