The Definitive Guide to Ice Skating Around North Atlanta

The holidays may be behind us, but winter is still a great excuse to get outside, spend time together, and enjoy some of the simple traditions that make this time of year special.

One of my favorites? Ice skating.

A group of North Atlanta ice skaters hit the rink at Park Tavern in Atlanta.

After raising a family and building a life here in North Atlanta, I’ve learned that you don’t need a big vacation to make winter memorable. Sometimes, all it takes is a pair of skates, a warm drink afterward, and a few hours with the people you love.

And we’re lucky to have plenty of options close to home—from outdoor rinks surrounded by city lights to covered rinks and winter destinations that make for an easy day trip.

Here are a few of my favorites for this winter.

Skate Close to Home

Skate the Station at Atlantic Station — Atlanta

Skate in the heart of Atlantic Station with the Atlanta skyline as your backdrop. It’s a fun option if you want to combine skating with shopping or dinner.

Avalon on Ice — Alpharetta

The Rockefeller-inspired outdoor rink at Avalon has become a North Atlanta winter tradition. Skate, grab a hot chocolate, and enjoy everything Avalon has to offer while you’re there.

Skate City Springs — Sandy Springs

An outdoor rink right in City Springs, making it easy to turn an afternoon of skating into dinner or a stroll through the area. Reservations are recommended.

Rink on the River at The Mill on Etowah — Canton

This covered rink along the Etowah River is especially charming in the evening, when the lights come on. Pair skating with dinner, shopping, or a walk around The Mill for a full afternoon or evening out.

The Rink at Park Tavern — Atlanta

Located next to Piedmont Park, this rink combines skating with a heated tent and rink-side dining. It’s a particularly fun choice if you want a little more of a date-night feel.

License to Chill Snow Island at Margaritaville —

Lake LanierThis is more than just ice skating. Add snow tubing, amusement rides, and other winter activities for a full day of family fun.

The Ice Rink at Sugar Hill —

Sugar HillA large, fully covered rink that’s a good option when you want the skating experience without worrying quite as much about the weather.

Worth the Drive

Sometimes the best winter memories require a little road trip.

Blue Ridge on Ice — Blue Ridge

If you’re looking for a winter day trip, head north to the mountains. This covered rink at the Blue Ridge Farmers Market puts you within easy reach of the town’s shops, restaurants, and mountain scenery. My advice: make a day of it rather than turning around after the skating session. Blue Ridge is at its best when you slow down and explore.

UC Ice on Main — Greenville, South Carolina

If you’re up for a weekend getaway, Greenville makes a great combination of skating and small-city exploring. Skate downtown, walk along the Reedy River, and stay for dinner. It’s an easy way to turn a simple winter activity into a mini getaway.

Prefer to Skate Year-Round?

If your family gets hooked on skating—or you simply prefer to avoid the seasonal crowds—North Atlanta has several year-round options:

• The Cooler, Alpharetta Family Skate Center

• Center Ice Arena — Sandy Springs

• IceForum — Duluth

• The ICE — Cumming

• Atlanta Ice House — Marietta

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A Few Tips Before You Go

Reserve ahead. 

Seasonal rinks can get busy, particularly on weekends and school holidays. Check availability and book online when possible.

Dress in layers. 

Outdoor and covered rinks can feel very different depending on the temperature and wind. Gloves are a must, especially for little skaters.

Make a day of it. 

One of the things I love about living in North Atlanta is how easy it is to pair an activity with a great meal, local shopping, or a walk through a nearby downtown. Skating at The Mill on Etowah? Stay for dinner. Heading to Avalon? Plan time to explore. Going to Blue Ridge? Leave plenty of time for the town.

That’s one of the things that makes North Atlanta such a fun place to live. You can have a completely different experience without going very far from home.

Whether you’re teaching a little one to skate, enjoying a date night, or just looking for something different to do with the family, I hope you find a rink that becomes part of your winter tradition.

Grab your gloves, bundle up, and enjoy the season!

And if you’re new to North Atlanta and want to discover more of the places, neighborhoods, restaurants, parks, and local traditions that make this area special, I’m always happy to share a few of my favorites.

I’ve learned that sometimes the best way to understand a community is simply to get out and enjoy it.