There’s no debating that world-class skiing terrain is the jewel in the crown of Vail, but don’t overlook all the other wonderful outdoor activities available at the resort. Ice skating in Vail during winter means choosing between two outdoor rinks in town, looping around the ice under twinkling lights, and taking in glorious mountain scenery. These picturesque rink locations transform a simple skating session into a memorable mountain experience, combining recreation with the charm of alpine village atmosphere.
Whether you skate in Lionshead Village or Vail Village, the snow-dusted architecture creates a picturesque winter wonderland backdrop for family-friendly skating fun. And off-season visitors don’t have to miss out—there’s also a year-round indoor arena in the heart of Vail. Together, these three rinks cover every version of ice skating in Vail.
Ice Skating Options: What You Need to Know
Ice skating in Vail is possible year-round, with a few seasonal differences. The two outdoor rinks—Alderhof Ice Rink and Solaris Plaza Ice Rink—operate during the winter season. Both are open to all ages and skill levels, offer skate rentals, and typically open around Thanksgiving and close at the end of ski season.
Dobson Ice Arena, run by the Vail Recreation District, is open year-round and offers scheduled public skating sessions. Visitors should check the arena calendar in advance to plan around public skate times. Rentals are also available on-site.
Understanding the distinctions between outdoor seasonal rinks and the indoor year-round facility helps visitors choose the experience that best matches their vacation timing and skating preferences. The best rink for you depends on the experience you’re looking for. For a classic après-ski activity in a festive outdoor setting, the village rinks are ideal. For off-season skating or a more technical rink experience, Dobson Ice Arena is the best choice.
Alderhof Ice Rink at Lionshead Village
The outdoor rinks in both villages create festive gathering spots where families and couples can enjoy classic winter activities surrounded by mountain scenery and village amenities. Alderhof Ice Rink opens at the start of the winter season at Vail Square in the heart of Lionshead Village. Operated by The Arrabelle at Vail Square , the rink is open to the public and welcomes skaters daily in the afternoons and evenings throughout winter.
Its location makes it especially convenient for skiers, sitting just steps from the Eagle Bahn Gondola. Lionshead’s Bavarian-inspired architecture adds to the festive atmosphere, and nearby fire pits, dining, and shopping make it easy to turn skating into a full après-ski outing.
Solaris Plaza Ice Rink
The Solaris Plaza Ice Rink sits beside the Solaris resort in the heart of Vail Village and operates daily throughout winter. Sessions run mainly in the late afternoons and evenings, with earlier openings during holidays.
Tickets and skate rentals are available at the nearby Deca + Bol . The oval-shaped outdoor rink is surrounded by heaters, shops, restaurants, and nearby attractions like the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Vail Village Arts.
Dobson Ice Arena: Year-Round Indoor Skating
Dobson Ice Arena offers a different ice-skating experience altogether. One of the largest arenas in Colorado, it features a 35,000-square-foot ice surface and hosts everything from public skating to concerts, competitions, and local hockey games.
Open year-round, Dobson allows visitors to skate even when there’s no snow in town. Public skate sessions welcome all ages and abilities, with rentals available. The arena also offers toddler skate times, private lessons, and special activities like ice bumper cars, available by advance registration.
Professional Ice Skating Shows
Fans of figure skating should check the schedule for outdoor ice skating shows at Solaris and Alderhof rinks. These short, high-energy performances feature elite and champion skaters and are often set to holiday-themed music—an entertaining addition to any winter evening in Vail.
Plan Your Ice Skating Experience
Whether you're a beginner taking your first tentative glides or an experienced skater perfecting techniques, Vail's variety of skating venues ensures everyone can enjoy time on the ice. If your vision of a perfect Vail vacation includes gliding across a scenic outdoor rink or practicing skills in a full-size indoor arena, ice skating deserves a spot on your itinerary. With two outdoor rinks and one indoor option, it’s easy to find the experience that fits your visit.
