Best Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Connecticut near Fairfield

Skaters of all stripes are welcome at the new Steven & Alexandra Cohen rink in Stamford. Photo by Ally Noel​

1. Steven & Alexandra Cohen Ice Skating Center — Stamford 

This outdoor ice rink spans more than 9,000 feet of ice allowing plenty of space for first timers to slip and slide, and the more experienced to glide and glide. The ice rink is open most days though February. Opening for 2022 is planned for late November/early December. 

2. Westport PAL Rink — Westport

For more than 20 years, this open-air rink nestled just a few yards from Long Island Sound has been a longstanding winter tradition in Westport. While there are some lessons and private parties, and an occasional bout of outdoor hockey, the rink is mostly dedicated for open skate time, up until 11pm. Opening for 2022 is scheduled for November 25, 2022, weather permitting.

3. Redding Community Center — Redding

Located in a parking lot, the seasonal ice rink at the Redding Community Center will be open from dawn to dusk every day, in addition to designated evening skate times. The ice rink is provided for the enjoyment of Redding residents and their guests. They will be open for this year's season in January 2023.

4. Gould Manor Park — Fairfield

When the weather turns cold, you’re sure to see a Currier & Ives scene of children skating across Gould Manor Park. 

5. Owen Fish Park — Fairfield

Another classic New England winter scene comes to life in Fairfield. The tree-lined pond is a a great place for a game of ice hockey or ice skating practice. When the temperature is right, the city Parks Department measures the ice thickness daily, and posts it on the city website. 

6. Whalen Pond — Brookfield

During the winter months, skating is available to the public, just look for the "skating" sign to make sure the ice is thick enough.

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7. Osbornedale State Park (Pickett's Pond) — Derby

One of the only state parks with a designated ice skating area, Pickett’s Pond in Osbornedale State Park offers a perfect setting for skating. When the weather allows for sufficiently thick ice (decided by park rangers), skaters can be found gliding across Pickett’s Pond. Come and warm up by the fun, stone fire pit. Bright lights illuminate the night for skating after the sun sets. 

8. Wright's Pond — Orange

A fun and beautiful place with lots of wildlife, it's also a great place to go sledding and then lace up your skates for ice skating. Wright's Pond is monitored by the city Parks and Recreation Department for ice safety. There are signs posted when it's safe to skate. 

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9. The Bushnell — Hartford 

In the heart of downtown Hartford, a frozen oasis awaits from late November through early January. Winterfest offers free skating, rentals, and even skating lessons at various times and they are back in 2022 starting in late November. Open daily from 11am to 8pm 

 
Enjoy the best of both worlds at the covered outdoor ice skating rink in Simsbury, CT! Photo courtesy of Simsbury Farms

10. Simsbury Farms — Simsbury

This rink is covered, but you will still experience the thrill of fresh air in this huge space. Skates available for rental, along with a heated changing/waiting area. Ask for a skating trainer for first timers. The rink opens November 5, 2022.

11. Winding Trails — Farmington 

When (and if) Walton Pond freezes sufficiently to at least 6 inches thick (ice depth is regularly tested), skating here is a wonderfully old-fashioned experience surrounded by snow-encrusted pines, a scenic bridge, and a rustic lodge. The plan is to open as soon as weather allows in 2022.

12. Eastbury Pond — Glastonbury

If the weather allows, this pond offers a thrilling skating adventure. It is one of the few outdoor rinks that does not offer rentals, so make sure to pack your own skates. 

13. Beaverbrook Linear Park — Wethersfield

Spring Street Pond is available for ice skating when the weather cooperates. Follow posted signs regarding ice safety conditions.

Published on November 12, 2019, updated 2022, 2023, 2024