Looking for an outdoor winter activity for the whole family? There are a number of outdoor ice skating rinks in NJ where you can take a skating lesson, play hockey, or just grab a hot chocolate and go for a spin during a public session. Of course, if you feel like staying indoors, you can always check out our list of the Best Indoor Ice Skating Rinks in NJ. And for more wintry sports, try our Ski & Snow Guide.
Please see individual websites for hours and pricing.
Northern NJ
Charlie Heger Ice Rink – Jersey City
Also known as Pershing Field, this outdoor rink is covered—so you can skate (or learn to skate) in all types of weather. Plus, it’s quiet and very affordable. The 2018 skating season will run through mid-March.
Newport Skates – Jersey City
Located in Jersey City’s waterfront community, Newport Skates is the perfect place to skate with kids. The rink is on the smaller side and pretty empty (or mostly kids) on weekday afternoons. Season passes, lessons, and group party rates are available.
Bring your own skates or rent a pair for $2 at the Secaucus Ice Skating Rink.
Secaucus Ice Skating Rink – Secaucus
You'll find this rink tucked away in the Meadowlands, in Buchmuller Park. Typically open through April, the rink offers skate rentals and party packages.
Central NJ
Mercer County Ice Skating Center – West Windsor
The Mercer County Ice Skating Center at Mercer County Park is open seven days a week through mid-March. Deemed an "open-air, sheltered skating facility," this center also features a full snack bar, fireplace and lounge area, vending machines, skate rentals, and lockers.
RELATED: Family-Friendly Skiing and Snowboarding Spots Around NJ
Roosevelt Park Family Skating Rink offers a beautiful setting for a skate session.
Roosevelt Park Family Skating Rink – Edison
Overlooking a scenic lake, this rink is open for public skating as well as lessons. Children under 7 are required to wear a helmet.
Jersey Shore
The Asbury Hotel Ice Rink – Asbury Park
The Asbury Hotel is an awesome shore getaway year-round, with a pool and ocean access in the summer and now a pop-up skating rink in the winter. Located behind the hotel, the rink is open weekends through mid-March and offers skate rentals for kids and adults.
Enjoy an ocean view while you skate at Ice at the Pier.
Ice at the Pier – Long Branch
Located on Festival Plaza at Pier Village, this 50-foot by 80-foot rink boasts an ocean view. Open through President's Day.
Southern NJ
WinterFest at Cooper River – Pennsauken
It's skating with a view along Cooper River. Open through February 19, the rink offers skating lessons, rentals, shows, and birthday party packages.
Philadelphia’s Rothman Institute Ice Rink at Dilworth Park and Blue Cross River Rink are both family-friendly options.
Top photo: Newport Skates is a smaller rink that's perfect for kids. All photos courtesy of the rinks.
Originally published December 2013. Updated January 2018.
