Ice Skating SF: 10 Top Rinks to Visit This Holiday Season (2025)

The holiday season in San Francisco brings a special kind of energy, and ice skating is one of the most engaging ways to step into it. While the city doesn’t get snow, it does roll out a collection of seasonal rinks that turn public spaces into winter-like destinations. These spots offer more than just skating—they’re social hubs with music, lights, and a relaxed vibe that fits the city’s character. Whether you’re new to the ice or a regular glider, there are options across the city and nearby areas that cater to different tastes and schedules. Here’s a look at 10 rinks worth checking out this 2025 season, with practical details to help plan your visit.

Ice Skating San Francisco: 10 Top Rinks to Visit This Holiday Season (2025)

The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink at Union Square

This is the city’s most visible winter attraction, set in the middle of downtown’s main plaza. It’s surrounded by holiday displays, shopping, and restaurants, making it a natural stop during a day out. The rink operates as part of a larger winter village, with themed events that reflect local culture.

• Location: Union Square Plaza, 333 Post Street, San Francisco​
• Dates: November 5, 2025 – January 19, 2026​
• Hours: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m., sessions every 90 minutes​
• Admission: $22 (adults), $17 (kids 8 and under), includes skate rental​
• Website: unionsquareicerink.com​

Yerba Buena Ice Skating & Bowling Center

A full-service indoor facility that stays open all year, this rink is a reliable option no matter the weather. It has an NHL-sized ice surface and offers public skating, lessons, and private events. The attached bowling alley and café make it a solid choice for a full afternoon.

• Location: 750 Folsom Street, San Francisco​
• Open: Year-round, holiday hours vary​
• Hours: Check schedule; open noon to 5 p.m. on Christmas​
• Admission: $12 (adults), $10 (youth/seniors), $7 (tots), $4 skate rental​
• Website: skatebowl.com​

Thrive City Winter Wonderland at Chase Center

Located in the Mission Bay neighborhood, this rink uses synthetic ice, so it’s not real ice but still provides a smooth skating experience. It’s free to use, with a suggested donation for skate rentals, and is geared toward families and casual visitors.

• Location: 1 Warriors Way, San Francisco​
• Season: Select December dates​
• Hours: 30-minute sessions, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.​
• Admission: Free, $5 suggested donation for skate rental​
• Website: chasecenter.com/events​

Winter Lodge in Palo Alto

One of the oldest outdoor rinks in the region, this spot has a classic feel with a heated lounge, fire pits, and seasonal decor. It’s a favorite for evening skating and group events, offering a quieter alternative to the city’s busier rinks.

• Location: 3009 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto​
• Season: Late September to mid-April​
• Hours: Daily, varies by time of year​
• Admission: $16 general, $5 skate rental​
• Website: winterlodge.com​

San Mateo On Ice

This is the largest outdoor rink in the Bay Area, covering 11,000 square feet of real ice. It’s set in Central Park and includes a lounge area called Off the Ice, where non-skaters can grab food and drinks.

• Location: Central Park, San Mateo​
• Season: November to January​
• Hours: Daily, check website for updates​
• Admission: $18–$21, includes skate rental​
• Website: onicerinks.com​

Union Market Ice Rink in Oakland

Set in the Uptown district, this rink is part of a food and drink-focused holiday market. It features local DJs, themed nights, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a good pick for East Bay visitors.

• Location: 2000 Broadway, Oakland​
• Season: Holiday season only​
• Hours: Weekend and holiday peak times​
• Admission: ~$22, includes rental​
• Website: oaklandice.com​

Crabbe Mountain Ice Rink

A smaller, family-run rink in the East Bay hills, offering a rustic setting with a cozy lodge. It’s open on weekends during the winter and is known for its friendly vibe and lower prices.

• Location: Near Oakland, exact address varies​
• Season: Weekends only, December to January​
• Hours: Limited, check in advance​
• Admission: Lower than city rinks​
• Website: https://www.crabbemountain.com/​

The Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Rink

This seasonal outdoor rink is named for Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi and stands out for its larger ice surface and festive extras. Rink-side fire pits and themed nights such as Grinch Night and Ugly Sweater Night add to the fun, and you might even see Kristi herself making an appearance.

• Location: 6000 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, CA
• Season: November 8, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Hours: Vary, check website for daily schedule
• Features: Themed events, fire pits, special appearances
• Admission: Check rink for ticket pricing and promotions
• Reservations: Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Rink

Walnut Creek on Ice

Now in its 19th season, Walnut Creek on Ice is a go-to for locals and visitors looking for skating and a bit more. In addition to the open ice, the new ice slide and rinkside fire pit rentals give families and groups extra options for a complete winter outing.

• Location: 1365 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, CA
• Season: November 22, 2024 – January 12, 2025
• Hours: Daily, with updates on themed events and lessons
• Features: Ice slide, lessons for all ages, fire pit rentals for groups
• Admission: Fees vary by session and package; check the rink’s site
• Website: https://walnutcreekonice.com/

The Peninsula Ice Arena

An indoor facility in San Carlos that offers year-round skating, lessons, and open skate times. It’s a solid option for those who want consistent ice conditions and structured programming.

• Location: 1001 Veterans Blvd, San Carlos​
• Open: Year-round​
• Hours: Varies, holiday hours posted in December​
• Website: peninsulaskatingclub.org​

Skating during the holidays in San Francisco is less about tradition and more about creating moments—whether that’s a first-time glide, a family outing, or a casual hang with friends. The mix of real and synthetic rinks, indoor and outdoor spaces, and city versus suburban locations means there’s a fit for every kind of visit. Some rinks are already open, while others launch in November, so checking dates and booking ahead can save time. With a little planning, a skate session can be one of the most relaxed and enjoyable parts of the season.

More…

• https://secretsanfrancisco.com/ice-skating-rinks/
• https://unionsquareicerink.com/
• https://www.marinmommies.com/calendar/yerba-buena-ice-skating
• https://www.overheresf.com/kids-activities-san-francisco-20-indoor-winter-break-ideas/