Ice Skating

Looking for frozen fun? Then ice skating, a Maine tradition, may be just the activity for you. Enjoying this winter ritual is as easy as finding a local spot, dressing warm, lacing up your skates and gliding around the ice. Outdoor ice skating venues are many and varied, with dozens of ponds and outdoor rinks to discover. Simply ask a friendly local resident or make a call to the town office and you’ll be on your way to the nearest ice.

When the conditions are right, the pond in the middle of the beautiful 52-acre Deering Oaks Park in Portland is considered by many to be one of the best ice skating spots in Maine. City crews make a special effort to keep the ice cleared and its surface well groomed for skating.

Many outfitters and sports shops rent ice skates should you need them. And if you decide to venture onto an unsupervised pond or river, be sure to check with the Maine Warden Service ahead of time for the latest report on safe ice conditions.

If you’d prefer a warmer, more organized setting then try an indoor ice rink. There are 35 indoor arenas in Maine, located from Saco to Fort Kent. Many offer public skating hours throughout the winter and often year-round, as well as skate rentals, sharpening and lessons.