Moscow, with its rich history, magnificent architecture, and snowy winters, transforms into a winter wonderland when the temperature drops. Ice skating in Moscow is one of the best ways to experience the magic of the city during the colder months. Whether you’re gliding across an iconic rink near a famous landmark or enjoying a more tranquil experience surrounded by nature, Moscow offers a wide range of ice skating venues that suit all tastes. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ice skating spots in Moscow, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a classic winter experience.
1. Gorky Park Ice Skating Rink
Gorky Park is one of Moscow’s most beloved parks, known for its wide variety of recreational activities. In winter, the park’s ice skating rink becomes a focal point for both locals and tourists alike. It offers one of the most popular places for skating in the city, with an excellent atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
Why It’s Special:
- Central Location: Gorky Park is located right in the heart of Moscow, making it easily accessible for both tourists and residents. It’s an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy a winter activity close to some of the city’s top attractions.
- Modern Facilities: The rink is large and well-maintained, with rentals available for skates and equipment. There are also heated changing rooms and cafes where you can warm up after skating.
- Beautiful Scenery: Skating here provides views of the park’s snow-covered trees, sculptures, and iconic Moscow skyline, making it a scenic location for skating.
Best Time to Visit:
- The rink is open from mid-November to March, with the best conditions in December through February when the snow adds to the winter charm.
2. VDNKh Ice Skating Rink
The VDNKh (Vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva) is one of Moscow’s most famous exhibition centers, and in the winter, it turns into a magical ice skating destination. The VDNKh Ice Skating Rink is set against a stunning backdrop of Soviet-era architecture, making it one of the most picturesque skating venues in Moscow.
Why It’s Special:
- Iconic Setting: The rink is located in front of the Fountain of Friendship and near the iconic space pavilion, which gives it a unique historical charm.
- Large Rink: The rink itself is massive, offering plenty of space for both casual skaters and those looking to perfect their moves.
- Winter Wonderland: VDNKh is transformed into a winter wonderland during the colder months, with holiday lights, markets, and festive decorations, creating a magical skating atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit:
- The rink is open from late November to March, with the holidays (December through January) being the most festive time, as the park is beautifully decorated for the season.
3. Red Square Ice Skating Rink
For those looking to skate at one of the most iconic spots in the world, the Red Square Ice Skating Rink is a must-visit. Located in front of the historic Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral, this rink offers the ultimate winter experience in Moscow.
Why It’s Special:
- Iconic Views: Skating on Red Square offers unparalleled views of Moscow’s most famous landmarks, making it a bucket-list experience. The historic architecture, including the Spasskaya Tower and the Lenin Mausoleum, provides a magical winter backdrop.
- Festive Atmosphere: During the winter, Red Square is decorated with festive lights and holiday markets, creating a cozy and vibrant atmosphere that makes skating here truly special.
- Historical Location: Ice skating in such a historic location adds a unique cultural element to the experience.
Best Time to Visit:
- December to February offers the most festive conditions, with the rink open from late November to mid-February.
4. Patriarch’s Ponds Ice Skating Rink
For a more peaceful and intimate ice skating experience, head to Patriarch’s Ponds in Moscow’s central Presnensky District. Known for its charm and serene atmosphere, this rink offers a more tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city’s bigger venues.
Why It’s Special:
- Quaint Atmosphere: Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the city’s most picturesque areas, offering a quiet, cozy atmosphere perfect for skating under the trees, surrounded by beautiful 19th-century architecture.
- Romantic Setting: If you’re looking for a romantic ice skating experience, this is the perfect venue. The serene ambiance and the charming surroundings make it a wonderful place to enjoy a quiet skate.
- Great Location: After skating, you can enjoy a warm drink or meal in one of the many cozy cafes and restaurants around the pond.
Best Time to Visit:
- The rink is open from December to February, with the best conditions in January and February for a peaceful and serene skating experience.
5. Sokolniki Park Ice Skating Rink
Sokolniki Park, located in northeast Moscow, is a large green space that turns into a winter playground during the colder months. The park features one of the largest ice skating rinks in Moscow, offering plenty of space for skaters of all levels.
Why It’s Special:
- Large Rink: The ice rink at Sokolniki Park is one of the largest in Moscow, which makes it perfect for those who want plenty of space to skate and move around.
- Variety of Activities: In addition to ice skating, the park offers activities such as ice hockey, snowboarding, and sledging, making it a family-friendly destination.
- Festive Feel: Sokolniki is known for its holiday decorations, music, and cozy cafes, making it a perfect place to enjoy the full winter experience.
Best Time to Visit:
- The rink operates from mid-November to March, with the peak winter months offering the best conditions for skating and enjoying the winter atmosphere.
6. Izmailovo Park Ice Skating Rink
Izmailovo Park is one of Moscow’s largest and oldest parks, and during the winter, it transforms into a stunning outdoor ice rink. The park offers a tranquil escape from the city’s noise, making it an excellent choice for skaters looking for a more relaxed and natural environment.
Why It’s Special:
- Large, Natural Setting: The rink is surrounded by the park’s beautiful forests, making it perfect for nature lovers who want to skate in a peaceful, scenic environment.
- Rural Charm: The area around the rink includes traditional Russian wooden cottages and open spaces, giving it a quaint, rustic charm. It’s a great place to escape the city without actually leaving Moscow.
- Family Friendly: The rink is perfect for families, with plenty of space for children to enjoy ice skating and other winter activities.
Best Time to Visit:
- The rink is open from December to February, with the winter months offering the most magical experience of skating among trees and snowy pathways.
7. Luzhniki Ice Skating Rink
Luzhniki Stadium, one of Moscow’s most iconic venues, is home to another fantastic ice skating rink. Located near the Moscow River, this rink offers a large space for skating, complete with incredible views of the surrounding area.
Why It’s Special:
- Iconic Location: Luzhniki Stadium is a historic sports venue, and skating here adds a unique flair to the experience. The rink is set against the backdrop of the stadium’s grand architecture, adding an exciting element to your skate.
- Great Facilities: The rink is well-maintained, with top-notch facilities, including skate rentals and heated rooms. The atmosphere is festive, especially during the winter holidays.
Best Time to Visit:
- December to February is the best time to enjoy the rink when it’s open, with the stadium offering a festive vibe during the New Year’s celebrations.
Conclusion
Moscow’s ice skating rinks provide something for everyone, from iconic historic locations to peaceful neighborhood settings. Whether you want to skate near the Kremlin or experience the winter charm of Patriarch’s Ponds, Moscow offers a variety of options for an unforgettable winter experience. These rinks, combined with Moscow’s festive atmosphere and stunning winter scenery, make ice skating in the Russian capital one of the most magical ways to experience the city during the cold months.