Your Guide to the Best Outdoor Ice-Skating Rinks in the Midwest

There's no need to hibernate inside when winter's chill arrives. One of the most fun (and healthiest!) ways to get fresh air and make memories is ice-skating. And with the explosion of seasonal rinks in cities around the region, you likely don't have to go far to find an enchanting spot to skim along. Whether you're channeling your inner Gordie Howe in Detroit or working on your best Ice Princess moves in Chicago, here are 15 outdoor ice-skating rinks across the Midwest that stand out from the pack.

Steinberg Skating Rink, St. Louis

At 27,500 square feet, Steinberg is the largest outdoor ice-skating rink in the Midwest and offers public ice-skating in Forest Park every day, including holidays, from mid-November to late February (and roller-skating in summer). Warm up with a pizza or a cup of chili at the rink's Starlight Cafe, and think about all the memories made here—the rink originally opened in November 1957.

Maggie Daley Park, Chicago

The one-of-a-kind outdoor skating ribbon in Maggie Daley Park is a looping quarter-mile path with slight elevation changes that loops past pine trees, a rock climbing wall, and a gorgeous city view. backdrop of the city skyline. A favorite of Midwest Living editors, this experience definitely merits a spot on your Chicago holiday bucket list, but if you don't visit the Windy City over Christmas, don't worry, the ribbon remains open all winter.

Millennium Park, Chicago

Yup, Chicago boasts a pair of must-skate locations. City lights also sparkle around McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park, some of them reflecting off the silver Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean"). During the holiday season, shop or wander around the illuminated Magnificent Mile after you return your skates (if your feet aren't too sore).

The Rink at Campus Martius Park, Detroit

The ice in this downtown square is open from November to March, but it's a must-visit during the holiday season, when festive lights illuminate the park and families cruise beneath Detroit's Christmas Tree. You visit could also coincide with a performance from Olympic figure skaters like Meryl Davis, Charlie White and Ashley Wagner, the likes of whom perform there annually.

Rosa Parks Circle, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Rosa Parks Circle, named for the civil rights activist and designed by globally renowned artist Maya Lin, is a favorite winter destination in Grand Rapids. Below the ice, 166 fiber-optic lights represent the sky of Michigan as it appeared at midnight, January 1, 2000. Another bonus: Admission includes free skate rental.

Centennial Lakes Park, Edina, Minnesota

When winter hits Minnesota, it's time to hit the ice. Centennial Lakes Park in suburban Edina is the perfect urban oasis to try out twirls or pick up some speed. A 10-acre outdoor skating area forms each winter when three main ponds connected by narrow canals freeze. Apartment and office buildings line the park; at night, the ice reflects their glowing lights. When you've had enough of the cold, head to the warming house for cozy fireplaces and plenty of hot beverages. Unlike anything you'll find in most parts of the Midwest, this park is absolutely worth adding to your Minneapolis itinerary.

Crown Center Ice Terrace, Kansas City, Missouri

Each November, Kansas City's Crown Center entertainment district opens its iconic Ice Terrace, now in its 52nd season. The rink stays opens through mid-March, weather permitting, but it's especially festive during the holiday season. Skaters get great views of the Mayor's Christmas Tree, a 100-foot-tall evergreen decked out with thousands of twinkling white lights plus red, gold and silver ornaments.

Tenney Park, Madison, Wisconsin

Madison's 37-acre Tenney Park, just off Lake Mendota, includes has a lagoon that offers a terrific skating experience. The loop takes skaters under bridges and through a good portion of the park. Throughout the season the park hosts special events, including a Glow and Glide and even movie nights on the ice.

Fountain Square Ice Rink, Cincinnati

Looming over downtown's Fountain Square,The Genius of Water is a Cincinnati icon, so it's only fitting that when the water shuts off in winter, an ice rink takes up residence beside it. After a few laps, hit the nearby warming tent for a snack and hot chocolate. As the holidays approach, try to schedule your skating on Saturday nights, when Downtown Dazzle fireworks fill the sky.

Brenton Skating Plaza, Des Moines

Nestled along the Des Moines River in the capital's lively East Village neighborhood, Brenton Skating Plaza has become a seasonal fixture in this growing city, offering skaters a fantastic view of the downtown skyline as they loop around the rink. When you're finished skating, head across the river and warm up with a tasty cocktail at Hello, Marjorie.

The Skate Ribbon at Heartland of America Park, Omaha

Between downtown and the Missouri River, the looped ribbon at Heartland of America Park transforms from a roller-skating path into an ice-skating circuit each winter. A reservation earns you 50 minutes of skating time. Afterward, head to The Old Market for holiday shopping or a bite to eat.

Main Street Square, Rapid City, South Dakota

From November to February, Main Street Square in Rapid City transforms into a lively ice rink. Surrounded by festive lights and the sounds of the season, it's a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to revel in the winter spirit. In addition to group skating, the Rapid City square hosts local events such as Winter Market and an All-Ability Skate Day.

Rink at Wade Oval, Cleveland

The Rink at Wade Oval, open from early December to late February, sits among popular attractions like the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, The Cleveland Museum of Art and Cleveland Botanical Garden. Another bonus: free skating lessons each Saturday at 1 p.m. Holiday lights glow at Christmas, but the fun's not over then—around Valentine's Day, the rink twinkles in red and pink lights.

Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, Rockford, Illinois

In spring and summer, the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens in Rockford comes alive with color. But in winter, there's another draw. When the ice is thick enough to be safe at the gardens' Eclipse Lagoon, the 500-foot pond gets new life as an outdoor skating spot. Conditions permitting, visitors can glide from the glass conservatory down to the Sinnissippi Rose Garden—all for free.

Ice Rink at Holliday Park, Indianapolis

This rink is the crown jewel of Holliday Park's 94 acres of winter wonderland. Pair your skating with a wintry hike along the frozen White River or through the park's forested ravines. Or check out the Ruins, statues and columns from since-destroyed buildings that now form an interactive art installation.