With this uncommonly warm fall, it’s hard to believe the holiday season is here. Yet, the streetlights have already began to flicker with candles. The shopkeepers have jumped the seasonal gun dusting windows with fake snow and adorning them with messages of joy. Canal path already glisten with ice and frost. To join in this holiday spirit, we suggest heading down to the Washington Harbour Ice Rink for a full day of skating and drinks.
The Harbour is conveniently located at the end of Thomas Jefferson street, just two blocks from the Graham, on a gorgeous esplanade on the Potomac River. Whether you grew up practicing for Olympic trials, or are just a fan of the Mighty Ducks, ice skating is the invigorating and active winter treat that’s fun for the whole family.
The ice rink covers 11,800 square feet, making it one of the largest outdoor rinks in DC. It’s located right in the middle of the harbour where a large fountain is on display drung the summer. If you’ve never been ice skating before or are feeling a little timid, the rink also offers skate lessons for all ages and skill levels. Or, you could use one of their penguin ‘skate helpers’ which steadies you as you glide.
Surrounded by restaurants, it’s easy to spend an entire day here. For a mid-skate drink check out Nick’s Riverside Grill which offers special winter cocktails like the Winter’s Sin, a hot chocolate with whipped cream flavored vodka. Tony and Joe’s has delicious, fresh seafood, and from their balcony you get great views of the rink as well as the Kennedy Center, Key Bridge, and Teddy Roosevelt Island.
The rink attracts locals and tourists alike and can get crowded on weekends so make sure to get there early. The Washington Harbour ice rink is open now through March and costs $10 for Adults and $9 for children. Renting skates is an extra $5.