Introduction
When you think of Florida, ice skating probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. The Sunshine State is known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and outdoor recreation opportunities. However, even in Florida, ice skating is a popular activity, and there are several great ice rinks throughout the state where you can lace up your skates and hit the ice.
Whether you’re a figure skater, hockey player, or just looking for a fun and unique activity to beat the heat, Florida has plenty of excellent ice rinks to choose from. Here are 10 of the best ice rinks in Florida:
Table of Contents
The 10 Best Ice Rinks in Florida
1. BB&T Center – Sunrise
The BB&T Center in Sunrise is home ice for the Florida Panthers of the National Hockey League. Even when the Panthers aren’t playing, the arena’s ice is open to the public for skating. The BB&T Center offers public skating sessions throughout the year, including themed skate nights and special events. With its NHL-sized ice sheet and state-of-the-art amenities, the BB&T Center is a must-visit for any ice skating enthusiast.
2. FLA Live Arena – Sunrise
Located next to the BB&T Center, the FLA Live Arena is another top-notch ice rink in Sunrise. The arena hosts a variety of ice hockey tournaments and figure skating competitions, and also offers public skating sessions. The FLA Live Arena features an NHL-sized ice sheet and state-of-the-art amenities, making it an ideal destination for skaters of all levels.
3. RDV Sportsplex – Maitland
The RDV Sportsplex in Maitland is a premier ice rink in the Orlando area. The sports complex is home to the RDV Ice Den, which offers public skating, ice hockey leagues, figure skating lessons, and more. The RDV Sportsplex also features a fitness center, athletic training facilities, and a sports medicine clinic, making it a one-stop shop for all your athletic needs.
4. Ice Factory – Kissimmee
The Ice Factory is a popular ice rink located in Kissimmee, just south of Orlando. The rink offers public skating sessions, ice hockey leagues, and skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. The Ice Factory also hosts ice hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions, and other events throughout the year, making it a hub of ice skating activity in the region.
5. Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex – Ellenton
The Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex is a state-of-the-art ice rink located in Ellenton, near St. Petersburg. The complex features two NHL-sized ice sheets and offers public skating, ice hockey leagues, figure skating lessons, and more. The Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex also hosts a variety of ice hockey tournaments and figure skating competitions, attracting skaters from throughout the state.
6. TGH Ice Plex – Tampa
The TGH Ice Plex is a popular ice rink located in Tampa. The rink offers public skating sessions, ice hockey leagues, and skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. The TGH Ice Plex also hosts ice hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions, and other events throughout the year, making it a great destination for skaters of all interests.
7. AdventHealth Center Ice – Wesley Chapel
The AdventHealth Center Ice is a state-of-the-art ice rink located in Wesley Chapel, near Tampa. The rink features three NHL-sized ice sheets and offers public skating, ice hockey leagues, figure skating lessons, and more. The AdventHealth Center Ice also hosts a variety of ice hockey tournaments and figure skating competitions, solidifying its reputation as one of the top ice rinks in Florida.
8. Jacksonville Ice and Sports Plex – Jacksonville
The Jacksonville Ice and Sports Plex is a premier ice rink in the Jacksonville area. The rink offers public skating sessions, ice hockey leagues, figure skating lessons, and more. The Jacksonville Ice and Sports Plex also hosts ice hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions, and other events throughout the year, making it a must-visit for skaters in the region.
9. Bill Gray’s Regional Ice Plex – Parrish
Bill Gray’s Regional Ice Plex is a popular ice rink located in Parrish, near Sarasota. The rink offers public skating sessions, ice hockey leagues, and skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. Bill Gray’s Regional Ice Plex also hosts ice hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions, and other events throughout the year, attracting skaters from throughout the state.
10. Intercoastal Ice Arena – Pompano Beach
The Intercoastal Ice Arena is a state-of-the-art ice rink located in Pompano Beach, near Fort Lauderdale. The rink features an NHL-sized ice sheet and offers public skating, ice hockey leagues, figure skating lessons, and more. The Intercoastal Ice Arena also hosts a variety of ice hockey tournaments and figure skating competitions, making it a great destination for skaters of all levels.
Warm Up with These Delicious Winter Treats
After a fun-filled session on the ice, there’s nothing like warming up with a delicious winter treat. From hot chocolate to cookies and more, these tasty goodies are the perfect way to cap off your ice skating adventure. Here are some of the best winter treats to try:
1. Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is a classic winter treat that’s perfect for warming up after ice skating. Made with rich, melted chocolate and steaming hot milk, hot chocolate is a delicious and comforting drink that’s sure to hit the spot. You can customize your hot chocolate with marshmallows, whipped cream, and more to make it even tastier. And with its warming effects, hot chocolate is the perfect way to thaw out your hands and get your blood flowing after a chilly session on the ice.
2. Cookies
Cookies are a sweet and satisfying winter treat that pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of cocoa. From classic chocolate chip to oatmeal raisin and peanut butter, there are endless types of cookies to try. And with their portable nature, cookies are a great treat to bring along to the ice rink and snack on between sessions. So why not bake up a batch of your favorite cookies and enjoy them as a tasty reward after your time on the ice?
3. Popcorn
Popcorn is a fun and easy winter treat that’s perfect for snacking on at the ice rink. This tasty snack is easy to make and can be flavored in endless ways, from butter and salt to cheese and caramel. And with its light and airy texture, popcorn is a great treat to munch on while you’re taking a break from the action on the ice. So why not pop up a batch of popcorn and enjoy it as a delicious winter treat?
4. Cider Donuts
Cider donuts are a sweet and tasty winter treat that pair perfectly with a cold glass of apple cider. These delicious donuts are made with fresh apple cider and topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar coating. And with their soft and fluffy texture, cider donuts are a great treat to enjoy while you’re taking a break from the ice. So why not try a cider donut (or two, or three!) on your next ice skating adventure?
5. S’mores
S’mores are a classic winter treat that’s perfect for making at the ice rink. These tasty goodies are made with chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers, and are easy to make over a fire pit or with a s’mores maker. And with their gooey, chocolatey goodness, s’mores are a great treat to enjoy while you’re warming up after your time on the ice. So why not make some s’mores on your next ice skating adventure and enjoy them as a delicious winter treat?
Ice Skating Tips for Beginners
If you’re new to ice skating, it’s natural to feel a little nervous or unsure of what to expect. But with a few simple tips and some practice, you’ll be gliding across the ice in no time. Here are some ice skating tips for beginners to help you get started:
1. Take a Lesson
One of the best ways to learn how to ice skate is to take a lesson from a qualified instructor. Ice skating lessons can teach you the basics of how to stand, walk, and glide on the ice, as well as how to stop, turn, and more. And with the personalized attention of an instructor, you’ll be able to learn at your own pace and get feedback on your technique. According to the Ice Skating Institute, taking lessons is one of the top tips for beginner skaters (Ice Skating Institute). So why not sign up for an ice skating lesson and see how much you can learn?
2. Start on the Edges
When you’re first getting started with ice skating, it can be helpful to start on the edges of your blades. This will give you more stability and make it easier to balance on the ice. As you get more comfortable, you can try shifting your weight onto the flats of your blades and gliding on one foot at a time. And remember, it’s okay to hold onto the wall or barrier for support until you feel steady on your feet. The United States Figure Skating Association recommends starting on the edges and using the wall for support until you get your balance (US Figure Skating Association).
3. Keep Your Knees Bent
Keeping your knees bent is key to maintaining your balance on the ice. This will lower your center of gravity and make it easier to stay upright. And with your knees bent, you’ll be better able to absorb the movements of the ice and stay steady on your feet. So try to keep your knees slightly bent as you skate, and see how much more balanced you feel. According to Skate School, keeping your knees bent is one of the most important tips for beginner skaters (Skate School).
4. Look Where You Want to Go
When you’re ice skating, it’s important to keep your eyes on the horizon and look in the direction you want to go. This will help you maintain your balance and stay on course. And by keeping your eyes up and focused on a point in front of you, you’ll be less likely to get dizzy or lose your balance. So try to keep your eyes on the horizon as you skate, and see how much more steady you feel. The Ice Skating Institute recommends keeping your eyes on the horizon to help with balance and direction (Ice Skating Institute).
5. Practice, Practice, Practice
Like any new skill, ice skating takes practice to master. So don’t get discouraged if you don’t pick it up right away – just keep practicing and you’ll get the hang of it in no time. Try to go ice skating as often as you can, and practice different skills each time you go. And remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the experience of gliding across the ice. According to US Figure Skating, the key to getting better at ice skating is to practice regularly (US Figure Skating).
Conclusion
Ice skating is a sport with a rich history and a bright future. From its origins in prehistoric times to its current popularity around the world, ice skating has come a long way. And with its many disciplines, including figure skating, ice hockey, speed skating, and more, there’s something for everyone in the sport. Whether you’re interested in the grace and beauty of figure skating, the speed and excitement of ice hockey, or the thrill of racing on the ice, skating has something to offer. And with Florida’s many great ice rinks, you have plenty of opportunities to get involved and see where the sport takes you.
So why not give ice skating a try on your next visit to Florida? You might just discover a new passion and a fun way to stay active and healthy. And with its warm weather and sunny climate, Florida is the perfect place to enjoy some ice time in comfort. So lace up your skates and hit the ice – you never know where it might take you!
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