Winter Wonderland: Ice Skating Rinks Open in Upstate for Holiday Fun

Winter Fun is On the Ice in the Upstate!

While many of us look longingly at winter wonderlands from afar, the folks here in the Upstate area are gearing up for some fantastic winter fun that doesn’t require snow! That’s right—ice skating rinks are opening across the region, ensuring we all get to enjoy that magical holiday spirit, even if we’re dreaming of a white Christmas. So dust off those skates (or rent a pair) and get ready for some frosty fun at these local rinks!

1. UC Ice on Main – Downtown Greenville

The much-anticipated UC Ice on Main is back, providing a cheerful atmosphere right in the heart of Greenville. The ice rink opens on November 25, and will remain open through January 20. With regular hours of 2-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 2-10 p.m. Friday, and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, it’s the perfect stop for families and friends looking to make lifelong memories. Plus, during the festive period from December 20 to January 2, you can skate daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are priced at $10 for ages 3 and up, while little tikes aged 2 and under can skate for free. And don’t miss out! Tuesdays after 3 p.m. offer half-price tickets, and on December 4, tickets are just $4 thanks to WYFF 4!

2. Ice in the Park – Anderson

Heading over to Anderson? Ice in the Park at Carolina Wren Park is ready to open its doors on December 2, offering a magical skating experience until January 5. Regular hours before the holidays will be 5-9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2-6 p.m. on Sundays. Then from December 23 to January 5, the rink shifts to a new schedule, with hours from 1-9 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on weekends. Keep in mind that the rink closes on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. For just $5, those aged six and older can join in the fun, and kids 5 and under skate free!

3. Night of Lights – Simpsonville

What could be more festive than combining twinkling lights with ice skating? At the Night of Lights in Simpsonville, this dream comes true! Taking place at Heritage Park from November 22 through January 3, this event features a mesmerizing walk-through light display, a joyous petting zoo, carnival rides, and of course, an outdoor skating rink. Admission costs $12 for guests aged 5-15, and $15 for those 16 and older, with free entry for the littlest visitors aged 4 and under. Skating is an additional $8, but if you time your visit right, there are themed free admission days on various weekdays!

4. Founders Holiday Ice Rink – Rock Hill

Across from Fountain Park in Rock Hill, the Founders Holiday Ice Rink is already open and will continue to welcome skaters until January 20. With hours from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 5-9:30 p.m. on Fridays, noon-9:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and being open until 8 p.m. on Sundays, it’s another great option for holiday skating. The admission fee is $15 for an hour and a half of skating joy.

5. Pavilion Recreation Complex – Taylors

But wait—there’s something for those who wish to skate year-round! At the Pavilion Recreation Complex in Taylors, you’ll find an indoor ice rink that’s open to the public all year long. Be sure to check out their schedule by calling 322-PLAY to find out when you can hit the ice!

So whether you’re a seasoned skater or new to the rink, the Upstate offers various options to have yourself a merry little winter! Lace up those skates and dive into the holiday spirit, because the ice is calling your name!