Skip to main content
Desert Diamond Arena arena in Glendale, CA
Photo: Desert Diamond Arena
View of Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, CA
Photo: Colby Devereaux
View of Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, CA
Photo: Kimberly Short

Desert Diamond Arena

4.5(5,381 reviews)$Sports
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children (4-7) can use skating aids and take beginner lessons, while older kids and teens enjoy the freedom of open skating sessions. Families with toddlers under 4 may find it challenging, though some very steady little ones do well with assistance.

About

Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale offers families a cool escape from the Arizona heat with its indoor ice skating rink. Beyond public skating sessions, the arena hosts family skating nights and provides lessons for children of all skill levels, making it perfect for both first-timers and budding figure skaters. With a 4.5-star rating from thousands of visitors, it's a proven hit with local families looking for active, affordable entertainment.

Highlights

  • Public skating sessions perfect for beginners and families
  • Skate lesson programs for children to build confidence on the ice
  • Special family skating nights with music and themed events
  • On-ice skating aids available for young or unsteady skaters
  • Year-round indoor ice skating,a rare treat in Arizona's desert climate

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive 30 minutes early for skate rentals and sizing,the line can get long during family nights and weekends
  2. 2.Bring gloves or mittens for all skaters; they're required on the ice and protect little hands from cold and falls
  3. 3.Check the arena's website before visiting as the schedule varies due to hockey games and special events that close the rink to public skating
  4. 4.Pack extra socks and consider wearing layers,it's chilly on the ice but warm in the lobby areas
  5. 5.Sign up for lessons in advance during peak winter months as they fill up quickly, especially around holiday breaks

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings and early afternoons offer the least crowded skating sessions, perfect for beginners. Avoid Friday and Saturday evenings when family nights draw large crowds. Visit during fall and winter months when the novelty of ice skating feels most seasonal, though the indoor rink operates year-round.

What to Know

Public skating admission is typically budget-friendly (around $10-15 per person including skate rental). The arena has ample free parking, concessions for snacks, and wheelchair accessibility throughout the facility.

Seasonal Notes

The ice rink operates year-round, making it an especially popular summer destination when families seek air-conditioned activities. Holiday-themed skating events run during winter months (December-January), and the arena may host special Halloween and Valentine's skating sessions. Always check the public skating schedule as the arena regularly hosts hockey games and concerts that affect rink availability.

Nearby Eats

Westgate Entertainment District is adjacent to the arena, offering numerous family-friendly options like Yard House (with an extensive kids menu) and Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers. For a quick post-skate treat, head to the nearby In-N-Out Burger just minutes away.

More Activities Near Glendale

Sports

Dodger Stadium

4.7$$

Dodger Stadium offers guided tours that take families behind the scenes of one of baseball's most iconic venues. Kids can walk through the dugout, visit the press box, and explore areas usually off-limits during games while learning about the legendary Dodgers' rich history spanning over 60 years in Los Angeles.

Sports

Glendale Sports Complex

4.7$

The Glendale Sports Complex is a fantastic multi-purpose facility that keeps active families entertained with its impressive swimming pools, aquatic programs, and diverse recreational activities. With its excellent 4.7-star rating and extended hours seven days a week, this well-maintained complex offers something for everyone from toddlers to teens, making it a reliable go-to spot for families looking to burn energy and stay active.

Park

Brand Park

4.8Free

Brand Park is a spacious Glendale gem offering families a perfect blend of open green spaces, cultural attractions, and seasonal events. With its historic Brand Library, Japanese Tea House, playground areas, and wide-open lawns ideal for picnicking and running around, this park provides something for every family member to enjoy in a beautiful hillside setting.

Nature

Deukmejian Wilderness Park

4.8Free

Deukmejian Wilderness Park offers families an accessible escape into nature right in Glendale, with well-maintained hiking trails that range from easy stroller-friendly paths to more challenging climbs for adventurous kids. The park's scenic mountain views, shaded picnic areas, and seasonal creek make it perfect for families looking to introduce children to hiking without venturing far from the city.