Pasadena Ice Skating Center
About
Beat the Southern California heat at this year-round indoor ice skating rink located in the heart of Pasadena. With dedicated family skate sessions, beginner-friendly lessons, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for first-time skaters and experienced gliders alike to enjoy a unique activity together.
Highlights
- ✓Year-round climate-controlled indoor rink,perfect escape from hot summer days
- ✓Skating aids available free for beginners learning to balance
- ✓Family-friendly public sessions with current music and fun atmosphere
- ✓Affordable group and private lessons for kids wanting to improve their skills
- ✓Birthday party packages that make celebrating easy and memorable
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early during public sessions to get skate rentals before crowds form, especially on weekends when wait times can be 15-20 minutes
- 2.Bring your own gloves (required for skating) to save a few dollars, and dress in layers,the rink is chilly but kids warm up quickly while moving
- 3.Request a skating aid (walker-like support) for beginners at no extra charge; they make a huge difference for first-timers' confidence
- 4.Thursday afternoon sessions (1:00-5:00 PM) tend to be less crowded than weekend times, perfect for nervous beginners
- 5.Book birthday party packages in advance,they're popular and include skate rental, reserved seating, and party room access
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoon sessions (Monday-Thursday 1:00-3:00 PM or 1:00-5:00 PM) offer the most elbow room for learning without weekend crowds. Summer months are especially popular as families seek indoor cool activities.
What to Know
Public skating admission is budget-friendly (typically $12-15 including skate rental). Parking is available in nearby lots and street parking around Green Street. A small snack bar offers hot chocolate and light refreshments, but no full meals.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours, making it an ideal summer activity when outdoor play is too hot. Holiday-themed skating sessions often scheduled around Christmas and winter breaks. Hours may vary during major holidays, so call ahead.
Nearby Eats
Old Pasadena is just blocks away with dozens of family options including The Cheesecake Factory (kids menu, something for everyone) and Dog Haus (gourmet hot dogs and burgers kids love). Both are within a 5-minute walk.
More Activities Near Pasadena
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington is a sprawling 120-acre wonderland that combines beautiful gardens, world-class art, and interactive spaces perfect for curious kids. The dedicated Helen and Peter Bing Children's Garden features hands-on nature play, a fog grotto, and a prism tunnel, while the expansive grounds offer endless opportunities for exploration, picnicking, and discovering everything from koi ponds to desert plants.
Norton Simon Museum
The Norton Simon Museum offers a surprisingly welcoming art experience for families, with a stunning sculpture garden that provides breathing room between galleries. While it houses world-class European masterpieces and Southeast Asian treasures, the museum's family programs and manageable size make it accessible for introducing children to fine art without the overwhelm of larger institutions.
Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens offers 150 acres of natural beauty perfect for families seeking outdoor exploration without long hikes. Kids absolutely love the Enchanted Railroad, a miniature train that winds through the gardens, while parents appreciate the stroller-friendly paths that meander through stunning rose gardens, oak woodlands, and seasonal blooms that change throughout the year.
Eaton Canyon Nature Center
Eaton Canyon Nature Center offers families an accessible outdoor adventure right in Pasadena, with its star attraction being the 3.5-mile round-trip hike to a stunning 40-foot seasonal waterfall. The nature center itself features live animal exhibits including snakes, lizards, and birds of prey, plus hands-on displays that make learning about Southern California ecosystems engaging for young explorers.