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Tristate Ice Management Ice Skating ice skating rink in Silver Spring, MD
Photo: J S
View of Tristate Ice Management Ice Skating in Silver Spring, MD
Photo: Jacob Kuba
View of Tristate Ice Management Ice Skating in Silver Spring, MD
Photo: Adam Carlesco

Tristate Ice Management Ice Skating

4.3(135 reviews)$Sports
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children (4-7) can use skating aids and trainers to build confidence, while older kids and teens enjoy open skate sessions and the social atmosphere. Lessons are available for all skill levels, making it accessible for first-timers and experienced skaters alike.

About

Tristate Ice Management brings winter magic to Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring with a seasonal outdoor ice skating rink that's perfect for families. With dedicated family skate sessions, on-site lessons for beginners, and a festive atmosphere complete with twinkling lights and seasonal music, it's an ideal spot to create holiday memories or simply enjoy classic winter fun close to home.

Highlights

  • Outdoor skating under the stars with festive holiday lights and music
  • Skating aids and trainers available for young or beginner skaters
  • Professional lessons offered for kids wanting to improve their skills
  • Central downtown location with easy access to hot chocolate and warm-up spots
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with designated family skate times

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early on weekends to rent skates before the crowds,Saturday and Sunday mornings (10:00 AM opening) fill up quickly during peak season.
  2. 2.Dress kids in layers with waterproof gloves and pants, as falls on ice mean wet clothes. Bring extra mittens since they inevitably get soaked.
  3. 3.Consider booking a lesson package if your child is new to skating,instructors use helpful aids and techniques that make learning much faster than struggling alone.
  4. 4.Visit on weekday afternoons (Monday-Thursday after school) for smaller crowds and more ice space, especially if you have nervous beginners.
  5. 5.Park in the nearby public garage on Ellsworth Drive,it's a short walk to Veterans Plaza and more reliable than street parking during busy evening sessions.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday afternoons (Monday-Thursday, 12:00-5:00 PM) offer the least crowded skating sessions, perfect for beginners still finding their ice legs. Weekend mornings right at opening are ideal for families wanting to avoid the evening rush while still enjoying the festive atmosphere.

What to Know

Skate rental is available on-site with multiple sizes for children. Veterans Plaza is in downtown Silver Spring with ample nearby parking garages and restaurants. The rink operates seasonally (typically late November through early March), so check their schedule before planning your visit.

Seasonal Notes

This is a seasonal winter attraction, typically operating from late November through early March depending on weather conditions. The rink features special holiday events and themed skate nights during December. Hours are extended on weekends and during school holiday breaks. Always check their seasonal schedule as weather may occasionally impact operations.

Nearby Eats

Parkway Deli & Restaurant (classic diner with kids' menu and comfort food) is just a block away, perfect for warming up with hot soup after skating. For a quick bite, Urban Bar-B-Que Company offers family-friendly BBQ options within easy walking distance of Veterans Plaza.

More Activities Near Silver Spring

Adventure

Sligo Creek Trail

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Sligo Creek Trail offers families a scenic 10-mile paved path perfect for building biking confidence in young riders or enjoying leisurely nature walks without the hassle of navigating traffic. The trail winds through shaded woodlands and alongside babbling Sligo Creek, creating a peaceful escape from suburban life while remaining easily accessible from multiple neighborhood entry points throughout Silver Spring.

Activity

Brookside Gardens

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Brookside Gardens offers 50 acres of stroller-friendly exploration with something magical for every season. Kids delight in the whimsical Children's Garden with interactive features, the seasonal Butterfly Garden (summer months), and the fairytale-like conservatory filled with tropical plants year-round.

Theater

AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center

4.8$

Step into a beautifully restored 1938 Art Deco gem that offers so much more than typical movie theater fare. The AFI Silver Theatre specializes in family-friendly classics, animated favorites, and special children's programming that introduces kids to the magic of cinema in a stunning historic setting with state-of-the-art projection and sound.

Park

Wheaton Regional Park

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Wheaton Regional Park is a sprawling 536-acre wonderland that offers something for every family member, making it one of Silver Spring's most beloved destinations. With its vintage carousel, miniature train that chugs through the woods, expansive playgrounds, and nature center teeming with wildlife, you can easily spend an entire day exploring without running out of activities. The park's combination of classic attractions and natural beauty creates the perfect balance between structured fun and outdoor adventure.