The holidays are all about making memories with family and friends. As kids get settled into winter break, there’s no better time to head out and take advantage of all the fun activities happening around Huntsville.
One of our favorites is Skating in the park at Big Spring Park. The rink is set up directly behind the Huntsville Museum of Art and decked out with lights, hay bells for sitting, colorful pallets, and festive music every year. For a place that isn’t known for being a Winter Wonderland, you can find plenty of wintry vibes tucked throughout the park, perfect for helping usher in the holiday feel-goods.
What to expect
Paying and getting set up were quick and easy. Even though it didn’t take very long, it was still enough time for my kids to scope out the hot chocolate and snacks offered at the nearby snack stand. Because we wanted to get started, we promised a break halfway through our planned outing to indulge them in treats. If you’re bringing small kids along, hitting up the snacks midway through will offer an excellent opportunity for everyone to regain some of the energy exerted on the ice.
Before hitting the ice, you’ll exchange your shoes for a pair of sanitized ice skates. The skates range in size and are even available for some tiny toddler-sized feet. If you’re new to skating, you may also want to consider renting one of the skating aids affectionately known as scooters. Although typically reserved for kids, scooters can be used by anyone needing a little help staying upright. Even if you don’t personally need the assistance, they’re handy for helping adults keep their littles up while also giving arms a break.
One of my favorite features is the city’s portable restroom located a few feet from the rink. It’s handicap accessible and close enough to the venue to ensure you don’t miss out on much while away. We also really enjoyed seeing some of the trees from Tinsel Trail while skating. It’s quite charming when the lights come on at night!
Special Events
Be sure to check out all the events that make skating in the park even more fun. There are many ways to make skating memorable this season, from superhero skate nights to New Year’s Eve-themed skate nights.
Event days and times are on the official skating in the park calendar, along with holiday hours.
Can’t make it before the holiday? No worries. Skating in the park will be ae around until January 17th, 2022. There’s plenty of time to get down there and enjoy!
Skating in the park
Admission & Rental Pricing:
- $15 Ages 10 & up
- $10 Ages 9 and under
- $13 Groups of 10 or more
- $5 Scooter rental
- $5 Discount if you bring your skates
- 10% Discount at the Museum Store when you show your skating wristband
Regular Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Friday: 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Sunday: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Zenovia is a two time graduate of Alabama A&M University where she earned a B.S. and M.S. in Biology. A former Regulatory Affairs Specialist in the Pharmaceutical Industry, She currently works from home as a Regional Project Coordinator and is the mom to 3 extraordinary boys.
