Ice Skating Rinks in Tallahassee, FL

As one might expect, in Tallahassee -- the capital of a state more known for hot weather and sun-kissed beaches -- ice skating is not exactly the most popular form of recreation. Opportunities for engaging in ice skating in the area are rather limited, with the only available rink in the Tallahassee metro area being a seasonal outdoor skating area.

  1. Kleman Plaza “Ice” Skating Rink

    • Typically starting just after Thanksgiving and lasting until the end of the holidays, the City of Tallahassee sets up a temporary “ice” skating rink in Kleman Plaza as part of its annual Winter Festival. The outdoor rink is not ice at all; the rink is made from a warm-weather-friendly synthetic material. Paid hourlong skating sessions include skate rental. Kleman Plaza is located in the heart of downtown Tallahassee, with a handful of restaurants and bars within a few minutes’ walk. Parking is available directly under Kleman Plaza in the city-owned parking garage.

    Sandestin: Village at Baytown Wharf Ice Skating Rink

    • Sandestin, a seaside resort complex about 150 miles west-southwest of Tallahassee also offers seasonal ice skating. Starting in November and lasting until mid-February, Sandestin sets up a temporary ice rink in the Village of Baytowne Wharf (baytownewharf.com). The ice rink is covered and open daily -- rain or shine. The Village of Baytowne Wharf is the main entertainment area for Sandestin. The Baytowne Wharf complex also offers numerous shops, restaurants and bars -- all within easy walking distance from the ice skating rink. In Baytowne Wharf, other outdoor adventure entertainment is available at the Baytowne Adventure Zone; available activities include zip-lining, a rock climbing wall, a “Sky Trail” ropes course and bungee jumping.

    Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex

    • About 165 miles east of Tallahassee, in Jacksonville, is the Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex (jaxiceandsportsplex.com). This facility has an indoor ice skating rink and an indoor multipurpose sports area. The Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex offers numerous skating activities and programs, including open public skate times, ice skating lessons, figure skating programs, and youth and adult ice hockey programs. In addition to sports facilities, the Sportsplex offers a pro shop and a concession stand.

    Panama City Beach: Christmas Tree Forest and Ice Palace

    • Like Tallahassee, Panama City Beach sets up a seasonal artificial rink during the holidays. Panama City Beach is a popular oceanside vacation destination about 105 miles southwest of Tallahassee. Starting in mid-November and lasting until Christmas, the Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau sets up the “Christmas Tree Forest and Ice Palace” featuring numerous lit Christmas trees and a 50-by-100-foot artificial ice skating rink. The centerpiece of the Christmas Tree Forest is a 40-foot-tall Christmas tree with a choreographed light and music display. The Christmas Tree Forest and Ice Palace are set up at the corner of Alf Coleman Drive and Front Beach Road; skating is available Thursday through Saturday during the season.