UC Health Ice Rink presented by Fifth Third Bank
Skaters can take to the outdoor ice rink in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. Balance aids are available for those learning to skate, and adult traction aids allow parents to walk alongside their children on the ice. Visitors can warm up in the warming tent or stop by the Pavilion Bar for snacks and hot or cold beverages.
What to Expect
Cincinnati's outdoor ice skating tradition relocated to Elm Street Plaza.
Event Details
Food & Drink
The Pavilion Bar offers snacks, hot and cold drinks, Coca-Cola products, beer, wine, and select spirits; food and drinks are not allowed on the ice.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and beginner skaters
Vibe
Festive and active
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
High
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $12 per person, including skate rental; children ages 5 and under are free with a paid adult admission and must be accompanied by an adult on the ice at all times. Skate aids are free of charge. Special events may include admission discounts.
- Hours: Nov 7–Dec 17 and Jan 4–Feb 21: Monday–Wednesday 3p–8p; Thursday–Friday 3p–10p; Saturday 9a–11p; Sunday 9a–8p. Nov 23–25: Monday–Wednesday 12p–8p. Nov 26–27: Thursday–Friday 12p–10p. Dec 18–Jan 3: Monday–Sunday 9a–11p.
- Parking: Parking is available at the 5th and Race Garage (84.51 building), 120 W. 5th Street, with entrances on 5th and 6th Streets. Additional parking is a block away at the Fountain Square garage, The Foundry Garage, and the 4th & Race garage.
- Accessibility: Adult traction aids are available for parents walking with children on the ice, with proper footwear required; skate aids are first come, first served.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed on the ice.
Tips & Advice
- Bring proper footwear if you plan to use adult traction aids to walk on the ice with a child.
- Arrive before admission and skate rental end one hour before closing so you have time to get on the ice.
- Keep phones, cameras, backpacks and large purses off the ice; the rink rules prohibit using or carrying them while skating.
- Allow for resurfacing breaks, when skaters must leave the ice for 15–20 minutes every two to three hours.
- Check rink status before setting out during warm, humid or rainy weather, as conditions can temporarily close the rink.
Special Events & Promotions
- Children ages 5 and under enter free with a paid adult admission.
- Special events may offer admission discounts, such as college skate; check the event calendar or Facebook for details.
- The Warming Tent, igloos, and pergolas are available to rent.
- The 2026–27 season opens on November 7, 2026.
- The rink operates daily during December 18–January 3, with different hours from the regular schedule.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages can skate, and do children need an adult with them?
Children ages five and under skate free with a paid adult admission and must be accompanied by an adult on the ice. Anyone under 16 needs a parent or guardian to skate, and children under 55 inches must have an adult with them on the ice.
Are skate aids available?
Push-along and ride-on skate aids are free and available first come, first served. Adult traction aids let parents walk on the ice with children; proper footwear is required.
What food and drinks are available?
The Pavilion Bar serves snacks, hot and cold drinks, beer, wine and select spirits. Food and drinks are not allowed on the ice.
Where can I park?
The 5th and Race Garage is at 120 W. 5th Street, with entrances on 5th and 6th Streets. Other garages are a block away at Fountain Square, The Foundry and 4th & Race.
Can I bring my pet onto the ice?
No. Pets are not allowed on the ice.
More Christmas Events near Cincinnati
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