Wichita might not be the first place that springs to mind for ice skating, but our city's dedication to the sport might surprise you! With a top-notch indoor ice center and seasonal outdoor rinks, you can lace up your skates and glide across the ice no matter when you visit the Heart of the Country.

In fact, we've hosted several major figure skating events in recent years, including the 2022 National Theatre on Ice competition, the 2024 Midwestern Synchronized Skating Sectional Championships and the prestigious 2025 Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships.

A young skater enjoys time on the ice with US Figure Skater Kaitlin Hawayek

Wichita Ice Center

The Wichita Ice Center in downtown Wichita is a popular ice-skating destination. Boasting two impressive ice sheets—NHL and Olympic-sized—it offers a fun and accessible skating experience for everyone, whether you're a seasoned pro or lacing up for the first time. With lively music, engaging games, convenient concessions and affordable prices, you're guaranteed a memorable time on the ice.

Open year-round, the Wichita Ice Center provides a wide range of opportunities to enjoy the thrill of skating:

  • Expert coaching and training programs tailored for all ages and skill levels
  • Public skating sessions for casual fun
  • Figure skating-specific sessions for those wanting to practice their moves
  • Birthday parties and private events for special occasions

Public Skating Admission at the Wichita Ice Center:

  • Tuesday evenings: $2 per person
  • Weekdays: $5 per person
  • Nights and weekends: $8 per person
  • Skate rental: $5 per person (free for military/first responders) 

Lights illuminate the ice rink at Chicken n Pickle

Ice Rink at Chicken N Pickle

Each winter, Chicken N Pickle turns part of its outdoor entertainment and dining complex into a beautiful ice pond, inviting guests to enjoy ice skating, curling and hockey! 

Single and group reservations (up to 10 people) are available. The ice pond's opening date varies each season, as building the rink requires temperatures to remain at or below 50 degrees. Follow their social media for daily updates on the pond's status.

Ice Rink admission:

  • Skate Pass: $11
  • Skate Rental: $4
  • Children 3 and under: FREE

Beyond the ice rink, Chicken N Pickle hosts festive holiday events suitable for all ages. Enjoy various winter activities, including playing pickleball on one of their six indoor courts, challenging friends to a game in the game room with ping pong and TV screens, or savoring a delicious meal from their fast-casual dining menu.

Adults can also unwind at Chicken N Pickle's pop-up holiday bar Holiday Hideaway. Its cozy lodge vibes, outdoor fire pits and playful, holiday-themed cocktail menu make it the perfect spot to celebrate the winter season.

People skate on the outdoor ice rink during Somewhere in Winter Festival.

Somewhere in Winter Festival

Launching November 27, the Somewhere in Winter Festival brings an extra dose of holiday sparkle—and a brand-new ice-skating experience—to downtown Wichita. This immersive, weekslong event transforms the heart of the city into a creative winter wonderland, complete with art, live music, food and family-friendly fun.

At its center is a 60-by-90-foot outdoor ice rink, where visitors can skate beneath the open sky surrounded by glowing lights, cozy seating areas in festive igloos. Grab a cup of hot cocoa, shop the artisan market on the weekend and soak in the lively holiday atmosphere that makes this new Wichita tradition one to remember. Entry to the festival is free. 

Ice Rink admission:

  • Skate Pass: $10
  • Skate Rental: $3
  • Skate assist also available for rent

Igloo rental:

  • $50 for 90 minutes

Download our visitor guide and stay tuned to our events page for more inspiration on visiting Wichita!