The Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green is the only outdoor ice rink in Houston and one of the few in Texas.
It also happens to be one of the largest ice rinks in the Southwest!
It’s perfect for a date night, family outing, or a group event.
Here’s everything you need to know about this Christmas attraction in Houston, Texas.
Also Read: 20 Best Things to do for Christmas in Houston, TX now
Where is Discovery Green located?
In the heart of downtown Houston, you’ll find Discovery Green—a 12-acre park that is perfect for a summer day.
The park has a playground, a dog run, two restaurants, an event lawn, and much more.
And in the center of it all is the beautiful Kinder Lake.
During the holiday season, the park is also home to the Green Mountain Energy Ice Rink.
You won’t believe your eyes when you see the model boat basin on Kinder Lake transform into this spectacular ice rink every year.
It’s a truly amazing engineering wonder!
Also Read: 24 Best Things to do for Christmas in Texas
When is the Ice at Discovery Green open?
The Ice is Discovery Green’s popular outdoor ice rink.
The outdoor ice rink will be open for the season from November 11, 2022 to January 29, 2023.
The rink is open Monday through Thursday from 5pm to 10pm Monday to Friday.
On the weekends and school holidays, the rink is open from 11 am until close.
The rink is also open on holidays including Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day though hours may vary.
Check out the website for updated Ice at Discovery Green hours each season as well as last ticket sales times.
Discovery Green Ice Rink Prices
The ice rink offers affordable family fun in Houston, Texas during the Christmas season.
Admission to skate at the Discovery Green ice rink is just $17 for adults and includes skate rental.
Need something cheaper? Try the Cheap Skate Mondays when you can enjoy ice skating for $8 – skate rental included!
Certain visitors including Green Mountain Energy employees, first responders, and military personnel have $2 discounts.
All tickets have to be purchased online here.
Things to do and holiday activities at Discovery Green Ice Skating Rink
The outdoor ice rink at Discovery Green is the perfect place to embrace the magic of winter in Houston, TX.
Here are the special events and activities to enjoy at the ice rink.
Also Read: 23 Best Things to do in Houston, Texas
Enjoy the skyline views during the day
One of the best things about Discovery Green ice skating is the view.
Not only do you get a great view of Kinder Lake, but you also get a front row seat to some of Houston’s most iconic skyline views.
The skyscrapers downtown are absolutely breathtaking.
Make sure to take some time to enjoy the view while you’re skating!
Take the littles to the Ice Box
The Ice Box is a smaller rink that’s perfect for the littles.
They can practice their skating skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Skate under the stars with your date at night
Nestled amongst the towering buildings in Houston’s skyline, the outdoor ice rink at Discovery Green is truly a sight to behold.
Surrounded by festive lights and holiday decorations, couples can enjoy an unforgettable experience skating under the stars.
Try the goodies at Snack-N-Skate Shop
Need to take a break from skating?
You can warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or roasted peanuts from the Snack-N-Skate Shop.
You can also buy some souvenirs to remember your experience at the Discovery Green ice rink.
Enjoy special events at the ice rink
Throughout the season, the ice rink hosts special events.
Past events have included live music performances, skating with Santa, Houston sports team gear dress up days, and more.
Skating with Santa is our favorite event – you can watch famous figure skaters perform demonstrations that are simply awe-inspiring.
Listen to live music on the rink
One of the best things about Discovery Green is the live music.
You can enjoy live music performances from Christmas classics to coolest pop hits while skating at the rink.
It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit!
Take skating lessons
If you’re new to skating or just want to brush up on your skills, you can take skating lessons at the Discovery Green ice rink.
Tips for visiting the rink
Choose a cooler day – hot days can cause the rink to be closed for some time.
In the event of a closure, all guests holding tickets will be refunded their money.
Be sure to wear socks and mittens and dress in layers to stay warm on the rink.
Christmas Things to do near Discovery Green Ice Skating Rink
There are many holiday themed activities nearby.
See the stunning Christmas trees at George R. Brown Convention Center or see the holiday lights on Kinder Lake.
As the temperature starts to dip, there’s no better way to enjoy the winter weather than by strapping on a pair of ice skates and glide across the frozen glassy surface of an outdoor ice rink.
And there’s no outdoor ice rink more magical than the one at Discovery Green in downtown Houston.
Which is your favorite ice rink in Houston? Let us know below.