Where to Go Skating in Moscow – Top Ice-Skating Spots

Start at Gorky Park on friday evenings for the smoothest ice and easy access. The official rink is open from 12:00 and till 21:00, with gear rental offers and extra sessions during holidays, making it a must-visit for first-timers.

Gorky Park Ice Rink is considered the best starting point for families and newcomers, thanks to a forgiving surface and clear signposting. It runs from 10:00 to 20:00 most days, till 21:30 on friday, and holidays can add sessions. Rentals are offered on site, and the website provides current promos and time slots.

Sokolniki Park offers a calmer option with wider lanes for all ages. It operates through the main skating months, with time slots from 10:00 to 20:30 on weekdays and till 22:00 on weekends; rental gear is available, with occasional zero-deposit promos. Here, you can combine skating with a stroll to repin and yusupov landmarks–look for signs to guide you.

VDNKh Ice Rink provides a large surface and evening light shows, a favorite for groups. The season runs from november through march, with open hours 12:00–22:00. During holidays, extended sessions appear. источник of tips notes reliable service and easy parking; signs point toward repin and yusupov directions for a full day out.

Where to go next is easy to decide: check the website, filter by time and place, and plan a loop that suits your schedule. If you want a quick plan, start here again and then pick the pace you prefer. You can combine a rink visit with a break in a nearby cafe near repin and yusupov zones.

Time, place, and show – Moscow offers several options. Where you go depends on your mood and the holidays. Revisit the official site to confirm hours again before you head out; these top spots welcome you again and again.

Overview of Moscow’s Best Ice-Skating Spots and Sokolniki Park Rink

Start with Sokolniki Park Rink as your first stop: metro access is quick, and the ice is reliably frozen. The opening season runs from November through March, with sessions scheduled most days from 10:00 to 22:00, making it easy to fit skating into your holidays. Youll find skates prepared on site in a full range of sizes, and staff can help with basic lessons or tips for beginners. The address at the entrance is posted clearly, so you can navigate quickly if youll be arriving by public transport. Skating runs across several months of winter, offering a calm escape above the city bustle.

Beyond Sokolniki, the most popular spots include Gorky Park Ice Rink, Park Pobedy’s natural rink, and VDNKh’s large ice arena. In the evening, lighting and a thoughtful layout create a festive mood, drawing russians and visitors after work. whats worth knowing is that each site offers different rental prices and time slots, with rubles-based payments at the counter. If you want a quick circuit, choose the Gorky Park rink; for a family-friendly vibe, Sokolniki remains hard to beat. There are ones perfect for beginners and others for more experienced skaters.

Notable exhibitions run during holidays; youll see ice-sculpture displays and skating demonstrations that russians and visitors alike would not miss. The surroundings showcase nature in winter, with trees lit up and the air crisp. In Borodino and other towns around Moscow, parks host shorter ice sessions that would make a nice day trip after a skate. The overall experience has been popular and would become a family tradition for many. Oriental lanterns and city lights add a world of wintry charm to some venues, enhancing the evening atmosphere.

To plan efficiently, check the official opening times, map the route by metro, and note the address for each rink. On holidays, arrive early to secure a good lane, since the most popular sessions fill quickly. Most venues offer lockers, skate rentals, and basic lessons; expect to pay in rubles. For up-to-date ice conditions, a robostation panel at the gate provides quick updates. When time allows, combine skating with a quick walk through nearby nature areas, or a post-skate visit to a nearby oriental cafe or market for a warm drink. If you liked Sokolniki, you would likely want to explore Gorky Park or VDNKh next; both have long-standing popularity and a variety of events held through the season.

Sokolniki Park Ice Rink: hours, pricing, skate rental

Go early for crisp ice and quick entry; this spot has become a reliable choice for skaters who want a friendly, efficient session with easy access for a team or a family. The atmosphere blends eastern Moscow charm with natural surroundings, quite beautiful above the river bank, and often a source of good vibes for beginners and pros alike.

Stunden: The rink operates daily from 10:00 to 22:00, with last admission at 21:30. In peak periods, some evenings extend till 23:00, but always check the updated schedule on the official источник. Times are posted so you could plan around events, exhibitions, or championships that attract larger crowds. If you went with a large group or a school team, aim for the earlier slots to avoid crowds.

Pricing (approximate, may vary seasonally):

• Admission: Adult 500 RUB; Child (7–12) 350 RUB; Under 7 free with a paying adult
• Skate rental: 450 RUB per pair; sizes 25–46 available
• Helmet rental: 150 RUB
• Locker: 100 RUB (deposit required)
• Group discount: available for parties of 15+ skaters with prior notice

Skate rental: Rental skates are kept in good condition and sharpened regularly. Staff can help you select the right size and adjust laces quickly. For a small group, rent in advance to secure a coordinated time; for a large team, coordinate a dedicated court block and assign a team captain to streamline entry and exit. Sizes span from youth to adult, and you can switch to a different size between sessions if needed with the staff’s approval.

Tips for a smooth visit: arrive 15 minutes before your session, bring gloves and a warm layer, and use the river-facing side of the rink for a scenic warm-up stroll. If you are from petersburg or vladimir, you’ll notice the Russian winter spirit across generations of skaters who have gone from beginner circles to exhibition routines. The court-like setup and open space make it easy for coaches to arrange a quick practice, then a short on-ice exhibition, if the schedule allows. The atmosphere supports both quiet practice and crowded weekend sessions, giving you plenty of time to improve until late in the evening.

Nearby conveniences include hot drinks at the snack kiosks and easy transit access for a quick return to the city center. Before you head out, verify the latest hours and price changes on the official source and истоочник, since updates can occur to accommodate events or championships. This rink is a reliable option for a natural, enjoyable skating experience in the middle of Moscow’s bustle, with options that suit both large groups and small parties alike.

Gorky Park Ice Rink: best times and lane rules

Go for a late-morning session: 9:30–11:00 on weekdays and 10:00–12:00 on weekends; during january and february the rink is filled with skaters, so youll want to claim a lane early.

These lane rules keep order on the ice: use the inner lanes for slower skaters and families; outer lanes are for faster activity; pass on the left and give space to beginners.

When crowds grow, move to the right edge when entering or exiting to avoid collisions; these practices help you keep a steady pace without interrupting others.

The rink sits inside Gorky Park, with easy access from the nearby station; when locals went there, they favored a quick break at cafes nearby. The glassy surface opens to the public and serves both adults and younger skaters, blending nature with urban energy. The smooth ice also works like a court for drills and skill practice.

Season notes: in january and february weekends the crowd grows, mirroring frozen weather and northern daylight patterns; russians and visitors share the ice like the soviet-era pastime, a social activity that remains popular among russians. The rink is open daily during the season, and held events on select dates can add to the atmosphere.

Practical tips: wear gloves, bring a helmet for kids, and start with a short warm-up on the sidelines before entering the thickest traffic. If you went there with friends, you can grab a snack at nearby cafes and plan a post-skate stroll through the park, which suits both casual activity and serious practice.

VDNKh Ice Rink: facilities, accessibility, and crowd tips

Purchase tickets online for a timed hour slot to avoid queues and guarantee ice time. Your purchased ticket is scanned at entry, so print it or have it on your phone.

Facilities:

• Main rink and a small warm-up surface; covers along the edges protect skaters and keep the ice safer for beginners.
• Skate rental on site with affordable options; cheap gear bundles available for families or groups.
• Locker rooms, changing areas, restrooms, and a cafe near the central corridor for quick breaks.
• Bright, even lighting across the ice reduces glare and helps beginners spot every turn.
• Seating areas and a viewing zone for spectators; covers shield you from wind between sessions.
• First-aid station, a small shop, and displays about the park’s 20th-century pavilions; exhibitions like these offer a quick cultural break between skates.
• Nature-themed spaces nearby and exhibition areas provide a pleasant add-on to your pastime.
• Information in multiple languages helps travelers from russia and abroad navigate the site.

Accessibility:

• Entrance via eastern gate with ramp, barrier-free routes to the rink, and elevator access where needed.
• Accessible restrooms near the main lobby; tactile signs and staff assistance in Russian and English.
• Parking near the main entrance and convenient drop-off points for visitors with mobility needs.

Crowd tips:

• Best times to skate: opt for weekday mornings or till mid-afternoon to dodge festival crowds; even on busy festival weekends, mornings stay calmer.
• Book online, confirm your slot, and arrive 15 minutes early to locate your lane and equipment.
• Plan a post-skate tour: izmailovsky district gateways lead you toward central pavilions, with stops at gorky avenues, the repin exhibition space, Hermitage-themed zones, and nearby museums and theaters; exhibitions often run seasonally.
• Keep your bag light and use staff-provided covers to shield gear between sessions.
• Budget option: cheap rental packages and a quick tour to add value; many visitors pair skating with a museum or exhibition stop.
• Safety and courtesy: follow posted rules, stay aware of faster skaters, and return skates to the desk after use.
• Youll find clear signs in English and Russian at the eastern entrance, plus friendly staff to answer questions.

Indoor options: Megasport Arena and other indoor rinks

Megasport Arena is the best indoor option for reliable ice and long skating hours, especially when weather would push you outside. Here in moscows, its iced surface stays reliably frozen, the staff help you with rental skates, and the location is easy to reach from the central station. If you’re after a great after-work session, it’s a solid choice for adults and beginners alike. While you plan, you can rely on Megasport to keep the pace smooth and the rink well maintained.

Found here are reliable indoor options that keep skating accessible regardless of temperature. The next best bets include the gorky facility and the Sokolniki Center ice rink, both with well-kept ice and rental gear. The gorky venue has a cultural, festive atmosphere, with public sessions during february and around festival periods. The Sokolniki rink is popular with families and groups and offers lessons for beginners as well as open sessions for adults.

Next, consider the indoor rink near a central station district, where the location is convenient for a friday skate with friends. People come here after work, hours are posted on the official page, and rental gear is available in a range of sizes. Adults appreciate the smooth ice, with the surface iced neatly and staff ready to assist, so them can become comfortable quickly.

For those seeking a festival vibe, many venues host seasonal events that feel festive even when it’s cold outside. A february festival often features themed music and lighting, plus oriental snacks after a few laps. What’s held next varies by venue, so check the schedule and sign up for group sessions to come with friends and teammates.

Practical tips: arrive early to secure rental skates, wear lightweight gloves, and verify hours before you go. If you come during friday crowds, expect a brief queue at the rental desk, but you’ll be greeted by friendly staff. This approach would let adults and teens enjoy a reliable winter pastime, and some venues even offer short lessons to help you become comfortable on the ice. Skating here connects you to the world of Moscow’s winter culture.

Transport and access: how to reach each spot from central Moscow

Park Kultury metro is the fastest route to the central rinks in Gorky Park. From central Moscow, ride to Park Kultury station, exit toward the river, and walk about 12 minutes to the Gorky Park ice spaces; morning sessions start early and open into the evening. This first option is cheap and convenient for those skating with kids, with nearby rooms to rest between glides and signs that guide you from the station into the centre of the park.

To reach the eastern Sokolniki Park ice rink, take the metro to Sokolniki station. Enter the park, follow the main avenues into the centre, and walk 8–10 minutes to the rink by the ponds and spaces; those rinks again offer a great mix of morning and late-afternoon sessions, with prepared paths and iced surfaces that stay open for open skating throughout the day.

For VDNKh, hop to VDNKh metro station and walk through the grand spaces toward the central pavilions. The venues are clearly signposted, with a short 6–9 minute stroll to the ice pads; the surface glints like silver in sun, and there’s often a light crowd that keeps the atmosphere lively. There’s zero complexity for first-time visitors, and nearby cafés make it easy to combine a flight of stairs into a full skating morning or afternoon.

источник: городской портал. If you want Whats the fastest route on a given morning, check live times at the stations or ask staff for directions to nearby rooms and open areas – these routes are designed to be practical for beginners and seasoned skaters alike, with easy transfers and nearby metro lines that connect central Moscow to the eastern and northern spots.

Gear and safety: renting vs bringing skates, clothing, safety tips

Rent on site for a quick night session if you’re short on space; bring your own skates if you want a long tour of Moscow rinks and a precise fit.

At main stations, rental lines move quickly till late evening. Expect 300-600 RUB per hour for skates; helmets often cost 100-200 RUB. In museums districts you’ll find staff who can help with sizes and returns. Many visitors appreciate sampling different models, but this option is considered practical by those who visit with family. This approach lets you focus on the ice rather than gear, and cheap add-ons like sock rentals or extra gloves keep costs down for those who stay for multiple sessions.

Dress prepared for a chilly rink: base layer with moisture-wicking fabric, a mid-layer fleece, and a windproof outer shell. Wear gloves, a hat, and socks that stay put inside the boot. For a January night tour, ensure you have enough warmth and freedom of movement. Lighting at night can vary, so choose bright outerwear and keep a small headlamp in your bag if you’ll explore dim station areas. After skating, head to nearby cafes for a warm drink; these spots often offer music and festive chatter beside a soviet-era plaza, enhancing the mood for visitors.

Safety first: tie laces snugly, verify the correct size, and inspect the boot for cracks. If you’re new to ice, wear a helmet and add wrist guards and knee pads for extra protection. Keep scarves and loose ends away from blades; practice safe falls and getting up quickly. Stay on main paths until you gain confidence, and respect other skaters who are still learning. If you’re unsure, ask the department staff for guidance on routes and timing to head back to the station.