Best Skating Rinks (Ice and Roller) in the Triangle
Whether your kid wants to glide on ice like a figure skater or jam on quads like it is 1985, the Triangle has solid options for both. Here is every skating rink worth visiting, plus what you need to know about lessons, public skate times, and which rinks work best for beginners.
Ice Skating Rinks
Polar Ice House (Multiple Locations)
Polar Ice operates rinks in Cary (on Buck Jones Road) and Raleigh (at Wake Competition Center). These are the Triangle's primary ice skating facilities. Public skate sessions run about $10-12 for admission plus $4 for skate rental. Sessions last about 90 minutes. Both locations offer learn-to-skate programs starting around $80-100 for a multi-week session. The Cary location tends to be less crowded during weekday public skates. Ages 3+ with the little double-runner trainer skates. Walker aids are available for about $5.Wake Competition Center (Raleigh)
The Wake Competition Center on Blue Ridge Road houses one of the Polar Ice rinks and is also where many youth hockey programs are based. Public skate hours vary by season since hockey leagues and figure skating clubs get priority. Check their calendar before driving over. The facility is newer and well-maintained.Seasonal Outdoor Rinks
During winter (November through February), several pop-up ice rinks appear around the Triangle. The Winterfest rink in downtown Raleigh at Red Hat Amphitheater is the most popular. Tickets run about $14-16 including skate rental. Lines get long on weekend evenings and during school breaks, so go on a weekday afternoon if possible. Fun for a one-time outing, but the ice quality does not compare to a permanent rink.Roller Skating Rinks
United Skates of America (Raleigh)
United Skates on Capital Boulevard is the Triangle's most well-known roller rink. It is an old-school rink with disco lights, a DJ, and a snack bar. Admission is about $8-12 depending on the session, and skate rental is $4-5. They run Tot Time sessions on weekday mornings for young kids, and Friday and Saturday night sessions are popular with older kids and teens. The facility is dated but has real charm. Ages 3+ for Tot Time.Jellybeans Super Skate (Cary)
Jellybeans on Buck Jones Road in Cary is arguably the better-maintained roller rink in the area. Similar pricing to United Skates at $8-12 admission plus skate rental. They have regular sessions, learn-to-skate nights, and themed events. The floor is smooth and well-kept. My kids prefer Jellybeans for the overall experience. Ages 4+.Branch Entertainment Center (Durham)
Branch in Durham is primarily known for bowling but also has a roller rink. It is a good option if you are on the Durham side of the Triangle. Pricing is comparable to other rinks.Lessons and Learn-to-Skate Programs
Ice skating lessons: Both Polar Ice locations offer group lessons through their Learn to Skate USA programs. These follow the national curriculum and run in 6-8 week sessions. Expect to pay $80-120 per session. Private lessons are available at $30-50 per half hour.
Roller skating lessons: Jellybeans and United Skates both offer learn-to-skate sessions. These are less structured than ice skating programs but effective for beginners. Check each rink's schedule for specific lesson times.
Tips for First-Time Skaters
How to Choose
For first-time ice skaters: Polar Ice Cary during a weekday public skate. Less crowded, walker aids available, and a good learn-to-skate program.
For first-time roller skaters: Jellybeans in Cary for the better-maintained rink and friendlier atmosphere for beginners.
For teens and older kids: United Skates Friday night sessions for the social scene, or Polar Ice for serious skating development.
For a special outing: The seasonal Winterfest rink downtown is magical for a holiday outing, even if the ice is not competition-quality.
My overall pick for families new to skating: Jellybeans in Cary for roller skating and Polar Ice Cary for ice skating. Both are clean, well-run, and welcoming to beginners.
More Guides You'll Love
Mom Tip
Got a tip about this topic? We're building a community of Triangle moms who share their insider knowledge. Stay tuned.