Without a doubt, one of the most fun things about winter around The Bend is the return of ice skating. Putting on skates and gliding across the ice is a well-loved local tradition. These are the best places around South Bend for ice skating.

Howard Park - South Bend

Any conversation about ice skating in South Bend begins with Howard Park. There's a certain kind of magic on display when the sun goes down and the Howard Park ice skating trail lights up, especially if there's a little snow coming down.

The trail features small rolling hills and soft curves. Skaters work their way around the large, ADA accessible playground while catching beautiful views the park and the city beyond. There is also an ice skating rink attached to the trail for those looking to embark on a more traditional skating experience.

Skating season begins the day after Thanksgiving and goes through early march. Visitors are encouraged to reserve their ice time online in advance. Here's a look at the 2023-24 session schedule:

  • Monday: 7 p.m. 
  • Tuesday: 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday: 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m. 
  • Thursday: 7 p.m.   
  • Friday: 3 p.m. | 5 p.m. | 7 p.m. | 9 p.m.  
  • Saturday: 11 a.m. | 1 p.m. | 3 p.m. | 5 p.m. | 7 p.m. | 9 p.m.  
  • Sunday: 11 a.m. | 1 p.m. | 3 p.m. | 5 p.m. 

Ironworks Ice Rink - Mishawaka 

Situated in downtown Mishawaka, Ironworks Ice Rink is another amazing place for skating. It's part ribbon and part traditional ice skating rink for visitors of all skill levels. 

Like Howard Park, it's best to sign up for skating online in advance to ensure your ice time. Each skate session lasts 90 minutes. Here's the session schedule for 2023-24:

  • Monday and Wednesday: 5 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. 
  • Tuesday and Thursday: 5:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. 
  • Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 11:30 a.m. | 1:45 p.m. | 4 p.m. | 6:15 p.m. | 8:30 p.m. 
    • These are also the daily hours from Dec. 23-Jan. 6 for winter break.

Ironworks Ice Rink also offers ice bumper cars and Icebyks, which are fun for all ages. 

Compton Family Ice Arena 

Ever thought about lacing up the skates inside one of the best college hockey facilities in the country? Compton Family Ice Arena at Notre Dame, home to the Fighting Irish hockey team, offers public skating from noon-1:20 p.m. most weekdays on either on the main Lefty Smith Rink or the Olympic-sized sheet. If you're unsure of the schedule, make sure to call in advance to double check.