I have great news for all fans of winter coziness. After a year’s absence, the iconic ice rink at Museumplein in Amsterdam is back! Starting November 15, people of all ages can skate daily on one of the city’s most beautiful squares. In my opinion, this is the ultimate place to meet this winter with friends (with kids), family, or for a date to enjoy a fun outdoor activity. And the best news? The Ice Rink at Museumplein provides all winter skating fun and is open until February 2, 2025!
© Ice Rink Museumplein
Ice Rink at Museumplein: A Winter Must-Do in Amsterdam
Did you know that people have been skating at Museumplein since 1864? This long tradition of outdoor skating was once initiated by the Amsterdamsche IJsclub, and now Stichting Ice*Amsterdam is breathing new life into this historic initiative.
How fun skating with kids is, and how it brings people together, is something I experienced during my recent trip to New York, where the ice rink is already up. My son absolutely loved skating and having fun on the ice, and now he’s thrilled that this winter-long ice rink is coming right in front of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam too. For those just as excited, you can buy a 10-ride pass or even a season pass for the Ice Rink at Museumplein.
More than Skating: Enjoy Drinks and Winter Treats at the Ice Rink at Museumplein
Need a break from skating? Or how about lunch, drinks, or a bite to eat in the evening? There’s also a restaurant at the rink! After a few hours of skating, nothing is better than warming up with a hot chocolate or a glass of mulled wine. The restaurant next to the ice rink offers an extensive winter menu with options like cheese fondue in various flavors, juicy burgers, or warm apple strudel.
Who will you go skating and dining with? You can easily reserve a table for lunch, drinks, or dinner on the website. Just want drinks? There’s also a cozy food chalet with an outdoor bar. There, you can order all sorts of winter drinks and snacks from a smaller menu. For the kids, they even serve delicious pancakes!
TIP: Want to plan a fun outing with colleagues this winter? There are different packages available for companies, including a curling competition!
Christmas Vacation Tip: Skating Lessons for Kids
The Ice Rink at Museumplein offers activities for the little ones too. Every Wednesday, there’s toddler skating from 9:00–11:00 AM so even the youngest can learn to skate safely. A supervisor can join on the ice (in shoes) for free!
For kids ages 5 to 12, there are skating lessons during the Christmas vacation. Perfect for kids who want to improve their skating skills or try it for the first time. A course consists of three one-hour lessons and costs €60, including skate rental. The kids’ skating course is available on December 27, 28, and 29 or January 2, 3, and 4, with two time slots: 9:30–10:30 AM and 10:45–11:45 AM.
More info & book skating lessons
In the December period, Museumplein becomes even more magical. From December 13 to 26, you can combine skating with a visit to the Christmas Village Amsterdam, the city’s Christmas market. I can’t wait to stroll through the stalls with Christmas gifts and treats. It’s Christmas magic at Museumplein!
Ice Rink Museumplein: Everything You Need to Know
Dates: The ice rink is open daily for visitors from November 15 to February 2.
Rink Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday – 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday to Sunday – 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Toddler Skating: every Wednesday (except during Christmas vacation) from 9:00–11:00 AM.
Kids’ Skating Lessons: December 27, 28, and 29 or January 2, 3, and 4. More info, times, and bookings >>
Entry Fee:
- €8 with your own skates (note: speed skates and clap skates are not allowed)
- €14.50 including skate rental
- €17.50 including skate rental and a hot chocolate with whipped cream
Opening Hours of the Ice Rink Dining Options:
- The Restaurant: open daily from 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM. Good to know: the kitchen is open from 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
- The Outdoor Bar: open Monday to Thursday from 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM and Friday to Sunday from 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
I suggest sharing this article in your friends’ WhatsApp group and planning an evening of skating, drinks, and food at the Ice Rink on Museumplein together.
Have fun!
© Ice Rink Museumplein
TIP: Do you love Christmas markets as much as I do? I’ve listed the must-visit Christmas markets for several destinations! Check out the shortlists here: visit the best Christmas markets in the Netherlands, discover the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany & enjoy the festive atmosphere at the coziest Christmas markets in Belgium.
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With love,
Anne
