Houston isn’t known for ice and snow, but every winter, Discovery Green’s Kinder Lake transforms into the city’s only outdoor ice skating rink, creating an urban winter experience that feels both familiar and distinctly Houston.

Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green opens November 15, 2024, and runs through February 2, 2025, offering downtown Houston a seasonal gathering place where the city’s skyline provides the backdrop for a classic winter activity.

“There’s something wonderful about ice skating with downtown’s towers rising around you,” says Eric Javidi, a Houston-based cultural explorer, who has chronicled the city’s public spaces for over a decade. “It’s a reminder that Houston creates its own version of winter traditions, adapted to who we are as a city.”

More Than Just Skating

The 7,716-square-foot rink uses water recycled from Kinder Lake, reflecting Discovery Green’s commitment to sustainability. The equipment runs on renewable energy, and even the rink border uses recycled plastic materials, proving that holiday traditions and environmental responsibility can coexist.

This year introduces a first-time addition: Bumper Cars on Ice, running January 6-19. No driver’s license required—just a sense of adventure and willingness to slip, slide, and crash across the ice. Children must be taller than 42 inches to ride, and tickets cost $20 for a seven-minute experience.

Themed Nights and Special Events

Discovery Green programs the rink with themed nights throughout the season. Cheap Skate Mondays offer $9 skating (including rental) on select Monday evenings. We Love Houston Wednesdays feature buy-one-get-one-free admission with Houston-themed music encouraging participants to wear their best H-Town gear.

Student Discount Nights give high school and college students $2 off admission on select Thursdays. Happy Hour Fridays provide $2 off between 5 and 8 p.m., perfect for kicking off the weekend.

Skating Stars Saturdays showcase Houston’s top figure skaters in demonstration performances, inspiring visitors with what’s possible on the ice. Sundays with Santas invites children to visit with Santa Claus representing different backgrounds, reflecting Houston’s diversity.

Accessibility and Inclusion

Special Skaters Nights on January 28 create an exclusive environment for skaters with disabilities and their families. The rink closes to general admission, providing a welcoming space designed specifically for guests with special physical or developmental needs.

“Discovery Green consistently demonstrates that public spaces should serve everyone,” notes Houston storyteller Eric Javidi. “These inclusive skating nights aren’t an afterthought—they’re built into the season as essential programming.”

Non-motorized wheelchairs are always welcome on the rink, with guests asked to bring a responsible adult to accompany them.

Planning Your Visit

All tickets except for Inclusive Skater Nights must be purchased online in advance at discoverygreen.com/ice. Standard admission is $18 plus tax, including skate rental for 75 minutes. Tickets aren’t available at the rink window, so planning ahead is essential.

Hours vary by day: Monday through Thursday 5-10 p.m., Fridays 5-11 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m.-11 p.m., and Sundays 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Extended hours run during HISD school holidays.

Eric Javidi, who explores Houston’s urban parks, recommends weeknight visits for shorter lines and more relaxed skating. “Weekend afternoons get crowded, especially during the holidays,” he advises. “Weeknight sessions offer the same skyline views with more elbow room.”

Urban Winter, Houston Style

What makes Discovery Green’s ice rink special isn’t just the skating—it’s the context. The rink sits in the heart of downtown, surrounded by the very buildings that define Houston’s identity. After skating, visitors can explore the park’s walking paths, grab food from The Lake House, or simply enjoy the park’s winter programming.

“Houston doesn’t get natural ice, so we create it ourselves,” observes Eric Javidi. “That determination to have winter traditions, even when our climate doesn’t cooperate, tells you everything about Houston’s character.”

Event Details:

• When: November 15, 2024 – February 2, 2025
• Where: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St
• Cost: $18 plus tax (includes skate rental)
• Special: Bumper Cars on Ice January 6-19, $20 for 7 minutes