Glide, Laugh, Repeat: A Family Guide to Ice Skating at Elm Street Plaza (Downtown Cincinnati)

If you’re looking for a magical, kid-friendly winter outing that mixes big-city sparkle with small-town cozy, the new ice rink at Elm Street Plaza is a can’t-miss stop this season. Families will find a bigger rink, brand-new skate rentals, warming tents, rentable igloos, and pergolas with fire pits — all tucked into Cincinnati’s fresh two-acre public plaza next to the downtown convention center.

Whether your kids are wobbling on their first pair or your teen wants an evening skate with city lights in the background, this one’s built for memory-making.

Why Elm Street Plaza is perfect for families

Elm Street Plaza was designed as a modern civic space with family-friendly amenities in mind. The skating area is larger than the previous Fountain Square downtown rink, which means more room for beginner skaters (and fewer accidental collisions). The rink operator provides skate aids and push-along “ride” aids that help toddlers and nervous newbies feel safe and included.

There’s a big warming tent to thaw fingers and mittens, plus igloos and pergolas available to reserve if you want a private, warm spot to take a break or celebrate a birthday.

Know Before You Go (hours, cost, rentals)

• Season & dates: The UC Health Ice Rink (presented by Fifth Third Bank) is in its new Elm Street Plaza home for the 2025–2026 season — roughly mid-November through February 16th (dates and hours can shift with weather).
• Hours: Nov 22  – Dec 18
  • Monday – Wednesday: 3p – 8p
  • Thursday – Friday: 3p – 10p
  • Saturday: 9a – 10p
  • Sunday: 9a – 8p
  • Monday-Sunday: 9a – 10p
• Holiday Hours: Dec 19 – Jan 4
  • Monday-Sunday: 9a – 10p
  • The rink will be OPEN on all holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
• Jan 5  – Feb 16         
  • Monday – Wednesday: 3p – 8p
  • Thursday – Friday: 3p – 10p
  • Saturday: 9a – 10p
  • Sunday: 9a – 8p
• Price: Admission with skate rental is around $12 per person; children 5 and under skate free with a paid adult (and must be accompanied on the ice). Payment is usually card or mobile-pay only.
• Skate sizes & aids: Rentals cover a wide range of sizes for kids and adults; skate aids and traction aids are available to help little ones and stroller-walking parents.

Getting there & parking

Our top recommendation for parking is the secure parking garage at 5^th and Race Garage (84.51 building) located at 120 W. 5th Street, with entrances on both 5th and 6th Streets. It is steps away from Elm Street Plaza.

Several downtown garages are within a block or two, and the plaza’s website lists recommended garages and walking routes — a big help if you’re juggling car seats and a sled. Public transit and ride-shares also drop you close to the plaza; for the most up-to-date parking and rink status, check the plaza’s official channels before you leave.

Safety & family etiquette (quick checklist)

• All children under a certain height or age may need adult accompaniment — read posted rules before stepping on the ice.
• No street shoes on the ice; avoid loose scarves and backpack straps while skating.
• Skate rentals typically end one hour before closing; plan to arrive early for a full session.
• If someone in your group is new to skating, pick a quieter session (weekday afternoons or early morning weekend times) for a less crowded learning environment.

Tips for making it a great family day

1. Bundle up smart: Layer thin, warm clothes, water-resistant gloves, and helmets for little ones.
2. Choose a low-traffic session for beginners: Weekday afternoons or early weekend mornings are calmer.
3. Reserve an igloo or pergola for a family hub: If you’re planning a multi-hour outing or a small celebration, renting a pergola/igloo gives the kids a warm retreat and a place to stash bags and snacks.
4. Pack snacks, but plan to buy hot chocolate there: Warming tent and Pavilion Bar offer hot drinks and light bites when you need a break.
5. Use the push-along aids: For kids and adults who can’t quite balance, the ride-on aids are adorable and confidence-building.

Where to stay — family-friendly hotels near Elm Street Plaza

One of the best parts about Elm Street Plaza is how walkable it is to a cluster of downtown hotels — perfect if you want to turn skating into an overnight family escape.

• Hyatt Regency Cincinnati — A large, convention-friendly hotel just steps from the convention center and Elm Street Plaza; great for families who want easy access, on-site dining, and large rooms.
• Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza — A historic, landmark property with art-deco charm; families will appreciate spacious rooms and proximity to downtown attractions and dining.
• 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati — A boutique option that doubles as an art experience; its central location makes it an easy home base for walking to the rink and other attractions.
• Residence Inn / Homewood Suites / AC Hotel options — A range of suites and extended-stay properties are clustered in the Fountain District and Banks area — ideal for families who prefer kitchenettes and extra space
  • (Pro tip: staying downtown means you can park once and walk to the rink, restaurants, and a handful of kid-friendly museums. Book early on holiday weekends — the plaza draws big crowds.)

Other family things to do near Elm Street Plaza

Elm Street Plaza sits between the convention center and Cincinnati’s Fountain District, which makes it an excellent starting point for a full-day family itinerary.

• Fountain Square & Winterhaus: A short walk connects Elm Street Plaza with Fountain Square, which will feature its own Winterhaus tent and holiday programming.
• Children’s Museum at Union Terminal: A short drive away, the Children’s Museum (within Union Terminal) offers interactive exhibits that delight toddlers through tweens. Don’t miss Holiday Junction, a beloved holiday train display.
• Smale Riverfront Park & The Banks: Walk down to the river for playgrounds, scenic views, and weekend events; nearby restaurants make for easy family meals.
• Krohn Conservatory: Celebrate the holidays at A Festival of Ferns, featuring a botanical model of Cincinnati with classic trains, iconic landmarks, vibrant poinsettias, and a stunning array of ferns for a magical, nature-filled seasonal experience.
• Cincinnati Art Museum: During the holidays, the Cincinnati Art Museum transforms into a festive haven, offering sparkling décor, seasonal exhibits, and family-friendly activities that make every visit feel extra magical. Did we mention it is FREE to visit!
• Holiday markets and performances: Downtown Cincinnati typically hosts holiday markets, tree lightings, and kid-friendly performances — Don’t miss the Cincinnati Ballet’s Nutcracker, the holiday performances by The Cincinnati Children’s Theatre, and so many more!

Budget-savvy strategies

• Visit during off-peak hours: Weekday sessions are generally less crowded and easier on nerves for new skaters. Elm Street Plaza
• Pack snacks & flexible layers: Bring your own snacks to reduce concession spending and keep hangry meltdowns at bay.
• Look for bundled offers or family discounts: Watch Elm Street Plaza’s social pages for special events, college skate discounts, and promotional free-admission windows.

Photo ops & holiday moments

Elm Street Plaza’s modern design, the convention center façade, and holiday lighting offer beautiful backdrops for family photos. Capture the kids near the rink’s decorated trees or at the igloo — golden hour and early evening light make for especially magical shots.

Don’t forget to venture down the street to Fountain Square to snap a photo with the Christmas Tree!

Quick reminder: staff may request no mobile phone use while actively skating for safety.

Final thoughts — making it a family tradition

Elm Street Plaza has taken a beloved Cincinnati winter tradition and turned it up — more space, upgraded amenities, and family-centered features that make it easier to include everyone, from the tiniest first-time skater to grandparents who want to sip cocoa and watch.

Looking for more holiday fun and festivities in Cincinnati? Check out our CINCINNATI HOLIDAY GUIDE.

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