Unfortunately for all of us who can’t afford a condo in Florida to stay in during the winter months, there is absolutely nothing we can do to escape three long months of Mother Nature’s physical abuse. The whipper winds numb our face, crack our toes and fingers, and transform us all into these hermit-like creatures who only brave the cold when the lunch-time nicotine craving can’t be postponed a minute more.

Winter sucks, but let’s not waste any more time complaining about it.

With cold comes ice and with ice comes the perfect opportunity to glide across water while holding mittens with your boo (or keeping your three-year-old from knocking his front teeth out).

Here’s where to ice skate, people, get out and do it!

Outdoor

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Blendon Woods

4265 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus

This 0.4-acre skating pond is located in the scenic Blendon Woods Metro Park.

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Battelle Darby Metro Parks

3711 Gardner Road, Georgesville

This other metro park pond is also open and ready to earn some blade marks.

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The Columbus Blue Jackets Winter Park

230 West St, Columbus

From February 2 through February 25, an outdoor ice rink will be open in the heart of downtown Columbus. Parents, enjoy your child’s splendor from the warmth of a heated tent. CBJ fans, turn out on January 31 to see the team take the ice for a brief open practice.

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Indoor

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The Chiller

Multiple locations

Get in out of the wind at any of Chiller’s four indoor locations. Daily public skating times, free wi-fi, and group rates available.

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Ohio State University Ice Rink

Skate on the same frozen water as the OSU Hockey teams. Maybe some of the talent will rub off on your kid who’s pushing a chair right now. Limited public skating times.

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Unmute