Skate Away: Downtown Boston Rink Offers Winter Fun

Skate Away: Boston Ice Rink Offers Winter Fun

By Tom Richardson

The Rink at 401 Park in Boston's Fenway neighborhood offers family fun through the winter.

Of all the outdoor activities covered by Explore New England, ice skating has managed to fly under the radar. Yet skating deserves its due, as it’s another fun way to enjoy the winter season and stay active throughout the region. Plus, it doesn’t require a lot of costly equipment.

Those seeking outdoor ice time in the heart of Boston can find it in the Fenway neighborhood at the seasonal, outdoor skating venue called the Rink at 401 Park presented by REI. Located right outside the REI Co-op Boston store, Trillium Brewery, and Time Out Market, the rink is a great place for skaters of all skill levels to enjoy the ice in an outdoor setting. It’s open from late November through March 5, weather permitting. To reserve a skate time, rent skates, and purchase tickets, click here.

The Rink at 401 Park is ideal for families and those learning to skate.

REI Co-op (an ENE sponsor) is the presenting partner of the Rink at 401 Park, and offers Co-op members free skate sharpening services** through February at its adjacent Boston store location. REI staff are available to offer advice and help with skate fitting, and skates are for sale either in-store (while supplies last at the Boston location only) or online.

Through the skating season, REI will also offer rinkside membership activations, giveaways, demos, and fun events. This season’s lineup includes:

Saturday, January 14 & Saturday, January 28, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Skis or snowboard need a tune-up? Join REI techs rinkside for a free base ski or snowboard wax and inspection. There will be special giveaways and fun activities for everyone to enjoy. Enter to win a pair of K2 ice skates (various size options will be available)!

Saturday, January 28 @ 9 a.m.

HOKA x REI Winter Run Club. There are options for a 2- or 4-mile jog and participants will have the opportunity to test out a pair of HOKAs. All ages and abilities welcome.

Saturday, February 11 @ 9 a.m.

HOKA x REI Winter Run Club. There are options for a 2- or 4-mile jog and participants will have the opportunity to test out a pair of HOKAs. All ages and abilities welcome.

Saturday, February 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Join REI Co-op rinkside for a free basic bike tune-up and inspection. Look for the green REI tent outside of the skate rental tent for a chance to enter to win our sweepstakes for a $350 REI gift card and for an opportunity to win prizes on the spot.

REI Co-op will offer free ski and snowboard tuning at the rink on January 28.

Visit REI online for additional information about the above events and more.

The REI Boston Store hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Click here for more store information and to plan your visit.

** One skate sharpening service is available per member per visit and proof of membership is required. Upon inspection, REI reserves the right to reject providing ice skate sharpening services based on the condition of the equipment. Equipment must be clean and free of rust and damage to qualify. Skate sharpening services are only available at REI Co-op Boston and offered through the end of February.

General Rink Info

The Rink at 401 Park is located adjacent to Trillium Brewery and REI Co-op's Fenway store.

Of course, the Rink at 401 Park isn’t the only public skating option in New England. Here’s a list of some other rinks (and some ponds) throughout Massachusetts and New England. By the way, if you are considering skating on a natural lake or pond, be sure to exercise caution and seek local advice on ice conditions before venturing out. Click here for more ice safety tips and advice.

New England Ice Skating Rinks

Massachusetts

The MA Dept. of Conservation & Recreation manages over 40 ice rinks throughout the Commonwealth. Visit the DCR site for details.

Skate Away: Boston Ice Rink Offers Winter Fun

New England Ice Skating Rinks

Massachusetts

Connecticut

Maine

New Hampshire

Rhode Island

Vermont