Show off your most impressive figure skating moves at Ober Gatlinburg’s Ice Skating rink, where fun on the ice is always in style. This 140 X 75 foot space serves as the centerpiece of Ober’s vast mall. Like the rest of the enclosed mall, the rink is open year-round. Regardless of the weather conditions outside, you’re welcome to strap on a pair of skates and enjoy a bit of winter fun whenever you desire.
Ober’s rink appeals to skaters of all ages and levels.
A handrail is situated around the rink’s perimeter to ensure that novice skaters feel completely secure as they navigate the space on wobbly legs. More experienced skaters will appreciate the sheer amount of space available in the rink, which has proven large enough to successfully host Ice Skating Institute team competitions and even the skating competition for the Special Olympics. The rink’s size and year-round access make it a popular spot among the area’s most talented skaters, who gather to practice their axels and toe loops or show off for one another. Even if you’re reluctant to hit the ice, you’ll definitely want to stop by to check out the talent on display.
Figure skating is a blast, of course, but it’s by no means the only ice-based activity available at Ober Gatlinburg. In addition to a vast skating rink, Ober is home to ice bumper cars. Equipped with wheels and motors, these colorful tubes allow you to sit back and relax without fear of falling — or zoom around in true bumper fashion, if you see fit. Granted a full third of the space on the rink, the bumpers receive plenty of room to move about, but not so much to take away from the iconic bumper car experience. The bumpers are particularly popular among groups of children, who enjoy maneuvering on the ice with the assistance of their brightly-colored cars.
Whether you prefer to show off your figure skating moves or spin around in a unique ice bumper car, you’ll enjoy beating the heat at Ober’s indoor rink. Take a moment to experience the best elements of a completely different season before you return to the great outdoors. Of course, winter visits are also highly recommended. During the cold season, Ober allows you to escape wind and sleet as you celebrate the holidays or simply make the most of a beloved winter activity. No matter when you visit, you’ll make treasured memories on the ice.
Insider Tips:
-Don’t worry if you are unable to bring your own skates; the rink’s skating fee grants you access to a pair of high-quality rental skates. You will, however, want to bring a pair of socks if possible. If you arrive in sandals, you’ll be asked to purchase a pair of socks before you enter the skating rink.
-Tandem rides are available on the ice bumper cars, although restrictions may apply depending on the participants’ combined weight. Children between the ages of 3 and 6 are required to ride with an adult.