With the brutal winter still upon us, we're reminded that with every cloud comes a silver lining. Yes, the succession of storms has buried the northeast, snarled travel and even reached its icy fingers into the south. But it's also extended the season for our favorite winter activity: ice skating.
And thanks to each of these five ice rinks, this winter provides the perfect opportunity to keep gliding until spring. Whether from feet above a glitzy city or in the midst of an ancient royal palace, they bring plenty of thrills (and hopefully not too many spills).
Boston: Rotunda Rink
One of Boston's best assets is its striking architectural skyline, and when sights of the Boston Harbor are thrown into view, visitors and Bostonians alike become completely awed.
These splendid visions are just some of the delights ice skaters of the Rotunda Rink can look forward to while slipping and sliding on this block of ice that provides 2,500 square feet of space until Feb. 28. Just make sure you hold onto your partner's hand tightly when looking up because once you are skating under the Rowes Wharf's stunning arch, which partially hovers above the rink, you'll also see an impressive display of Boston's structural design.
Canada: Rideau Canal Skateway
In the summer the Rideau Canal may be dominated by passing ships, but in the winter it transforms into the Rideau Canal Skateway and proudly comes in first place as the world's largest natural rink.
On any given day, visitors from Canada and beyond enjoy bobbing and weaving in between commuters and leisurely skaters while quenching their appetites from hours of skating at the array of snack stations posted along the rink.
With the canal doubling as an UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic site, skaters are invited to glide in the country's rich traditions; especially during February at Winterlude which floods Rideau Canal Skateway with celebrators every year.
Puerto Rico: Aguadilla Ice Skating Rink Arena
Sipping a tropical drink while lounging on the beach is just one of the recreational activities Puerto Rico has in store. But if you prefer to beat the heat, there's always room to cool off at the Aguadilla Ice Skating Arena, which is open every day.
In fact, no other destination in the Caribbean allows guests to put on a pair of ice skates and playfully spin on ice, which makes Puerto Rico the best place to pack your sea legs as well as your skating legs.
London: Somerset House Ice Rink
Thanks to the Somerset House providing a historic backdrop, the Somerset House Ice Rink is London's premier ice skating spot. Centuries ago many famous names graced its halls, including Princess Elizabeth and Oliver Cromwell.
However, you do not have to be a royal guest to receive a special invitation to this 18th century residence since the grand courtyard allows both experienced and amateur skaters to break the ice. If you're looking to capture a bit of British history with outdoor fun, then you'll want to skate under the stars while the Somerset House showers you in antiquity.
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