# Where to Go Ice Skating in Elmhurst, IL Source: https://heyelmhurst.com/ice-skating/ Published: 2026-01-06 Updated: 2026-01-10 Author: Amara Andrew --- There’s something magical about outdoor ice skating in the winter; the crisp air, the sound of blades gliding across frozen water, the rosy cheeks and laughter echoing across the park. And right here in Elmhurst, Eldridge Park transforms into a winter wonderland when the temperatures drop and the pond freezes over! - **Where to Go Ice Skating in Elmhurst** - ****Eldridge Park: More Than Just Skating**** - **Eldridge Park Ice Skating FAQ** ## Where to Go Ice Skating in Elmhurst ![Hey Elmhurst! - Where to Go Ice Skating in Elmhurst](https://heyelmhurst.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Hey-Elmhurst-Where-to-Go-Ice-Skating-in-Elmhurst-003-1024x701.jpg) When the ice is thick enough, **Eldridge Lagoon** at Eldridge Park becomes Elmhurst’s winter gathering place! Surrounded by tons of trees, the lagoon is the perfect size. It’s large enough that you never feel crowded, yet small enough to keep an eye on your kids (or friends!) from anywhere. ![Hey Elmhurst! - Where to Go Ice Skating in Elmhurst](https://heyelmhurst.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Hey-Elmhurst-Where-to-Go-Ice-Skating-in-Elmhurst-002-1024x668.jpg) And the best part is it’s outdoor skating the old-fashioned way; no admission fees, no rental counters. Just you, your skates, and the frozen lagoon. Parking is right next to the lagoon, so you’re on the ice within minutes of arriving. My favorite part, though, has to be the small island in the middle of the lagoon. It’s a tiny, private world at the center, like a little adventure within the adventure. ## **Winter Activities at Eldridge Park: Sledding, Walking Trails & More** ![](https://heyelmhurst.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Hey-Elmhurst-Where-to-Go-Ice-Skating-in-Elmhurst-005-1024x655.jpg) The fun thing about Eldridge Park is that it isn’t just about ice skating (though Eldridge Lagoon certainly steals the show when conditions are right). At **42.79 acres**, this is one of Elmhurst’s largest parks, which means there’s room for all kinds of winter activities. The park actually has **two separate playgrounds**—one along Spring Road and one along Commonwealth Lane—making it perfect for families with kids of different ages. Cross the bridge (built in 1983 across Salt Creek, connecting the east and west sides of the park) and you’ll discover one of**Elmhurst’s best sledding hills** on the north side. It’s one of 3 lit hills in Elmhurst, so you can sled after dark, which is especially magical after fresh snowfall. A **walking path winds around the perimeter** of the park, serving as a link to the Salt Creek Greenway Trail. It’s perfect for a peaceful winter stroll between activities or when you need a break from the action. The park also features sports fields (including artificial turf for soccer), basketball courts, tennis courts, roller hockey court, and even an ADA-accessible canoe launch on Salt Creek (for when the weather warms up!). And soon, the park will have **heated restroom facilities**, so you can stay longer, warm up when needed, and keep the winter fun going without cutting your visit short! ![](https://heyelmhurst.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Hey-Elmhurst-Where-to-Go-Ice-Skating-in-Elmhurst-004-1024x662.jpg) ## Eldridge Park **Ice Skating FAQ** ****Is the ice safe for skating at Eldridge Park today?**** Always check the posted flag at the park entrance before stepping onto the ice: 🟢 **Green Flag = Safe to Skate** (ice is 8+ inches thick)\ 🔴 **Red Flag = DO NOT SKATE** (stay off completely) **The ice must be at least 8 inches thick for safe skating.** Even if the lagoon looks frozen, always verify the flag. Ice thickness varies across different areas and conditions change with temperature. **Pro tip:** Call the Elmhurst Park District at **630-993-8900** to confirm ice conditions before heading out. ****What should I bring for ice skating in Elmhurst?**** You can bring whatever you’d normally bring ice skating, but here’s a short list of what I recommend! - ✅ Ice skates (no rentals on-site) - ✅ Warm winter clothing (and dress in layers!) - ✅ Gloves or mittens - ✅ Hat and scarf - ✅ Hot chocolate (or tea or coffee!) in a thermos - ✅ Extra socks in case your feet get wet - ✅ Snacks for energy ****When is the best time to go ice skating at Eldridge Park?**** Ice skating is typically available **January through February** after extended cold snaps. **Best times to visit:** - **Mid-morning (10am-noon):** Fewer crowds, fresh ice - **Early afternoon (1-3pm):** Warmest temperatures - **Weekdays:** Far less crowded than weekends **Pro tip:** Call the Elmhurst Park District at 630-993-8900 to confirm ice conditions before heading out. ****What other winter activities are at Eldridge Park?**** Even when skating isn’t available, Eldridge Park offers: - **Lighted sledding hill** on the north side (night sledding!) - **Two playgrounds** (Spring Road and Commonwealth Lane) - **Walking paths** connecting to Salt Creek Greenway Trail - **Sports fields** and courts Check out my complete Elmhurst Sledding Guide for more details! ****Where can I warm up after ice skating in Elmhurst?**** Spring Road is just minutes away with these perfect spots: **Pour Destino** – Coffee, hot chocolate, wine, and cocktails\ **Lezza** – Italian baked goods and cappuccino\ **Phase 3 Brewing Company** – Family-friendly brewery\ **Bottle Theory** – Craft beer taproom with full menu ## **More Elmhurst Spots to Check Out This Winter!** - Sledding in Elmhurst: 4 Hills to Check Out! - Free Things to Do in Elmhurst - Best Bars & Restaurants on Spring Road **Bundle up, lace up those skates, and discover outdoor winter skating at Eldridge Park. With sledding, walking paths, and Spring Road just minutes away, it’s everything you need for a perfect Elmhurst winter day**!