Brenton Skating Plaza
Des Moines' enchanting outdoor ice rink, offering festive skating, concerts, and stunning skyline views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical lights and atmosphere
Brenton Skating Plaza
Best Time
Magical lights and atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Des Moines' enchanting outdoor ice rink, offering festive skating, concerts, and stunning skyline views.
"A magical winter wonderland perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike."
⛸️ Rent Skates On-Site
Skate rentals are available, making it easy for spontaneous visits.
📅 Check Event Schedule
The plaza hosts concerts and events; check their calendar before you go!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ice Skating Under the Stars
Main rink
Glide across the ice with stunning downtown Des Moines skyline views. A quintessential winter experience.
Festive Holiday Lights
Plaza grounds
The plaza twinkles with holiday decorations, creating a magical ambiance for skaters and onlookers.
Concerts and Community Events
Main stage/plaza area
Experience live music and local events in this unique open-air venue by the river.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Winter Wonderland Magic
Beyond the Ice
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛸️ Rent Skates On-Site
Skate rentals are available, making it easy for spontaneous visits.
📅 Check Event Schedule
The plaza hosts concerts and events; check their calendar before you go!
💰 Admission & Skate Fees
Be prepared for admission and skate rental fees; it can be a bit pricey.
🚶 Street Parking
Parking is on the street; remember to bring change for meters.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛸️ Rent Skates On-Site
Skate rentals are available, making it easy for spontaneous visits.
📅 Check Event Schedule
The plaza hosts concerts and events; check their calendar before you go!
💰 Admission & Skate Fees
Be prepared for admission and skate rental fees; it can be a bit pricey.
🚶 Street Parking
Parking is on the street; remember to bring change for meters.
📝 Sign a Waiver
You'll likely need to sign a waiver before hitting the ice.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Brenton Skating Plaza is a beloved outdoor ice rink offering a magical winter experience with its festive lights and downtown views. Visitors praise the well-maintained ice, friendly staff, and the unique atmosphere for both skating and events. Some find the admission and skate rental fees to be a bit high, and street parking requires attention.
"Brenton Skating Plaza in Des Moines is an enchanting outdoor destination that offers a magical skating experience. Nestled in the heart of the city, the plaza transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. The ice is well-maintained, providing a smooth glide under the open sky. The twinkling lights and downtown backdrop add a picturesque charm. Facilities are clean and well-organized, and the staff is friendly and helpful, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned skater or lacing up for the first time, Brenton Skating Plaza promises delightful memories and a refreshing outdoor escape."
Alok Kumar
"Great place for concerts. It's an open air venue that hosts concerts rain or shine. I love the outdoors aspect of it because most concert venues get so hot from all the body heat. Here you can step away from the crowd and cool off in the nice breeze coming off the river. The acoustics are surprisingly good. The sound is consistent from front to back. I've never had any trouble finding parking. There is no parking lot here so you have to park on the street. Don't forget to bring change so you can feed the meter!"
Anne McIntyre
"Really cool downtown ice rink. Great place to take kids to get a little outside fresh air when visiting Des Moines in the winter. They rent skates and have a Zamboni so you will get good ice."
Frank Haege
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brenton Skating Plaza is located downtown Des Moines, along the Principal Riverwalk. Street parking is available nearby, so remember to bring change for meters.
Parking is available on the street surrounding the plaza. It's recommended to have change for parking meters.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission and skate rental fees apply. While specific prices can vary, it's noted as being 'pretty pricey' by some visitors. It's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for current pricing.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak winter season or for special events, to ensure entry and avoid queues.
The plaza operates seasonally, typically from November to March for ice skating. Hours can vary, so it's best to check their official schedule online before your visit.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own skates. If you don't have your own, skate rentals are available on-site.
Yes, visitors are typically required to read and sign a waiver before participating in ice skating activities.
🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience
The ice is generally well-maintained, with a Zamboni used to ensure a smooth skating surface.
Yes, skate rentals are available on-site, making it convenient for those who don't own their own skates.
Absolutely! It's a great place for beginners, including children, to try ice skating for the first time.
Expect a magical winter wonderland atmosphere, especially during the holidays with twinkling lights and a downtown backdrop. It's also a lively spot for concerts and events.
Yes, it's considered a romantic spot, especially with the festive holiday decorations and the option for private arrangements with the venue.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning photos with the illuminated downtown Des Moines skyline as your backdrop, especially during evening hours when the lights are on. The festive holiday decorations also make for great shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed. It's a picturesque location, perfect for capturing winter memories or event highlights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings for a less crowded experience, which can be ideal for younger or less experienced skaters. The festive lights during the holiday season add an extra layer of magic that children will adore.
💑 Couples and Romantic Outings
It's a classic, fun activity that allows for conversation and shared experiences. The plaza has even been suggested as a spot for proposals, highlighting its romantic potential. Consider visiting during an evening when the lights are particularly vibrant, or check if there are any live music events scheduled to enhance the ambiance.
💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors
If you own your own skates, bringing them will save on rental fees. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ice Skating Experience
Visitors often highlight the magical ambiance, especially during the evenings when the plaza is adorned with twinkling lights, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. The backdrop of the Des Moines skyline adds to the charm, making it a popular spot for families, couples, and even proposals. Skate rentals are available on-site, making it convenient for spontaneous outings. However, be prepared for admission and skate rental fees, which some find to be on the pricier side.
Beyond recreational skating, the plaza is a versatile venue. It has hosted concerts, community events, and even roller derby practices, showcasing its role as a vibrant downtown gathering space. Checking their schedule for special events can add an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
+2Events and Activities Beyond Skating
The plaza has also been a site for community gatherings and sports-related events. For instance, it has hosted activities involving local sports teams, like Drake University's basketball teams and the Iowa Wild hockey team's promotional tours. These events often include opportunities for fans to interact with players and enjoy entertainment like drone shows.
+1Furthermore, the space is utilized by local groups for activities such as roller derby boot camps, demonstrating its adaptability for different recreational pursuits. This multi-faceted use makes Brenton Skating Plaza a significant community asset, offering diverse entertainment options beyond its winter ice rink function.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit