A Wintertime Riverside Oasis: What to Expect at Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest

Ice Skating at Blue Cross RiverRink

The centerpiece of the waterfront experience remains the Blue Cross RiverRink , the only regulation National Hockey League-sized outdoor ice skating rink in Philadelphia.

— Photo by M. Stanley

A seasonal tradition for more than 25 years, the RiverRink brings skating to Penn’s Landing with spectacular views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the Delaware River.

Timed skating tickets are available on-site and online in advance, and cost $5 to skate. No skates? No problem: Rentals are $12.

Holiday Fun & Games

Just because summer is over does not mean the boardwalk is closed! Illuminated boardwalk games are available all season long — as are rides on the twinkling 60-foot-tall Ferris wheel. Attractions are pay-as-you-go but the cozy vibes are free.

Heated cabins and firepits can be reserved for 90-minute increments in advance . Cabins are $78 for a single that accommodates eight people and $125 for a double that accommodates 12 to 15 people. Fire pits are $30 for 90 minutes and s’more kits are available to purchase at concessions to round out the toasty experience.

— Photo courtesy Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest

Food & Drink

After a few laps on the RiverRink, warm up at the open-air lodge, where winter cocktails and comfort food from FCM’s Black Iron BBQ and Chickie’s and Pete’s are on the menu.

For dessert, there’s hot cocoa, fried Oreos and funnel cake.

Outdoor concessions are also available for those who like to take in the sites and the crisp winter air with their meal.

Getting There & Tickets

General admission to the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest is free and open to the public.

Admission to ice skate at the Blue Cross RiverRink is $5 with skate rental available for $12. Independence Blue Cross cardholders and employees receive free skating admission.

The wintertime attraction is easily accessible by SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line and bus routes.