How to Save on Ice Skating in Long Beach

Ice skating in Long Beach offers a magical blend of winter charm and coastal city energy. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a first-timer looking to enjoy a festive outing, the experience can be unforgettable — but it doesn’t have to be expensive. With rising costs for entertainment and leisure activities, learning how to save on ice skating in Long Beach is more valuable than ever. From timing your visit to leveraging local discounts and community programs, there are multiple strategic ways to enjoy the rink without overspending. This guide breaks down actionable, proven methods to reduce your ice skating expenses while maximizing fun, safety, and access. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date night, or a solo session, these tips will help you skate smarter, not harder.

Step-by-Step Guide

Reducing your ice skating costs in Long Beach requires a structured approach. Follow these seven detailed steps to ensure you’re getting the most value out of every visit.

Step 1: Research Seasonal Rink Openings and Locations

Long Beach doesn’t have a permanent ice rink, but several temporary seasonal rinks open during the holiday season — typically from late November through early January. The most popular locations include the Long Beach Ice Arena (when operational), the Pike Outlets Holiday Ice Rink, and occasional pop-up rinks at Shoreline Village or the Long Beach Convention Center. Before committing to a visit, confirm the exact dates and location of the rink for the current year. Many rinks operate on limited schedules, and some days may have higher admission fees due to special events or peak hours.

Visit the official websites of each venue and sign up for their email newsletters. These often include early-bird pricing alerts and exclusive discount codes not available on third-party sites. Knowing the schedule helps you avoid last-minute, full-price tickets.

Step 2: Purchase Tickets Online in Advance

Buying tickets at the door is almost always more expensive. Most Long Beach ice rinks offer discounted online ticket packages that can save you 15% to 30%. For example, the Pike Outlets Holiday Ice Rink frequently offers bundled deals like “Family 4-Pack” or “Evening Session Specials” that are only available through their website. These packages often include skate rental, admission, and sometimes even a complimentary hot drink.

Use browser incognito mode when searching for tickets to avoid dynamic pricing based on your browsing history. Compare prices across the official site, Google Shopping, and local event platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup. Sometimes, community organizations or nonprofits partner with rinks to offer subsidized tickets — these are often listed under “Community Events” or “Free Admission Days.”

Step 3: Take Advantage of Free or Discounted Admission Days

Many ice rinks in Long Beach offer designated “Pay-What-You-Can” or “Free Skate” days to promote inclusivity and community engagement. These are often scheduled on weekdays during non-peak hours — such as Tuesday afternoons or Wednesday mornings — when attendance is low. Some rinks also partner with local schools, libraries, or youth centers to provide free or heavily discounted passes to residents.

Check with the Long Beach Public Library system — they frequently offer free admission passes to local attractions, including ice rinks, as part of their “Culture Pass” program. Similarly, the Long Beach Recreation Department sometimes distributes vouchers for low-income families through social service offices. Don’t assume these programs don’t exist — proactively call or email the rink’s management team to ask about upcoming community access days.

Step 4: Rent Skates Strategically

Skate rental fees can add $8–$15 per person to your total cost. To minimize this expense, consider bringing your own skates if you have them. If not, look for secondhand options. Local thrift stores like Savers, Goodwill, or the Long Beach Salvation Army often carry gently used ice skates for as little as $5–$10. Be sure to check the blade condition and fit before purchasing.

Some community centers or skating clubs in Long Beach offer skate loaner programs for beginners. Reach out to the Long Beach Figure Skating Club or local youth hockey teams — many have equipment closets and are happy to lend skates for a day. Always clean and dry rented skates after use to avoid extra cleaning fees or damage charges.

Step 5: Visit During Off-Peak Hours

Admission pricing often varies by time of day. Weekday mornings (9 AM–12 PM) and early afternoons (1 PM–4 PM) are typically the cheapest. Evenings and weekends — especially Friday through Sunday — command premium pricing due to higher demand. If your schedule allows, aim for weekday visits. You’ll not only save money but also enjoy less crowded rinks, better skate availability, and more space to practice.

Some rinks offer “Early Bird Specials” — discounted rates for the first hour of the day. Arriving 15 minutes before opening can give you access to these deals. Additionally, rinks often lower prices during inclement weather to encourage attendance. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts; a rainy afternoon might mean a last-minute price drop.

Step 6: Bundle with Other Local Activities

Long Beach is rich in affordable attractions that often partner with ice rinks for bundled deals. For example, the Pike Outlets sometimes offers a “Skate & Shop” discount — show your ice skating ticket receipt and get 10% off at participating stores. Shoreline Village combines rink access with discounted entry to the nearby aquarium or carousel. The Long Beach Museum of Art occasionally hosts “Skate & See” nights where admission to the museum is free with a rink ticket.

Use local deal platforms like Groupon, LivingSocial, or the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce’s “Local Deals” page to find multi-attraction packages. These bundles can reduce your total cost by 25% or more. Always read the fine print — some deals require you to purchase food or merchandise to qualify for the discount.

Step 7: Join or Form a Group Discount

Many rinks offer group rates for parties of 10 or more. If you’re planning a family gathering, school outing, or friend group event, pool your tickets together. Even groups of 5–8 can sometimes qualify for a discount if you contact the rink in advance and ask. Some venues offer a free ticket for every 10 purchased — ideal for families with young children who may not skate the full session.

Consider forming a recurring skating group with neighbors or coworkers. You can rotate hosting duties, share transportation costs, and negotiate group rates for monthly visits. Over time, this reduces the per-person cost significantly. Some local Facebook groups, like “Long Beach Families” or “SoCal Skaters,” have active members who organize group outings — join these communities to stay informed.

Best Practices

Beyond specific money-saving tactics, adopting the right habits ensures you get the most out of your ice skating experience — without overspending or compromising safety.

Plan Ahead, Don’t Impulse

Impulse visits often lead to higher spending. Set a budget before you go — whether it’s $25 or $75 per person — and stick to it. Include all potential costs: admission, skate rental, food, parking, and souvenirs. Many people forget that parking at popular rinks like the Pike Outlets can cost $10–$15 per vehicle. Look for free parking options nearby, such as street parking on Ocean Boulevard or using public transit.

Bring Your Own Snacks and Water

Food and drinks at rinks are marked up significantly. A hot chocolate might cost $7, while a bottled water is $5. Bring your own insulated thermos with warm tea or cocoa, and pack energy bars or fruit. Most rinks allow outside food as long as it’s not messy or alcoholic. This simple habit can save you $15–$25 per person per visit.

Dress Smart for the Cold

Wearing proper layers reduces the need to rent or buy expensive thermal gear. Thermal base layers, wool socks, gloves, and a beanie are essential. If you don’t own them, thrift stores in Long Beach offer affordable options. Avoid cotton — it retains moisture and makes you colder. Dressing appropriately means you won’t feel the need to buy overpriced gloves or jackets at the rink’s gift shop.

Use Public Transportation

Long Beach has an extensive public transit system, including the DASH buses, Metro Rail, and the Beach Bus. Many rinks are accessible via these routes. For example, the Pike Outlets rink is a 5-minute walk from the Long Beach Transit’s 101 bus stop. Using public transit can save you $10–$15 in parking and fuel costs per trip. Consider purchasing a TAP card for seamless transfers across systems.

Track Your Spending

Use a free budgeting app like Mint, YNAB, or even a simple spreadsheet to log each ice skating outing. Note the date, total cost, duration, and satisfaction level. After a few visits, you’ll see which strategies work best. Maybe you realize that Tuesday morning visits with your own skates and snacks cost only $12 per person — far less than the $45 you spent on a weekend family ticket. Tracking helps you optimize future outings.

Learn Basic Skate Maintenance

If you own skates, learning how to clean and store them properly extends their life. Wipe down blades after each use with a dry cloth, and use a skate sharpener or visit a local pro shop every 10–15 hours of skating. A well-maintained pair can last years, saving you hundreds in rental or replacement costs. Long Beach has several local skate shops, like Skater’s Edge, that offer affordable sharpening services.

Volunteer or Work at the Rink

Some rinks offer free or discounted skating in exchange for volunteer hours. This is especially common during the holiday rush when they need extra staff for admissions, skate rentals, or safety monitoring. Contact the rink’s operations manager in early November to inquire about opportunities. Even a few hours of helping out can earn you a season pass or multiple free sessions.

Tools and Resources

Several digital and physical tools can make saving on ice skating in Long Beach easier, more reliable, and more efficient.

Official Rink Websites

Always start with the official website of the rink you plan to visit. For example:

• Pike Outlets Holiday Ice Rink: www.thepike.com/ice-rink
• Long Beach Ice Arena: www.longbeachicearena.com
• Shoreline Village: www.shorelinevillage.com

These sites list current pricing, hours, special events, and discount codes. Bookmark them and check weekly as offerings change.

Local Event Calendars

Use these free platforms to find discounted or free skating events:

• Long Beach Calendar of Events — www.longbeach.gov/events
• Visit Long Beach — www.visitlongbeach.com
• Eventbrite — search “Long Beach ice skating” for community-hosted events

These calendars often list “Free Family Night” or “Senior Skate” events that aren’t advertised on social media.

Community Organizations

Reach out to these groups for potential access:

• Long Beach Public Library — offers Culture Passes for free admission to local attractions
• Long Beach Recreation Department — administers subsidized recreation programs for low-income residents
• Long Beach Figure Skating Club — provides beginner clinics and equipment loans
• YMCA Long Beach — sometimes partners with rinks for discounted family passes

Mobile Apps

These apps help you find deals and navigate logistics:

• Groupon — search “Long Beach ice skating” for limited-time offers
• Google Maps — use the “Transit” feature to plan routes to rinks with public transportation
• Waze — helps avoid parking fees by finding free street parking near rinks
• Facebook Groups — join “Long Beach Free Events” or “SoCal Skating Enthusiasts” for peer-shared deals

Discount Cards and Loyalty Programs

Some local businesses offer loyalty cards that include ice skating discounts:

• Long Beach Transit Loyalty Program — earn points for free rides, redeemable for rink discounts
• Albertsons / Vons Grocery Loyalty — occasionally offer $5 off ice skating tickets with a $50 grocery purchase
• Chase Sapphire or Capital One Venture Cards — some credit cards offer cashback on entertainment purchases

Local Libraries and Community Centers

Don’t overlook physical resources. The Long Beach Public Library system offers:

• Free admission passes to local attractions
• Workshops on winter sports safety and equipment care
• Access to books and videos on beginner skating techniques

Visit your nearest branch and ask about “Community Activity Passes” — they’re often underutilized but available to all cardholders.

Real Examples

Real-world examples demonstrate how these strategies work in practice. Here are three case studies from Long Beach residents who saved significantly on ice skating.

Case Study 1: The Martinez Family — Saving $180 Per Season

The Martinez family of four (two adults, two children) wanted to visit the Pike Outlets rink three times during the holidays. Without planning, they estimated spending $180 on tickets ($45 each) and $60 on rentals ($15 per person). They followed the steps in this guide:

• Purchased a “Family 4-Pack” online for $120 (saving $60)
• Used free passes from the Long Beach Public Library for two children
• Brought their own skates from a thrift store for $8 total
• Visited on a Tuesday afternoon for a 20% off discount
• Carried snacks and used the DASH bus (free with library card)

Final cost: $48. Total savings: $192.

Case Study 2: Jamal, a College Student — Free Skating Through Volunteering

Jamal, a 20-year-old student at CSULB, wanted to skate weekly but couldn’t afford the $35 weekly fee. He contacted the Shoreline Village rink manager and offered to help with skate returns and crowd control on Saturday afternoons. In exchange, he received:

• Free admission every Saturday
• Free skate rental
• One free hot chocolate per visit

Over 10 weeks, Jamal saved $350 and gained valuable work experience. He also met other skaters and joined a local beginner league.

Case Study 3: The Garcia Group — Community Skating Club

Three neighbors in the Belmont Heights neighborhood formed a weekly skating group. They pooled resources to:

• Buy five pairs of used skates for $50 total
• Coordinate carpools to avoid parking fees
• Buy tickets in bulk (10-pack for $250) and rotate who pays each week
• Host a potluck after skating to avoid food costs

Each member paid $25 per month for 12 sessions — a fraction of the $120 it would have cost individually. They’ve been meeting every week for three seasons and now host a yearly “Skate & Give” event, donating used skates to local shelters.

FAQs

Is there a free ice skating rink in Long Beach?

There is no permanently free ice skating rink in Long Beach, but free or pay-what-you-can sessions are offered seasonally. Check with the Long Beach Public Library for Culture Passes, or contact the rink directly to ask about community access days. These are often announced on social media or local news outlets like the Long Beach Post.

Can I bring my own ice skates?

Yes, most rinks in Long Beach allow you to bring your own skates. In fact, many encourage it to reduce rental costs and wait times. Ensure your skates are clean, in good condition, and appropriate for the rink surface. Some rinks require blade guards to be worn when walking off the ice.

What’s the cheapest time to go ice skating in Long Beach?

The cheapest times are weekday mornings (9 AM–12 PM) and early afternoons (1 PM–4 PM). Avoid weekends, holidays, and evenings. Some rinks offer “Early Bird” discounts for the first hour of operation. Always check the rink’s pricing schedule online before you go.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

It’s highly recommended. Online tickets are almost always cheaper than walk-up prices, and popular sessions sell out quickly — especially during the holiday season. Booking in advance also guarantees skate availability and reduces wait times.

Are there discounts for students or seniors?

Some rinks offer reduced rates for students with valid ID or seniors over 60, but these are not guaranteed. Always ask at the ticket counter or check the website. Community organizations like the Long Beach Senior Center may also offer subsidized access.

Can I use a gift card to pay for ice skating?

Many rinks accept gift cards purchased from the venue or partner retailers like Target or Amazon. Some local businesses sell rink gift cards as holiday promotions. Check the rink’s website for accepted payment methods.

What if I’ve never skated before? Are there beginner lessons?

Yes. Many Long Beach rinks offer beginner clinics for $10–$20 per session, which include instruction and skate rental. The Long Beach Figure Skating Club and local YMCA branches often host low-cost introductory programs. These are ideal for families or individuals new to skating.

Is ice skating safe for young children?

Yes, with proper supervision and gear. Most rinks have “learn-to-skate” zones and provide helmets for children under 12. Bring your own helmet if possible — it’s cheaper than renting one. Always ensure your child wears gloves and warm layers.

Can I skate outdoors in Long Beach?

Currently, all ice skating in Long Beach takes place in climate-controlled, temporary indoor rinks. The city’s mild climate doesn’t support natural ice, so all rinks are artificially frozen and enclosed. This means consistent conditions regardless of weather.

How do I know if a rink is open on a specific day?

Always verify directly with the rink’s official website or call their operations line. Hours change frequently based on holidays, weather, or private events. Social media pages are not always updated in real time.

Conclusion

Saving on ice skating in Long Beach isn’t about cutting corners — it’s about being strategic, informed, and community-minded. By planning ahead, leveraging local resources, and adopting smart habits, you can enjoy the thrill of gliding on ice without straining your budget. Whether you’re a family looking for affordable holiday fun, a student seeking recreation, or a senior wanting to stay active, the tools and opportunities are there — you just need to know where to look.

The real value of ice skating isn’t measured in dollars saved, but in memories made — the laughter of a child taking their first steps on ice, the quiet focus of a beginner mastering a turn, the shared warmth of friends skating under twinkling lights. These moments are priceless. And with the right approach, they don’t have to cost a fortune.

Start by researching this season’s rink locations. Sign up for newsletters. Check your library for passes. Talk to neighbors. Bring your own skates. Visit during off-peak hours. The next time you lace up, you’ll not only be skating — you’ll be skating smart.