Brenton Skating Plaza: Outdoor Ice Skating in Downtown Des Moines
Outdoor ice skating with the Des Moines skyline in the background—that’s the draw at Brenton Skating Plaza. Located beside the Des Moines River, this downtown rink makes a fun winter outing with family, friends, or someone who doesn’t mind watching you wobble your way around the ice.
When does Brenton Skating Plaza open in 2026?
Opening Night is planned for Friday, November 20, 2026, from 5 to 11 p.m. The celebration includes visits with Santa and lighting the Christmas tree. Attending the celebration is free; regular admission applies if you want to skate, with skate rental available for an additional charge.
Ice skating depends on weather and ice conditions, so check the official Brenton events page before heading downtown.
Why we enjoy skating here
I’ve visited Brenton Skating Plaza several times with my wife and kids. For years, we headed downtown after a family Christmas gathering to get everyone out of the house and onto the ice.
We’re not great skaters. We’re usually a little jealous of the people who glide around effortlessly while we work on staying upright. But the setting keeps us coming back: music, lights, and the city skyline across the river.
My favorite time to skate is around sunset, when the sky changes color behind downtown Des Moines.
Location: 520 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Website: Brenton Skating Plaza — City of Des Moines
In the days before reservations, you could purchase admission and rent the skates and it could be used all day. I think we maxed out with skating three times in one day – we made trips back home to warm up and get food and then went back for more.
Make an evening of it in downtown Des Moines
Pair your skating outing with shopping or dinner in the nearby Historic East Village. It’s an easy way to turn a trip to the rink into a longer downtown visit.
If you’re up for more time outdoors, walk north along the river toward the Iowa Women of Achievement Pedestrian Bridge. Across the river, you’ll find Lauridsen Skatepark—another stop to keep in mind for a return visit.
How much does skating cost?
The city currently lists these prices:
| Admission or rental | Standard price | Des Moines resident price |
|---|---|---|
| Ages 13 and older | $12 | $10 |
| Children ages 6–12 | $8 | $6 |
| Seniors ages 60 and older | $8 | $6 |
| Children ages 5 and younger | $3 | $2 |
| Skate rental | $6 | $5 |
| Four-person group pass, including admission and rentals for the same day | $30 | $25 |
Bring proof of a Des Moines address to receive the resident discount. Check the official website for current admission instructions before visiting.
Tips before you go
Dress for time outside: gloves, a warm hat, and layers will make the outing more comfortable. We also like to plan somewhere to eat afterward—it gives everyone a chance to warm up.
Check hours for your specific date. Holiday schedules and later-season closures can differ from regular hours. Visit the city’s holiday hours page before making plans.
Check conditions before leaving home. Warm weather, extreme cold, and snow can affect skating. The official Brenton Skating Plaza page includes weather guidance and a signup link for closure notifications.
