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Seasonal & Holidays

Where To Skate, Ski And Sled In And Around Springfield

Feeling inspired by the Winter Games? Here are a few ways to get out, stay active and make the most of the season!

Ready for some winter adventure? From indoor skating to easy day trips for skiing, sledding and tubing, here’s where to find winter fun around Springfield.
Ready for some winter adventure? From indoor skating to easy day trips for skiing, sledding and tubing, here’s where to find winter fun around Springfield. (Shutterstock)

Feeling inspired by the excitement of the Winter Games? You don’t have to travel far to get in on the seasonal spirit. Around Springfield, you’ll find places where families can lace up skates, enjoy indoor winter fun, or plan easy day trips to nearby skiing, tubing or sledding spots. Whether you’re looking to stay close to home or head out for a weekend adventure, these ideas can help you make the most of the season. Just be sure to double-check hours, weather conditions and reservation details before heading out.


⛸️ Ice Skating & Indoor Winter Fun

Nelson Center Ice Rink

Address: 1601 N 5th St, Springfield, IL 62702

Phone: (217) 753-2800

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Details: Nelson Center Ice Rink offers public skating sessions, lessons, and hockey programs in an indoor arena setting. It’s located right in Springfield, making it the most convenient place in town to get on the ice.


Owens Center

Address: 1019 W Lake Ave, Peoria, IL 61614

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Phone: (309) 686-3368

Details: Owens Center is a year-round indoor ice skating facility featuring multiple full-size rinks, open skate sessions, skating lessons, and hockey programs. It’s about a 1-hour 30-minute drive from Springfield and makes a great scenic winter destination when you want a larger indoor ice experience.


🎿 Skiing, Snowboarding & Tubing — Day Trips

Hidden Valley Ski Resort

Address: 17409 Hidden Valley Dr, Wildwood, MO 63025

Phone: (636) 938-5373

Details: Hidden Valley offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing on a compact hill with terrain for a range of skill levels. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Springfield and is one of the closer ski destinations in the region.


Snowstar Winter Sports Park

Address: 9500 126th St W, Andalusia, IL 61232

Phone: (800) 383-4002

Details: Snowstar features skiing, snowboarding, and tubing on varied runs overlooking the Mississippi River valley. It’s roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Springfield and works well for a longer winter outing.


☃️ Outdoor Play & Sledding Spots

Winter in Springfield brings plenty of chances to enjoy the outdoors once snow settles in. Parks and open green spaces quickly become favorite sledding areas after fresh snowfall.

Springfield spots to consider:

  • Washington Park features open grassy slopes and natural elevation that work well for sledding when snow conditions allow. Its central location and spacious layout make it a go-to local option for winter play. (Source: Springfield Park District)

Further outdoors:

  • Lincoln Memorial Garden — The natural hills and open terrain here allow for longer sled runs once snow conditions are right. It’s about a 10–15 minute drive from central Springfield and offers a scenic winter setting without heading to a ski resort.

Bundle up, stay safe and have fun wherever winter takes you!

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This post is sponsored and contributed by Patch In Town, a Patch Brand Partner.