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Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Winter in Philly means the return of Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest. Celebrating 30 years on the waterfront, Winterfest transforms Penn’s Landing into a cozy, cold-weather park overlooking the Delaware River.
A winterized version of the summertime roller skating oasis that is Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, Winterfest houses an ice skating rink (with the Benjamin Franklin Bridge serving as a breathtaking backdrop), a ski chalet-style lodge, a majestically lit holiday tree, an outdoor seating area with fire pits, cozy warming cabins, and plenty of hot beverages and seasonal snacks.
An annual favorite among residents and visitors of all ages, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest is open now through early 2024.
The centerpiece of the waterfront experience remains the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink, the only regulation National Hockey League-sized outdoor ice skating rink in Philadelphia.
The RiverRink brings skating to Penn’s Landing with spectacular views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Delaware River.
— Photo courtesy Delaware River Waterfront Corporation
Timed skate sessions do sell out, so it’s highly recommended that visitors purchase tickets online in advance.
The cost to skate is $5 per session, and skate rentals are available for $12
Just because summer is over does not mean the boardwalk is closed! Illuminated boardwalk games are available all season long — as are rides on a twinkling 60-foot-tall Ferris wheel ($5 per ride).
— Photo by M. Stanley for Delaware River Waterfront Corporation
All games and attractions are pay-as-you-go, but the cozy vibes are free.
After a cold winter’s day, there’s nothing quite like the comfort and warmth experienced fireside with friends and family. (We’re talking both literally and figuratively here).
Heated cabins and fire pits can be reserved in advance in 90-minute increments. Cabins are $78 for a single that accommodates up to 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.
After a few laps on the RiverRink, warm up inside The Lodge, with winter cocktails and comfort food from FCM’s Black Iron BBQ (think pulled pork sandwiches and loaded mac and cheese tots).
A Chickie’s and Pete’s location inside The Lodge serves up staples like cheesesteaks, boneless wings and — of course — Chickie’s signature Crabfries®.
For dessert, Skelly’s Amusements offers hot cocoa, fried Oreos and funnel cake.
General admission to Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest is free and open to the public seven days a week.
Ice skating at the Independence 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.
For more information on Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, click the button below.
The Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.
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