Are you in the mood to try something new this winter? Here’s an idea for you if you are – did you know there’s an ice skating rink at the world’s largest man-made grotto? That’s right, if you time it right, you can actually ice skate at the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa.
Ice skating. It’s been a traditional wintertime activity for centuries, especially in cold climates where backyard ponds and nearby rivers regularly freeze over in the darkest months of the year.
Charles Parsons / Wikipedia
Iowa is one of those places, and opportunities to ice skate abound throughout the state. But one of the best, least-known, most interesting skating rinks around is found here, at the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend.
VeteranNurse / Tripadvisor
Here’s what the Grotto of the Redemption, the world’s largest man-made grotto, looks like in the summer.
David W.G. / Tripadvisor
See that pond out in front of the Grotto? In summer, it’s a calm, scenic place where birds swim that welcomes visitors to this shrine.
David W.G. / Tripadvisor
But in winter, it freezes solid and transforms into an ice rink!
Grotto Ice Rink / Facebook
Ice skating at the Grotto Skate Rink is weather-dependent, so the availability can vary. However, the typical season is from December through mid-March. Days of the week can vary as well; one of the best ways to make sure the ice rink is open is to call ahead of your visit.
West Bend Iowa The number to reach the Grotto Ice Rink is (515) 887-7465.
To stay up to date on ice conditions and skating hours, follow the Grotto Ice Rink on Facebook. To check admission prices and find other information about the activities and amenities offered here (like food and a warming house), visit the West Bend ice skating website. For even more winter fun, try a visit to one of these 12 winter attractions scattered throughout the state.
Charles Parsons / Wikipedia
VeteranNurse / Tripadvisor
David W.G. / Tripadvisor
Grotto Ice Rink / Facebook
West Bend Iowa
The number to reach the Grotto Ice Rink is (515) 887-7465.
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Address: Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption, 208 1st Ave NW, West Bend, IA 50597, USA
