Why CDA on Ice is Coeur d’Alene’s Must-Do Winter Tradition
When the leaves fall, nights get longer, and the lakefront air turns crisp, Coeur d’Alene comes alive in a whole new way. From November through January, McEuen Park transforms into a sparkling hub of holiday cheer with CDA on Ice, the region’s premier outdoor ice skating experience.
For locals and visitors alike, this pop-up winter wonderland has become more than just a seasonal attraction; it’s a beloved tradition that creates its own draw to the area. Here’s why CDA on Ice should be at the top of your must-do list every winter.
A Setting Like No Other
CDA on Ice sits in the heart of McEuen Park, just steps away from downtown Coeur d’Alene and the shimmering waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Coeur d’Alene is already noted as one of the most beautiful American towns to visit at Christmas time. Every tree lining Sherman Avenue and neighboring downtown streets is aglow with holiday lights, and the Coeur d’Alene resort converts every Thanksgiving Holiday into a veritable Christmas wonderland.
In nearby McEuen park, skaters glide beneath twinkling lights with the park’s tall evergreens and Tubbs Hill framing the scene. The location makes it easy to pair your skating outing with a stroll through downtown shops, a warming meal at one of the local eateries, or a visit to the resort to admire holiday light displays.
CDA on Ice is not just ice skating; it’s a whole winter experience set against one of the most picturesque backdrops in the Northwest.
Something for Everyone
Whether you’re a seasoned skater or stepping onto the ice for the very first time, CDA on Ice is built for all ages and skill levels. We even offer skating lessons! Families bring their young children to laugh, wobble, and find their balance with our skate trainers. Couples carve out a cozy date night under the lights. Friends gather for a lively outing that beats cabin fever during long Idaho winters. Even if skating isn’t your thing, the rink’s festive atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy watching from the sidelines with a hot drink in hand makes it worth the trip for the whole crew.
Cozy Extras That Make It Special
What sets CDA on Ice apart isn’t just the fact that it’s an outdoor skating rink in the middle of one of the most charming towns in the Inland Northwest (though that’s a good enough reason to visit all by itself). It’s all the little touches that turn an outing into a memory-creating event. Guests can book private igloos rinkside that provide a warm, cozy spot to gather between skating sessions. These heated domes are perfect for families, birthdays, or just a group of friends looking to add an extra touch of comfort, privacy, and luxury to their experience. Each igloo guest also gets a complementary loaded hot cocoa!
Of course, no skating outing is complete without a stop at our concession stand. From our famous loaded hot cocoa to seasonal treats, it’s the kind of indulgence that feels just right on a winter day or evening.
A Place to Celebrate
Beyond everyday skating, CDA on Ice is also a destination for special events. Birthday parties, school outings, and even corporate gatherings take on new energy when hosted at the rink. With customizable packages and space to celebrate, the rink doubles as a winter event venue that’s as unique as it is fun.
A Growing Tradition
Since its first opening in 2021, CDA on Ice has quickly woven itself into the fabric of Coeur d’Alene’s holiday season. Families return year after year, making it part of their winter ritual. For visitors, it’s a way to experience the town’s festive spirit while enjoying something active, social, and scenic. One visit and you’ll quickly see why CDA on ICE has become “a thing” universally enjoyed and cherished.
It’s easy to get swept up in holiday busyness. CDA on Ice offers something refreshingly simple: an occasion to slow down, laugh, and enjoy time together, an experience that will remind you that simple pleasures and time with those you love are precious and unforgettable. We’re willing to bet that CDA on Ice is one winter tradition you won’t have any trouble adopting.
Plan Your Visit
CDA on Ice runs from November through January, giving you plenty of chances to lace up your skates; each reservation comes with skate rental. Have family visiting from out of town? Purchase tickets online ahead of time to secure your spot. Whether you’re local to North Idaho or making Coeur d’Alene part of your winter getaway, this outdoor ice rink is an experience that captures the joy of the season.
So bundle up, grab your friends and family, and make CDA on Ice one of your go-to winter traditions. Contact CDA on Ice today to check hours, book a reservation, schedule a party, or reserve your igloo today.