Ice, Ice, Baby! Your Guide to Indoor Skating & Hockey Fun in Idaho Falls




Ice, Ice, Baby! Your Guide to Indoor Skating & Hockey Fun in Idaho Falls

 

When the holiday chill settles over Idaho Falls, the best place to find some action and fun is on the ice! Whether you're a seasoned skater or a family looking for a memorable afternoon, the city's premier indoor ice facilities are the place to be.

Here is your guide to gliding, cheering, and learning on the ice this December 2025.

 

1. Public Skate: Joe Marmo/Wayne Lehto Ice Arena

 

The Joe Marmo/Wayne Lehto Ice Arena is the hub for community ice sports and is where you’ll find the best opportunities for casual public skating. It's a fantastic spot for everyone from beginners holding onto the wall to experienced skaters working on their spins.

 

What to Expect:

 

  • The Ice: The arena boasts high-quality ice, offering a great surface for a smooth glide.

  • Admission & Rentals: You can pay a small fee for general admission, and they offer skate rentals right on-site, meaning you don't need to own gear to participate!

  • A Cozy Vibe: It's a welcoming community atmosphere perfect for an afternoon outing.

 

📅 December 2025 Tips:

 

  • Check the Calendar: Public skate hours often vary around holidays and school breaks. Always check the official Idaho Falls Parks & Recreation Ice Arena Calendar before heading out, especially during the week between Christmas and New Year's when they often add extra public sessions!

  • Prime Times: Public sessions are typically offered on Friday and Saturday evenings (often around 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM), with various sessions during the day on weekends and school holidays.

 

2. Spectate: Idaho Falls Spud Kings Hockey

 

For a truly electrifying, high-energy experience, grab tickets to see our local junior hockey team, the Idaho Falls Spud Kings, at the stunning Mountain America Center (MAC). Watching a fast-paced hockey game is a quintessential Idaho winter activity.

 

The Game Day Experience:

 

  • The Energy: The MAC is known for its modern facilities and fantastic atmosphere. The crowd is loud, the music is pumping, and the action is constant.

  • Affordable Entertainment: Spud Kings games offer a great value for family entertainment, putting you right in the middle of a major sports event.

  • December Showdowns: The Spud Kings usually have several home games scheduled right through December, often facing teams like the Ogden Mustangs or the Rock Springs Miners. Check the MAC schedule for specific dates like December 18th, 19th, and 20th for back-to-back home games!

Make it an Event: Arrive early to grab some classic arena snacks, find your seats, and enjoy the pre-game excitement as the team takes the ice!

 

3. Learn to Skate: Holiday Break Lessons

 

December is the perfect time to sign up for a quick session of lessons, especially if the kids are out of school!

  • Ice Skating Lessons: Both the Joe Marmo/Wayne Lehto Arena and local skating clubs offer holiday-break skating programs for beginners. These short sessions are a fun, safe way to learn the basics of balancing and gliding.

  • Hockey Skills: If you're ready to try hockey, look for "Stick Time" or beginner hockey lessons, which are designed to teach the fundamentals of stickhandling and shooting.

 

⛸️ Essential Skating Tips

 

  • Gloves are a Must: Even if you don't feel cold, gloves protect your hands if you fall and protect your hands from the ice.

  • Dress in Layers: Wear warm pants and a light jacket—you'll warm up quickly once you start moving!

  • Use the Buddy System: Always skate with a friend, and don't be afraid to utilize the skating aids (like frames or buckets) if you're a beginner!