15+ Creative Backyard Rink Ideas for Winter Fun

Winter is the perfect time to transform your backyard into a dreamy ice rink haven. Whether you’re a hockey fan or just love the idea of gliding across your own ice, these ideas will inspire you to create a stunning rink right at home.

1. PVC Pipe Rink

A versatile PVC pipe rink perfect for any backyard terrain.
A versatile PVC pipe rink perfect for any backyard terrain.

For a more flexible option, consider a PVC pipe rink. It’s lightweight, easy to assemble, and can adapt to uneven ground, which has saved me on more than one occasion!

Maybe worth checking out:

  • PVC Pipe Kit: Assemble your backyard rink with ease using a durable, adaptable PVC pipe kit today!
  • Ice Rink Liner: Protect your rink and maintain ice quality with a robust, weather-resistant ice rink liner.
  • Rink Brackets: Stabilize your rink with easy-to-install brackets for a sturdy and secure setup.

2. Solar-Powered Lights

Solar-powered lights create an eco-friendly nighttime glow.
Solar-powered lights create an eco-friendly nighttime glow.

Install solar-powered lights around your rink for an eco-friendly lighting solution. They charge during the day and illuminate your rink at night.

Possibly handy products:

  • Outdoor Solar String Lights: Illuminate your rink with eco-friendly, outdoor solar string lights for a charming nighttime glow.
  • Solar-Powered Pathway Lights: Enhance rink visibility by installing solar-powered pathway lights that charge during the day.
  • Solar Garden Lights: Create ambiance with solar garden lights that automatically brighten your rink after sunset.

3. DIY Wooden Frame Rink

A DIY wooden frame rink nestled in a serene winter setting.
A DIY wooden frame rink nestled in a serene winter setting.

Building a wooden frame rink in your backyard can be incredibly rewarding. I’ve crafted one myself using reclaimed wood, which not only looks rustic but also holds the ice beautifully.

Consider these options:

  • Outdoor String Lights: Illuminate your rink with cozy outdoor lights for those magical evening skating sessions.
  • Heavy-Duty Tarp: Ensure your ice stays perfect by using a durable tarp as a rink liner.
  • Adjustable Ice Rink Brackets: Secure your rink’s wooden frame with these reliable adjustable brackets for stability.

4. String Light Magic

String lights add a magical glow to this backyard rink.
String lights add a magical glow to this backyard rink.

Add a touch of enchantment to your rink with string lights. I love how they create a cozy, inviting atmosphere for evening skates.

Products that could assist:

  • Outdoor Waterproof String Lights: Illuminate your rink with waterproof lights for durable, enchanting evening skates. Perfect for any weather!
  • LED Solar-Powered String Lights: Enhance your rink’s ambiance sustainably with solar lights. Enjoy energy-efficient, magical evenings outdoors!
  • Warm White Globe String Lights: Create a warm, inviting atmosphere on your rink. Perfect for cozy, memorable skating nights!

5. Snowy Wonderland Theme

A snowy wonderland theme enchants every skater.
A snowy wonderland theme enchants every skater.

Create a snowy wonderland theme with frosted decorations and snow sculptures. It’s a whimsical touch that delights both kids and adults.

Check if these fit your needs:

  • Outdoor String Lights: Illuminate your backyard rink with enchanting string lights and create a magical snowy wonderland.
  • Artificial Snow Flock: Enhance your theme with artificial snow flock for a realistic snowy look that lasts longer.
  • Snowflake Lawn Stakes: Use snowflake lawn stakes to add whimsical charm and elegance to your winter wonderland setup.

6. Portable Refrigerated Rink

Enjoy ice skating year-round with a portable refrigerated rink.
Enjoy ice skating year-round with a portable refrigerated rink.

If you live in a warmer climate, a portable refrigerated rink might be your best bet. These systems allow you to enjoy ice skating even when Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.

You might give these a try:

  • Portable Ice Rink Kits: Set up this rink in minutes for endless fun and winter enjoyment in any climate.
  • Refrigeration System for Ice Rinks: Keep your rink ready with this efficient cooling system, perfect for warmer climates.
  • Outdoor String Lights for Backyard Rinks: Enhance your rink atmosphere with these beautiful lights, ideal for evening skates.

7. Hockey Rink Setup

A backyard hockey rink brings the thrill of the game home.
A backyard hockey rink brings the thrill of the game home.

Bring the game home by setting up a hockey rink. I adore how the boards and nets make practice sessions with friends feel like the real deal.

A few choices to try:

  • Backyard Hockey Rink Kit: Transform your backyard into a rink with this easy-to-assemble hockey rink kit. Enjoy seamless play!
  • Hockey Goals and Nets: Upgrade your practice sessions with durable hockey goals and nets. Enhance your scoring skills now!
  • Ice Rink Liner: Ensure a smooth ice surface with quality liners, essential for perfect backyard skating sessions.

8. Simple Plastic Liner Rink

A simple plastic liner makes setting up a rink a breeze.
A simple plastic liner makes setting up a rink a breeze.

For an easy setup, use a plastic liner to contain your rink. It’s affordable and does the job beautifully with minimal fuss.

Give these a look:

  • Heavy-Duty Plastic Liner: Keep your rink contained and secure with this durable and weather-resistant plastic liner.
  • Ice Rink Bracket Kit: Ensure your rink’s stability with these easy-to-install and sturdy support brackets.
  • Outdoor Flood Lights: Extend your skating time into the evening with these weather-resistant outdoor lights.

9. Colorful LED Lights

Colorful LEDs transform the rink into a lively winter wonderland.
Colorful LEDs transform the rink into a lively winter wonderland.

For a festive vibe, install colorful LED lights around your rink. Watching them dance on the ice is an absolute joy!

A few things you might like:

  • Waterproof LED Strip Lights: Light up your rink with waterproof LED strips for vibrant colors and a festive atmosphere.
  • Solar-Powered LED String Lights: Transform your rink with solar-powered string lights for eco-friendly, colorful nighttime illumination.
  • Remote-Controlled LED Spotlights: Add drama to your skating experience with remote-controlled spotlights for dynamic colorful effects.

10. Garden Hose Resurfacing

A garden hose provides a practical resurfacing solution.
A garden hose provides a practical resurfacing solution.

Try using a garden hose to resurface your rink. It’s an uncomplicated method that I rely on to keep the ice fresh and smooth.

You might like:

  • Heavy-Duty Garden Hose: Invest in a durable garden hose for effective ice resurfacing this winter season.
  • Adjustable Spray Nozzle: Enhance ice surface quality by using an adjustable spray nozzle for precise water control.
  • Ice Rink Resurfacer Attachment: Simplify resurfacing tasks with a rink resurfacer attachment compatible with your garden hose.

11. DIY Bench Area

A DIY bench area offers a cozy spot for skaters to get ready.
A DIY bench area offers a cozy spot for skaters to get ready.

Add a bench area for skaters to lace up their skates. I built mine from reclaimed wood, giving it a charming rustic feel.

A few suggestions:

  • Reclaimed Wood Bench: Enhance your backyard rink with a rustic wood bench for skaters to lace up comfortably.
  • Weatherproof Outdoor Cushion: Add comfort with a weatherproof cushion, perfect for a cozy seating experience on your bench.
  • Outdoor Waterproof Wood Finish: Protect your bench from weather elements using a durable waterproof wood finish treatment.

12. Cozy Fire Pit Area

A fire pit creates a warm gathering spot by the rink.
A fire pit creates a warm gathering spot by the rink.

Warm up between skates by adding a fire pit near your rink. It’s a delightful spot for sipping hot cocoa and sharing stories.

Check these products out:

  • Outdoor Fire Pit Bowl: Enhance your backyard warmth with an elegant fire pit. Gather around and enjoy the fire.
  • Weatherproof Outdoor Seating: Comfortably unwind next to the fire with stylish, durable outdoor seating designed for any weather.
  • String Lights for Outdoor Use: Illuminate your backyard with enchanting string lights. Create a magical skating ambiance effortlessly.

13. Child-Friendly Rink

A child-friendly rink ensures safe, playful skating adventures.
A child-friendly rink ensures safe, playful skating adventures.

Design a child-friendly rink with low boards and playful elements. It’s a safe and fun way to introduce little ones to the joy of skating.

Explore these options:

  • Colorful LED String Lights: Add a touch of magic to the rink with vibrant LED lights for evening skating fun.
  • Decorative Outdoor Banners: Enhance the playful atmosphere with cheerful banners that will delight every child skater.
  • Child-Safe Skating Helmets: Ensure safety while skating with helmets designed for young skaters, prioritizing protection and comfort.

14. Zen Garden Rink

A zen garden rink provides a peaceful ice skating retreat.
A zen garden rink provides a peaceful ice skating retreat.

Combine tranquility and fun by creating a zen garden rink. Surrounded by bamboo and lanterns, it offers a peaceful skating escape.

Some handy options:

  • Bamboo Privacy Screen: Enhance your zen garden rink with a bamboo screen for added tranquility and privacy.
  • Outdoor Lantern Lights: Create a soothing ambiance with elegant lantern lights surrounding your backyard rink.
  • Japanese Garden Bench: Add a touch of serenity with a traditional garden bench for a peaceful resting spot.

15. Surrounding Evergreens

Evergreens provide a lush, natural setting for your rink.
Evergreens provide a lush, natural setting for your rink.

Plant evergreens around your rink for a natural windbreak and a touch of greenery. They add privacy and a lovely backdrop.

May just do the trick:

  • Live Evergreen Trees for Planting: Enhance your rink’s privacy and beauty with lush evergreen trees. Plant and enjoy year-round greenery.
  • Potted Evergreen Shrubs: Add instant greenery and elegance to your rink with potted evergreen shrubs. Easy to maintain.
  • Fast-Growing Evergreen Seeds: Create a natural windbreak with quick-growing evergreen seeds. Cultivate a beautiful, green backdrop.

Text: Joyce Peterson