Whether you're chasing your 2026 Winter Olympics dreams or just looking for a new way to embrace the cold, these nearby spots make it easy to hit the ice — or the slopes.

Lexington Ice Center

With two indoor ice rinks, Lexington Ice Center makes it easy to channel your inner Olympian. Public skating sessions offer flexible times to get comfortable on the ice, while freestyle sessions are reserved for more advanced figure skaters looking to sharpen their skills.

Calling all wall huggers. If you need a little extra guidance, consider enrolling in lessons through the Lexington Ice Center Skating Academy. The next session begins Monday, Feb. 16, and runs weekly through Saturday, March 28. Pro tip: Classes are open to all ages, so parents and kids can learn side by side.

Ready to trade figure skates for a stick? Shoot your shot in one of the center’s hockey tournaments. While 2026 dates for the adult league haven’t been announced, the rink has previously offered both summer and fall seasons.

Perfect North Slopes

The perfect family-friendly day trip, Perfect North Slopes is just an hour and a half from downtown Lexington and offers terrain for everyone — from first-timers to seasoned skiers and snowboarders.

The Discover Snow Sports Self-Guided Area is free for everyone with a valid lift ticket. Designed with first-timers in mind, this beginner's area offers training stations and instructors to help you feel steady and confident on your feet. Perfect North also offers beginner group lessons and the opportunity to rent an instructor.

If you're not too concerned about making the cut for the 2030 Winter Olympics, Editor Alexis recommends snow tubing.