Frog Pond Ice Skating is a public outdoor rink on Boston Common, the historic park in downtown Boston, Massachusetts, United States. The rink is located near the Beacon Street side of the Common and is managed through the City of Boston's parks programs. In winter, the shallow frog pond is converted into an ice surface framed by the Common's bare trees, with the Boston skyline and the gold dome of the State House visible nearby. The rink is a popular attraction for locals and visitors and is open to all ability levels. No prior skating experience is needed, and beginners can stay near the boards while more confident skaters circle the center. The rink welcomes children and adults, and there may be age or supervision guidelines for the youngest skaters. Skate rentals are available on site, and visitors should bring gloves, warm socks and layered clothing, as well as a helmet if desired. Lockers or storage may be available for belongings, but valuables are best left behind. Rink staff manage the ice, enforce direction of travel and rules about speed, and can assist skaters who fall or become injured; first-aid and emergency services can be summoned from nearby city responders. There are no certifications required to skate. Admission is about $8 and rentals about $14, for roughly $22 in total, with discounts sometimes available for children and seniors. The skating season runs from late November to March, depending on the temperature, and the ice can close during thaws, rain or when maintenance is under way. Weekend afternoons and holiday periods are the busiest times, with queues for rentals, whereas weekday mornings and evenings tend to be quieter. Visitors can warm up at the nearby cafes or the pavilion area. Hours, pricing and conditions change from year to year and should be confirmed with the City of Boston before visiting.
| Price | Admission about $8 plus rentals about $14 (about $22 USD total) |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1-2 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | Late November to March |
| Address | Boston Common, Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108 |
Activity facts
- Where
- Downtown, Boston
Equipment
Skate rentals available; gloves
Location
Boston Common, Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108
42.3547, -71.0654 View on map
Highlights
- Skate outdoors on Boston Common with views of the downtown skyline
- Rental skates available on site for visitors without their own
- Suitable for beginners, families and experienced skaters
- Easily reached from Park Street and Boylston MBTA stations
Tips for visiting
- Go on weekday mornings or evenings to avoid long rental queues.
- Wear gloves and warm layers; a hat and a helmet are also useful.
- Check the city's rink status before visiting, as thaws and rain can close the ice.
- Bring cash or a card for admission and rentals, and leave valuables at the hotel.
- Wear thin, warm socks that fit comfortably inside rental skates.
When to visit
Weekday mornings and early evenings in December through February are the quietest, with the rink glowing after dark.
Accessibility
The Common is largely flat and paved paths lead to the rink. Visitors with mobility needs should contact the City of Boston for details on ice access and any adaptive skating equipment.
Frequently asked questions
How much does skating at Frog Pond cost?
Admission is about $8 and skate rental about $14, for roughly $22 in total. Prices can change by season.
Are skate rentals available?
Yes, rentals are available on site, and skaters can also bring their own skates.
When is the Frog Pond skating season?
The rink typically operates from late November to March, depending on weather and ice conditions.
Is the rink suitable for beginners?
Yes. No experience is required, and many first-time skaters use the rink, staying near the edges until they feel comfortable.