Best Outdoor Ice Rinks for Families in Turku to Visit

Turku truly becomes a magical winter wonderland during the colder months of the 2026 season. Finding the best outdoor ice rinks for families in Turku is a top priority for locals. Gliding across the smooth ice provides a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh Finnish air together. Our guide helps you discover the perfect skating spots for your next family winter outing. You should explore our Turku winter travel guide 2026 to plan your entire stay properly. Many of these rinks offer modern facilities and great locations within the historic city center. Skating is a deeply rooted tradition that brings communities together during the dark winter days. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, these rinks provide something for everyone to enjoy.

Skating at the Iconic Parkki Artificial Ice Field

For practical details and last-minute changes, use City of Turku.

For the most up-to-date details, check Visit Turku before you go.

The Parkki artificial ice field is located very close to the Turku main railway station. This venue remains a favorite for families because the artificial ice stays frozen in mild weather. You can enjoy a very smooth surface even when the temperature rises slightly above freezing levels. The rink is equipped with powerful floodlights that make evening skating sessions very safe and bright. Parkki Field is perfect for young children who are just learning how to balance on skates.

The facility features warm changing rooms where you can put on your gear in comfort. Friendly staff members are always available to help visitors with questions about the ice conditions. You will often hear cheerful music playing through the large speakers surrounding the entire skating area. Most families choose this location because it offers a reliable experience throughout the whole winter season. The entrance fee is very affordable for both adults and children visiting the city in 2026.

You can find a small kiosk on the grounds that sells hot chocolate and snacks. Sipping a warm drink after a long skating session is a classic Finnish winter tradition. The rink usually opens in late November and continues to operate until the middle of March. This long season makes it one of the most dependable Winter Activities in Turku Finland for travelers. Make sure to check the daily opening hours before you plan your family visit.

The Scenic Kupittaa Skating Track Experience

The Kupittaa skating track offers a unique circular experience for skaters of all different ages. This 500-meter long track winds through the beautiful trees of the historic Kupittaa Park area. Families love the feeling of moving through a natural setting while staying on a maintained path. The track is wide enough for faster skaters to pass beginners without any major issues. Kupittaa Park is the largest and oldest urban park found in all of Finland.

Using the main skating track is completely free of charge for all visitors and local residents. This makes it an excellent choice for families who want to enjoy the outdoors on a budget. You will find plenty of benches along the track where you can take a short break. The atmosphere is very relaxed and encourages people to skate at their own comfortable pace. It is a great place to practice long-distance skating in a very safe environment.

Nearby you will find the Kupittaa Adventure Park which is a paradise for younger children. Many families combine a skating session with a visit to the playgrounds in the surrounding area. The park also has several indoor cafes where you can find a delicious warm lunch. Parking is readily available in the large lots situated around the edges of the park grounds. This location is easily accessible by public transport from any part of the Turku city center.

Neighborhood Natural Ice Rinks for Local Vibes

Turku maintains dozens of natural ice rinks in various neighborhoods during the peak of winter. These rinks are often located next to local schools or within quiet residential sports fields. Skating at these spots allows you to experience the daily life of people living in Turku. The ice quality depends on the natural temperature so check the weather before you go out. Natural rinks provide a cozy and authentic atmosphere for a quick afternoon skating session.

Areas like Runosmäki and Luolavuori have excellent fields that the city floods with water every year. These neighborhood spots are usually less crowded than the major central rinks during the weekend. You might even see a local ice hockey game happening on one side of the rink. Most of these locations have simple lighting that stays on until about nine in the evening. They are perfect for families who want a quiet space to practice their skating moves.

Maintenance teams from the city work hard to clear snow from these surfaces after every storm. You should look for the blue signs that indicate a public skating area is nearby. There are no entrance fees for using these smaller natural rinks throughout the winter season. Always remember to bring your own skates as these local fields do not have rentals. This is a great way to see different parts of the city while staying active.

Essential Gear and Safety for Family Skating

Proper gear is essential for ensuring that everyone has a safe and fun time on the ice. Children should always wear a certified safety helmet while they are practicing their skating skills. Warm gloves and thick socks are necessary to protect your hands and feet from the cold. Dressing in several thin layers helps you stay warm without getting too sweaty while you move. Safety first is the most important rule for any family heading out to the rinks.

If you do not own your own equipment you should look into renting winter sports equipment in Turku city. Many central locations like Parkki Field offer skate rentals in various sizes for children and adults. The prices for rentals are usually quite reasonable for a few hours of skating fun. Make sure the skates fit snugly to provide the best support for your ankles on the ice. Using dull blades can make skating much harder so ask for a fresh pair.

It is also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit for minor bumps. Learning how to fall correctly can prevent injuries for both the children and the parents. Most rinks have designated areas for beginners where they can use support frames for better balance. These frames are very helpful for toddlers who are stepping onto the ice for the first time. Take frequent breaks to ensure that nobody gets too tired or cold during the outing.

Frequently Asked Questions