This Florida Hotel Just Opened an Outdoor Ice-skating Rink — and It’s Made of Real Ice

"Your winter-in-paradise fantasies can come true this year at The Ben West Palm, which recently opened an al fresco Winter Wonderland featuring Aspen-inspired chalets, four wintry food and beverage outlets, and an outdoor ice-skating rink. It’s the first (and only) outdoor ice-skating rink in South Florida, where wintertime temps hover between the mid-60s and upper 70s — and yes, the rink is made of real ice. Wondering how that works? It’s not Frozen-level sorcery: it’s Ice America’s state-of-the-art refrigeration system, which uses aluminum coils to continuously freeze the ice, making an ice-skating rink possible even in a state that will never see a naturally frozen lake or river. Part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, The Ben is known for one-of-a-kind experiences and unique events, and this tropical Winter Wonderland experience is no exception. Specialized lighting, music, and festive decor aim to make visitors feel as if they’ve stepped into a charming wintertime village, but with palm trees and the Intracoastal Waterway on the horizon instead of snow-capped mountains. “We are incredibly excited to bring this magical experience to the local community,” Bernardo Neto, the general manager of The Ben, said in a release provided to Travel + Leisure. “The Ben Hotel thrives on creating moments that are truly unexpected in South Florida, and this winter wonderland is no exception. From the real ice skating to the festive food and chalet-inspired ambiance, we are providing a space where families and friends can gather and make memories that will last a lifetime.” The Ben will also offer themed food and drinks inspired by cozy winter lodges, a VIP area, and a variety of seasonal events, parties, and family-friendly activities at the Winter Wonderland. The Winter Wonderland is open through March 1, 2025. Tickets cost $20 per adult and $10 per child aged four to 11 years old (children aged three and under are free) and include Winter Wonderland access, rink entry, and ice skate rentals. The rink accommodates up to 70 skaters per 90-minute session and is open to all ages. Buy tickets and VIP packages at thebenevents.com." - Skye Sherman Skye Sherman Skye Sherman is a freelance travel writer based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Aside from traveling, she's also a pilot, scuba diver, bookworm, and fourth-generation Floridian. Her work