Where To Skate, Ski And Sled In And Around Champaign

Feeling inspired by the excitement of the Winter Games? You don’t have to travel far to get in on the seasonal spirit. Around Champaign, you’ll find places where families can lace up skates, enjoy indoor winter fun, or plan easy day trips to nearby skiing, tubing or sledding spots. Whether you’re looking to stay close to home or head out for a weekend adventure, these ideas can help you make the most of the season. Just be sure to double-check hours, weather conditions and reservation details before heading out.

⛸️ Ice Skating & Indoor Winter Fun

University of Illinois Ice Arena

Address: 406 E Armory Ave, Champaign, IL 61820

Phone: (217) 333-2212

Details: The University of Illinois Ice Arena offers public skating sessions, lessons, and hockey programs at a full indoor rink. Located right on campus, it’s the most convenient place for regular ice time in Champaign.

Bloomington Ice Center

Address: 201 S Roosevelt Ave, Normal, IL 61761

Phone: (309) 434-2737

Details: Bloomington Ice Center offers public skating sessions, learn-to-skate classes, and hockey programs on its indoor rink. It’s about a 45- to 55-minute drive from Champaign, making it a solid additional choice for ice skating when you’re up for a short drive.

🎿 Skiing, Snowboarding & Tubing — Day Trips

Perfect North Slopes

Address: 19074 Perfect Ln, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025

Phone: (812) 537-3754

Details: Perfect North offers skiing, snowboarding, and extensive snow tubing lanes with reliable snowmaking. It’s about a 2 to 3 hour drive from Champaign, depending on traffic, and is one of the most popular Midwest winter sports destinations.

Cascade Mountain

Address: W10441 Cascade Mountain Rd, Portage, WI 53901

Phone: (608) 742-5588

Details: Cascade Mountain features downhill skiing, snowboarding, and a dedicated tubing hill with long runs and lift service. It’s roughly a 3-hour drive from Champaign and works well for a full winter day trip.

☃️ Outdoor Play & Sledding Spots

After a snowfall in Champaign, local parks and open hills become popular gathering places for sledding and winter fun. Community green spaces stay active during snowy stretches.

Champaign spots to consider:

• Hessel Park has gentle grassy slopes that can work for sledding when snow conditions allow. Its central location and open layout make it a convenient in-town option for winter play. (Source: Champaign Park District)

Further outdoors:

• Allerton Park & Retreat Center — Open meadows and rolling hills here are great for longer sled runs when snow sticks. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Champaign and offers a scenic natural setting along the Sangamon River.

Bundle up, stay safe and have fun wherever winter takes you!

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