Where To Skate, Ski And Sled In And Around Decatur

Feeling inspired by the excitement of the Winter Games? You don’t have to travel far to get in on the seasonal spirit. Around Decatur, 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

Decatur Civic Center Ice Skating Rink

Address: 1 Gary K. Anderson Plaza, Decatur, IL 62523

Phone: (217) 422-7300

Details: The Decatur Ice Center at the Decatur Civic Center offers public ice skating sessions on its indoor arena ice during the fall and winter months with admission and skate rental available. Sessions are scheduled regularly, and the space also hosts special skating events and stick-and-puck times for skaters and hockey players alike.

Nelson Center Ice Rink & Pool

Address: 1601 N 5th St, Springfield, IL 62702

Phone: (217) 753-2800

Details: Nelson Center Ice Rink & Pool features two indoor ice rinks with public skating sessions, figure skating, and hockey programs throughout the winter season. It’s about a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Decatur and serves as a year-round ice skating destination for all ages and skill levels.

🎿 Skiing, Snowboarding & Tubing — Day Trips

Chestnut Mountain Resort

Address: 8700 W Chestnut Mountain Rd, Galena, IL 61036

Phone: (800) 397-1320

Details: Chestnut Mountain Resort offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing with snowmaking across runs overlooking the Mississippi River. It’s about a 3 hour 30 minute drive from Decatur and is one of the closest major ski destinations.

Paoli Peaks

Address: 2798 W County Rd 25 S, Paoli, IN 47454

Phone: (812) 723-4696

Details: Paoli Peaks features skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing with terrain for beginners through intermediate riders. It’s roughly a 4 hour drive from Decatur and makes a solid winter day trip or weekend getaway.

☃️ Outdoor Play & Sledding Spots

When snow settles across central Illinois, parks and gentle hills around Decatur become favorite places for sledding and relaxed winter play. Checking city park updates before heading out can help ensure that conditions are safe and accessible.

Decatur spots to consider:

• Hess Park has open green space and gradual natural slopes that can work well for sledding and snow play when winter weather cooperates. Its neighborhood setting and wide layout make it a convenient in-town option for getting outside and enjoying a snowy afternoon without traveling far. (Source: Decatur Park District)

Further outdoors:

• Rock Springs Conservation Area — This scenic area northwest of Decatur offers rolling terrain and natural hills that can work well for sledding and winter exploring when snow accumulates, and it is about a 30 minute drive from Decatur.

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

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