Cool Places to Play in The Snow and Ice Without Leaving Tampa Bay
Even though it doesn’t snow here in Tampa Bay, there are still some cool places to experience some chilly winter fun this holiday season!
Here are a few places around town to check out if you want to play in the snow or take a whirl around an outdoor ice-skating rink.
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Snowcat Ridge Alpine Snow Park
Select dates November 14, 2021-March 27, 2022
If you thought snow tubing in Florida was impossible, think again! Snowcat Ridge boasts a 60-foot tall, 400 foot-long snow tubing hill. Featuring single, tandem, and family-style snow tubing, nightly music, and a light show visible throughout the park. Guests can also enjoy the Artic Igloo play area and an outdoor ice-skating ribbon. The Alpine Village has a variety of food and drink offerings and new this year, guests can rent private igloos from the Eskimo Outpost.
*We are aware of the accident that occurred on Friday, December 24th at Snowcat Ridge and advise anyone planning to attend to be aware and take caution. Jon Pianki, Snowcat Ridge Marketing Director, released the following statement: “At Snowcat Ridge, the safety of our guests is always a top priority. Our onsite safety and security team will continue to work closely with the Pasco Fire Rescue.”
Winter Beach at the St. Pete Pier
November 20, 2021 -January 17, 2022
The St. Pete Pier is decorated and dazzling for the holidays and of course, there’s the Bending Arc that lights up year-round! Go ice-skating, play in the snow, and meet Santa at St. Pete Pier’s inaugural Christmas event. Didn’t get a chance to meet Santa in person? Write him a letter and pop it into the Winter Beach North Pole Mailbox.
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
November 19, 2021-January 2, 2022
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa. The park sparkles with lights and festive holiday decorations. Guests can skate along downtown Tampa’s only outdoor ice rink while taking in views of the Tampa River Walk. The Shops of Winter Village will feature five boutiques from local markets and the Icicle Craft Kitchen of Winter Village will serve up some seasonal holiday treats.
Related: See what’s NEW this year at Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park in Tampa
Hunsader Farms Country Christmas
December 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, and 19
Enjoy an old-fashioned country Christmas! Go snow tubing down an 80-foot slide filled with real snow! Enjoy other activities such as hayrides, train rides, campfires, Christmas music, snow tubing, and a display Christmas village. Watch Christmas movies on the big screen, say hello to Santa, and warm up with hot chocolate and s’mores.
Snow Fest at Straub Park
December 18, 2021
Snow is coming to St. Pete! There will be toboggan slides for adults and children, inflatables, arts and crafts tents, food trucks, and more. The $5 wristband includes all activities and can be purchased online or at an City recreation center beginning Monday, November 29, through Thursday, December 16. Wristbands can also be purchased day of the event.
Snow Days at The Florida Aquarium
December 26, 2021-January 2, 2022
Snow is in the forecast at The Florida Aquarium! The frosty festivities of Snow Days are included with membership or general admission. Join in on an epic battle where you’ll throw snowballs at the pollution monsters plaguing our oceans, rock out at the Winter Wonderland dance party, and participate in gloved hands-on interactives experiences. Visitors may enjoy Snow Days with extended hours at the Aquarium all week long from 9:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.