The Ice-Skating Rink At The World’s Largest Grotto Is A Little-Known Iowa Winter Attraction

Are you in the mood to try something new this winter? Here's an idea for you if you are - did you know there's an ice skating rink at the world's largest man-made grotto? That's right, if you time it right, you can actually ice skate at the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa.

Ice skating. It's been a traditional wintertime activity for centuries, especially in cold climates where backyard ponds and nearby rivers regularly freeze over in the darkest months of the year.

Iowa is one of those places, and opportunities to ice skate abound throughout the state. But one of the best, least-known, most interesting skating rinks around is found here, at the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend.

Here's what the Grotto of the Redemption, the world's largest man-made grotto, looks like in the summer.

See that pond out in front of the Grotto? In summer, it's a calm, scenic place where birds swim that welcomes visitors to this shrine.

But in winter, it freezes solid and transforms into an ice rink!

Ice skating at the Grotto Skate Rink is weather-dependent, so the availability can vary. However, the typical season is from December through mid-March. Days of the week can vary as well; one of the best ways to make sure the ice rink is open is to call ahead of your visit.

The number to reach the Grotto Ice Rink is (515) 887-7465.

To stay up to date on ice conditions and skating hours, follow the Grotto Ice Rink on Facebook. To check admission prices and find other information about the activities and amenities offered here (like food and a warming house), visit the West Bend ice skating website. For even more winter fun, try a visit to one of these 12 winter attractions scattered throughout the state.