Quick Details about the Ice Castles
-
- Cost: $25 for adults, $17 for children ages 4-11 Monday-Thursday. $29 for adults and $22 for children ages 4-11 Friday-Sunday. Admission is free for children 3 and under.
- Hours: Hours of operation vary. The Ice Castles are usually open in the evenings on weekdays and from noon until night on weekdays.
- Season: The Ice Castles are weather dependent, typically opening in late January and closing in late February or early March. Check the website for the most up-to-date information.
Rising February forecasts may have you thinking we’ve seen the last of Midwest winter, but don’t be fooled — we’re still in for at least a few more weeks of chilly temperatures. Make the most of the season by taking a trip to the Ice Castles in Lake Geneva.
The Ice Castles are stunning outdoor fun for the entire family. Kids can race down icy slides and frozen passageways that are just big enough for adventurous adults to squeeze into and follow suit. Glowing ice caverns and tree groves make for great photo ops, and there are plenty of other exciting ice activities for all ages.
Here’s how to make the most of this frozen attraction:
Things to Do at the Ice Castles
- Get lost in a maze made completely of ice.
- Take a sleigh ride through a scenic winter wonderland.
- Crawl through ice tunnels and passageways to reach stunning ice caverns.
- Meet a snow queen and whimsical winter fairy.
- Snack on sweet treats like s’mores or hot cocoa (or hard cider for adults!).
- Snap plenty of photos of your kiddos as they play and explore the beautiful winter scenery.
- Celebrating a birthday or special occasion? Book an arctic alcove to make your Ice Castles experience truly magical.
Tips for Families when Visiting the Ice Castles
- Buy tickets online ahead of time when possible. On-site ticket availability is rare and there is a slight price increase. Purchasing your tickets ahead of time will also allow you to see the operating hours on the day you wish to visit.
- Bundle up! You won’t make it very far down the ice passages without a warm coat, sturdy boots, hats, scarves and mittens. Wear insulated clothing and snow pants if you plan to explore the ice slides and tunnels.
- Charge your phone before leaving. Cold weather conditions can drain the battery on electronic devices, and you will want to have plenty of juice to take family photos.
- Strollers and baby carriages are not allowed inside Ice Castles, but sleds are! Load the little ones onto a sled if they won’t be able to explore the entire attraction on their own.
Other Family-Friendly Fun near the Ice Castles
- Visit The Dancing Horses Theatre for amazing entertainment featuring talented trained and exotic animals.
- Indulge at the nearby turf.smokehouse, a Clubhouse restaurant at the Geneva National Resort that is not to be missed.
- Planning a weekend trip or an even longer getaway? Check out our family vacation guide to Lake Geneva.
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.
