Where to Play in the Snow and Ice Without Leaving Tampa Bay

Even though it doesn’t snow in Tampa, there are still some cool places to experience some chilly winter fun this holiday season! Play in the “snow”–without the accompany frigid temperatures–or take a whirl around and ice skating rink together. Here are a few places to see snow around town.

Winter Beach at the St. Pete Pier

November 20, 2021 -January 17, 2022

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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 Riverwalk. 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: Must-Visit Holiday Markets in Tampa Bay for Unique Gifts

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, 2021. 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.

Related: Celebrate the Holidays in Tampa Bay: Christmas Events, Lights, and More!

Places to See Snow Beyond Tampa Bay

Snowcat Ridge Alpine Snow Park – Dade City

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. Highlights include snow tubing (single, tandem, and family-style), 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.

Christmas at Gaylord Palms – Orlando

November 19, 2021 – January 2, 2022

Explore festive decor throughout the resort including 2 million twinkling lights and the 60ft Christmas tree, which comes alive during the nightly light show. Other festivities include Cirque: Spirit of Christmas holiday show, a Christmas tree trail and the new Mission: Save Christmas interactive experience featuring Elf. But one of our favorite activities is exploring the Snow Factory, where you can play in snow, go ice tubing side by side, and sip drinks at the snow bar. FYI: Some activities, including ice tubing, require tickets.

Wekiva Island Winter Wonderland – Orlando

December 3 – 25, 2021

Daily “snow” and a lineup of festive events like holiday movies and visits with Santa make this seasonal celebration worth the drive, especially if you love an Old Florida atmosphere. While the “snow” isn’t the real stuff, it’s still fun to pretend. The addition of a 20ft Christmas tree, new this year, enhances the festivities.