New Waterfront Ice Rink Set to Open at San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf

San Francisco to Debut Waterfront Ice Rink at Fisherman’s Wharf

San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf is about to welcome a new winter attraction: an outdoor ice rink along its famous waterfront. The venue is expected to open on either Sunday or Monday, adding seasonal excitement for both locals and tourists at one of the city’s most visited destinations.

Bringing Ice Skating to the Waterfront

The project is led by Peter Mott, CEO of On Ice Rinks. As crews prepared for the opening on Friday—clearing excess ice and installing protective covers for the rink’s pipes—anticipation grew for what will become a new focal point at the Wharf. Fisherman’s Wharf, known for its restaurants, boat tours, and scenic views, is gaining another activity for visitors to enjoy during the upcoming holiday season.

A Longstanding Vision Realized

For Mott, bringing an ice rink to San Francisco’s waterfront has been a dream. His company has operated San Mateo On Ice for 16 years, and expanding into the city was always a goal. "I always wanted to do a rink in the city, the city is my favorite place, we live in Napa but this is our town, this is our city," Mott said.

Mott recalled San Francisco’s previous holiday ice rink at Embarcadero Center, which closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Missing the presence of outdoor ice skating, he sought another opportunity, ideally along the waterfront. "When they closed I thought well, the city really needs another rink somewhere, but it needs to be on the water, it should always be on the waterfront because this is iconic San Francisco right here," he added.

About a year ago, Mott approached the Port of San Francisco with his proposal. After what he described as "a lot of blood, sweat and tears and effort," the project is now nearing completion.

Supporting Local Businesses and Tourism

The introduction of the waterfront ice rink is welcomed by local business leaders. Tony Roumph, managing director of the Argonaut Hotel and Blue Mermaid Restaurant on Jefferson Street, noted that Fisherman’s Wharf was hit hard during the pandemic. New attractions, he believes, can help strengthen the area’s economy by drawing more visitors. "It’s definitely been better in 2025 and this year in ’26, but we still have a ways to go. So, seeing the sky wheel and the ice rink is a huge win for us in the local business community," Roumph said.

What to Expect: Opening and Features

Skate rentals will be included with admission once the rink opens, according to Mott. The team is focused on bringing both energy and a festive spirit to the waterfront, particularly during the quieter winter period. "And we’re bring this to the city and the community here at Fisherman’s Wharf, to bring hopefully more energy during the slower time of the year," Mott said.

The rink is scheduled to remain open through January 18, giving locals and visitors several weeks to enjoy ice skating beside San Francisco Bay. The new rink joins other recent attractions, such as the sky wheel, in helping to revitalize Fisherman’s Wharf and offering new activities throughout the holiday season.

Conclusion

As preparations near completion, San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf is set to welcome a new chapter in its storied history with the addition of the waterfront ice rink. The skating experience promises to add vibrancy and community engagement to this iconic city setting throughout the winter months.

Source: kron4.com.