Las Vegas: Strap on those skates and go out for a spin

Even if it’s well above freezing in Las Vegas -- and odds are it will be -- winter-sports enthusiasts can lace up their skates and take to the ice along Las Vegas Boulevard.

The Venetian is once again offering skating, though on an artificial surface, through Jan. 6. The Cosmopolitan resort, meanwhile, is offering outdoor skating overlooking the Strip now through Jan. 20.

As part of the Venetian’s Winter in Venice festivities, a skating rink is installed in front of the resort beside its outdoor gondola rides. Half-hour skating sessions are available 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily for $14.95 a person. That includes skate rental. The hotel boasts that its skating surface, made from recyclable polymer, is environmentally friendly because it requires no refrigeration or electricity.

The Cosmopolitan has transformed its popular Boulevard Pool venue into a winter wonderland, with real ice replacing the pool’s warm water. Adding to the “New England at Christmastime” atmosphere are fire pits, picnic tables and Adirondack chairs. To take away the chill, s’mores and hot cocktails will be available for purchase.

The ice rink is open 3 p.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. on weekends. The longer hours also apply Dec. 24-Jan. 4, although the rink will be closed on New Year’s Eve. Themed events, such as “Date Skate” Mondays, at which scenes from nostalgic holiday movies are screened, add to the fun.

All-day skating costs $15 for Californians and other out-of-staters. Guests can bring their own skates or rent a pair for $5. There’s no charge to simply watch while warming up by the fire.

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